Big things are happening at Air India. Following recent news that the airline has signed letters of intent with Airbus and Boeing to acquire 70 widebodies and 400 single-aisle aircraft, it is now introducing a fourth travel class: premium economy. With this move the airline becomes the first and only Indian carrier to offer four aircraft cabin classes: first, business, premium economy, and economy.
Air India’s premium economy customers will be able to check-in at dedicated fast-track airport counters, where they will also be given priority tags to attach to their check-in baggage, and they will also be invited to board the aircraft ahead of the economy-class passengers.
On board the aircraft, guests will enjoy a separate, spacious cabin with wider seats. The premium economy cabin on Air India’s Boeing 777-200LR aircraft is fitted with 48 leather-upholstered, memory foam seats that are 19in-wide, with 38in of pitch, and 5in of recline. adjustable leg rests and footrests, and winged headrests.
Air India has opened sale for the Premium Economy cabin, for travel starting 15th May, 2023, initially available to customers travelling on select routes operated by its fleet of Boeing 777-200LR aircraft, specifically the Bengaluru to San Francisco, Mumbai to San Francisco, and Mumbai to New York.
Campbell Wilson, CEO and MD of Air India, said of the new cabin: “The popularity of premium economy has grown among travellers around the world, as people are increasingly opting for upgraded, yet affordable flying experiences. We are delighted to introduce a distinctive premium economy experience for our customers on select flights for now, with a plan to extend it to many more routes soon, as we rapidly expand and modernise our fleet.
“This is another step forward in our sincere, ongoing effort to transform Air India into a modern, global carrier of world-class products and service standards,” he added.
Premium economy customers will also receive a TUMI amenity kit (specially designed for Air India) containing a pair of flight socks, an eye mask, Malin+Goetz lip moisturiser, a pen, and slippers. Customers will also be loaned noise-cancelling headphones for use during flight.
There are some onboard dining benefits too. Customers will be greeted on board Air India’s premium economy class with a welcome drink served on a silver tray, and a menu card detailing a choice of three meal options for the main course, served in a fine chinaware casserole, accompanied by an appetiser and dessert. The drinks menu includes a selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
