American Airlines announced this morning that it will add a new Premium Economy cabin to its international widebody fleet beginning in late 2016. The launch will coincide with the arrival of the airline’s 787-9 fleet. According to American, the airline “will also add Premium Economy to all Boeing 777-300ERs, 777-200ERs, 787-8s and Airbus A330s over the next three years.” Notably, this new product will not replace American’s current Main Cabin Extra offering which includes extra legroom in the main cabin on domestic and international flights. American does not plan to add a Premium Economy cabin to its 767-300ER fleet which will be retired over the next several years.
American’s new Premium Economy will offer new amenities like extra legroom and wider seats with footrests. Other enhancements will include enhanced dining, noise reducing headphones, AC and USB power at each seat, personal on-demand entertainment, and priority boarding. Premium economy customers will also be able to check two bags free of charge.
American Airlines Premium Economy – My Take
I’m honestly excited to see American add this true enhancement to the international travel experience. Delta has been rumored to have product of its own under consideration, and I actually expected them to be the first U.S. airline out of the gate with this. It’s good to see American getting out front on this and doing something positive for the passenger experience.
-MJ, December 9, 2015
