Air New Zealand increases Premium Economy
Air New Zealand is predicting significant growth in premium travel, specifically Premium Economy, with its new fleet of Boeing 777-300 aircraft to have 39% more seats in this class than on its 777-200 aircraft and 28% more than on its 747-400 fleet.
There has been continuing demand for Premium Economy since its introduction in 2005 and Air New Zealand believe it’s new ‘Spaceseat’ will revolutionise the cabin providing unequalled flexibility and privacy through the angle of the seats.
‘This is a game changing product for Premium Economy which will have our competitors playing catch-up for years’ says Ed Sims, Air New Zealand group general manager International airline. “Already Boeing has indicated they’re interested in the seats as a Business Class option for their 737 range.”
The 340 seat 777-300 aircraft will be configured with 246 in Economy, 50 in Premium Economy and 44 in Business Premier. The current 777-200 aircraft seats 304 passengers with 242 in Economy, 36 in Premium Economy and 26 in Business Premier.
Premium Economy in the 777-300 will be priced similarly to today’s airfares, starting from a third more than a standard Economy fare. Full airfare details will be released when it goes on sale from late April.