In a marked shift from its US competitors, American Airlines has unveiled a completely new premium economy design for its long-haul aircraft.
It is a move away from simply adding more legroom to existing economy seating along with extra perks like free drinks and priority boarding.
It is more in line with the enhanced economy offerings on international carriers which have dedicated premium economy seating distinct from coach class, said Andrew Nocella, American chief marketing officer.
"Premium Economy is offered today by many premier carriers around the world. We studied those offerings and developed a world-class product with larger seats, more legroom, improved entertainment and upscale headphones and amenity kits," Nocella said.
"Our customers tell us they want a class of service between Business Class and Main Cabin, and this feedback provided the genesis for our new Premium Economy service."
The new Premium Economy cabin will initially be added to long-haul widebody aircraft that operate international routes with American’s new Boeing 787-9 planes the first to be retrofitted.
It will be install in a 2-3-2 configuration on the 787-9s and expected to enter service in late 2016.
