- Emirates has added the new Premium Economy Class to more flights departing the U.S. starting this spring.
- There are also larger screens for entertainment, and more comfortable and spacious seats.
- It’s possible to fall asleep on a late-night flight.
The challenge of sleeping in an economy class seat is always a big one. I’ve been on several redeye overnight flights. I know how hard it can be to sleep with the seat belt fastened in a small space. When I woke on a redeye plane feeling refreshed and re-energized, I knew I had done something right. Emirates I did something right
Airlines are notorious for blurring the line between first and economy class, with different creature comforts. Now, Emirates—a flagship carrier of the United Arab Emirates—unveiled its own version of “premium economy” cabin with more leg room, upgraded dining, and a more enjoyable economy experience. This upgraded version of economy is ideal for those who want a premium flight experience without having to pay the high price of first class.
This upgrade is only available on Emirates New York to Europe routes. These include flights from Newark, New Jersey, (EWR) to Athens Greece (ATH). Travelers can either stay in Athens for a few days, or connect with another European destination. Or, they can continue with Emirates on to Dubai.
The cabin design, the dining options and the personalized service are praised by travelers as being among the best products for premium economy on the market.
The Emirates cabin crew was very friendly and helpful during the boarding process. They introduced us to our seat and cabin and were attentive while describing the flight service.
At 30,000 feet, the magic of the cabin was continued with the introduction of meal service. A multi-course meal rivaling a meal at a Michelin-starred eatery was paired perfectly with the 2012 Château Fombrauge from the airline’s ample onboard wine cellar.
After a satisfying meal, I continued my flight by watching “Wicked” on the 13.3 inch high-definition display. It looked and sounded fantastic. The built-in Bluetooth worked flawlessly, delivering crystal-clear audio through my noise-cancelling headphone.
Skywards, Emirates’ loyalty program that is free to join, offers members complimentary Wi-Fi. Although I had no intention of working or using social media on the flight, the Wi Fi was useful to communicate with family and friends about the flight.
It was time to rest as “Wicked’s” credits began to roll. My Apple Watch told me I had been asleep for four hours. Most surprising of all: I wasn’t even seated in the coveted window seat where I could lay against the wall—I was in the middle section, in a row of four seats.
Emirates’ premium economy was designed in-house by a team of designers based in Dubai with two main goals: enhanced comfort and modern design. The wood paneling and cream-colored leather seat with generous 40 inch pitch and footrests, along with the calf rest, provide a spacious, relaxing flight experience, says Matthew Jones, Emirates V.P. In a T+L statement, the United States said that they were introducing new seats.
Both sides of the cabin have curtains, which block out excess light, noise and interruptions coming from the galley.
The premium economy class is a great option for those who want something in-between the first and business class of Emirates. The premium economy option allows travelers to arrive at their destinations rested, comfortable and within a budget.
According to Google Flight data, the average cost of the Newark-to Athens route is $12,000 for first class and $4450 for business. The premium economy version costs only $1480, as per T+L. Some passengers book economy tickets as low as $674 and can upgrade using miles or cash.
The Newark to Athens service is a luxurious option for a part of Europe with fewer flights than major European capitals like London or Madrid.
When I was in Athens on vacation, I went to the Four Seasons Astir Palace Hotel Athens which is a short distance from the Athens Airport. After my final dinner, at Aigli Zappeiou, we spontaneously danced at a summer concert series. One of the best parts of my trip was the flight itself, and falling into a blissful sleep at 30,000 feet.
