Lufthansa has unveiled a new long-haul premium economy class which will be available to passengers from December and is already on sale.
The seats offer 50% more room than in economy and recline up to 130 degrees – described by Lufthansa as “the best recline in the industry” in its class.
The German carrier aims to install the seats on its entire fleet of 106 long-haul aircraft within 12 months.
Lufthansa has previously resisted installing premium economy seats despite the intermediary cabins becoming common.
The carrier’s director of premium economy launch management, Annette Mann, said: “Previously we had the feeling it was not the right time.” She added: “It adds to complexity and gives less flexibility if you don’t fit the whole fleet.”
Lufthansa premium economy passengers will also be allowed a second piece of check-in baggage weighing up to 23kg, will receive a welcome drink and amenity kit, and eat from an “upgraded” menu.
Seats will be priced at about one-third of the difference between Lufthansa economy and business class fares.
The carrier will install the seats first throughout its Boeing 747-800 fleet, completing the refurbishment by December – making premium economy available on all flights to Bangalore, Hong Kong, Beijing, Tokyo and Seoul, and westwards to Buenos Aires, Washington and Chicago.
The number of premium economy seats on flights will vary from 21 on Lufthansa’s A330s to 52 on its Airbus A380s.
Lufthansa UK general manager Christian Schindler said: “The new class will be ideal for both leisure travellers on a higher budget and business travellers who may be restricted from flying Business Class.”