Yesterday, I wrote about how Emirates had stated to sell lounge access to Skywards members. The airline, just like most of the other Gulf Carriers, has been struggling financially because of the slump in oil prices. The airline has been trying to find new sources of revenue, and selling their lounge access is one of their ideas. Well, it seems that they have another idea in the works.

Emirates Premium Economy?

Emirates Premium Economy might be happening very soon. According to Traveller.co.au, the airline is considering a premium economy cabin before the end of 2018. The airline’s president Tim Clark, has been interested in the idea. He considers it to be a paradigm shift in the current way Gulf Carriers do business. With the increase in Premium economy offerings on various carriers, namely US carriers. Airlines are starting to take notice of this otherwise niche option.

AA Premium Economy (VftW)

AA Premium Economy (VftW)

What is Premium Economy and What to Expect

Premium economy is a class of service between Business and Coach. Many airlines, such as American and Delta, offer seats similar to those offered on domestic US routes. These seats resemble first class, but with a bit more recline and some form of footrest. Many airlines also offer enhanced meal service, champagne and an amenity kit. This new market has been growing over the past years, as leisure travelers want to splurge a bit more, and business travelers are willing to take the small downgrade. I have flow British Airways premium economy once, many years ago, and it was a good upgrade to coach.

Emirates A380

Emirates, I expect, will offer a similar product. Their seats will be similar to those already found in other products. I would not be surprised if they bling-out their seats just like they do their other premium cabins. I would not, however, expect them to offer lounge access unless you purchase it. Nor do I expect them to allow those passengers to the premium bar on their A380s.

AA Premium Economy (VftW)

Landing Thoughts

I am very happy that Emirates is considering premium economy. The airline offers a very good premium product, and it would make me happy to see the airline add PE. Many people cannot afford the usually expensive tickets on Business, so PE is a good compromise. I hope to see the airline add these seats in the near future. It would be interesting to see how they format their planes, as the current upper deck is only premium cabins on their 3-class A380s.

What do you think? Would you fly Emirates if they had a Premium Economy product? Have you ever flown another premium economy product? How was it? Let us know!

Images from Wikimedia Commons or View from the Wing