Quantas introduced it new Premium Economy seats on all of their aircrafts. In an effort to cover costs are airlines just limiting cheap seats and marketing new and expensive ones? Below is the press release.

Qantas Executive General Manager, Mr John Borghetti, said the introduction of Premium Economy offers customers a new choice in long haul international travel.

“Qantas Premium Economy offers extra space and comfort and enhanced levels of service,” Mr. Borghetti said.

“We have invested significantly in developing this cabin, which is being progressively installed across our B747-400 fleet and will be available on every Qantas A380.” The first aircraft with Premium Economy, B747-400 registration VH-OJK, enters service tomorrow and will operate QF127 from Sydney to Hong Kong.

The cabin features 32 seats in a two-four-two configuration. It is initially available on select services between Sydney and London and Sydney and Johannesburg. Additional routes will be added as the product is progressively installed.

Seats in the new cabin have been on sale since November 2007, for travel on select B747 services from 1 April 2008. Return fares from Sydney start from:

Hong Kong $1996 *
Johannesburg $4246
Singapore $2220
London $4611
Bangkok $2580 * (from 16 May ex Melbourne and 3 August ex Sydney)

“Our forward bookings indicate very promising levels of demand and our research suggests the
product is very popular among Economy travellers who are attracted by the extra benefits and
features that Premium Economy offers,” Mr Borghetti said.

Mr Borghetti said Qantas Premium Economy offers:

The world’s best Premium Economy recline and leg room – nine inch seat
recline and up to 42 inch seat pitch;

Extra wide, 19.5 inch seat designed by Qantas Creative Director Marc Newson and manufactured by Recaro;

Ergonomic cushioning and an adjustable headrest;

Only airline with in-arm touch screen video monitor;

Multiport jack with USB (A380 only) and RJ45 ports;

Neil Perry inspired menu with premium wines; and

A self-service bar offering a selection of refreshments throughout the flight.

“The new service also includes priority check-in, dedicated cabin crew, an additional hand baggage allowance, and priority boarding and disembarkation,” Mr Borghetti said.

“The installation of the cabin is being undertaken by Qantas Engineering at its Avalon maintenance facility in Victoria.” The next three aircraft offering Premium Economy are scheduled to commence operation later this month.

Issued by Qantas Corporate Communication (Q3731) Media Enquiries: Lloyd Quartermaine T: 029691 4058