American Airlines is to offer premium economy on its international widebody fleet.
Launching in late 2016, the new product will be located directly behind business class.
American said the benefits will include more legroom; wider seats; priority-check-in and boarding; checked baggage allowance; amenity kits; enhanced meal service; complimentary spirits, beer and wine; personal on-demand entertainment; and noise-reducing headphones.
“Travelers want more choice when they fly and have unique preferences depending on each trip. 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,” said Andrew Nocella, American’s chief marketing officer.
The first aircraft to be fitted with premium economy will be a B787-9, which will feature business class, three rows of premium economy seating in a 2-3-2 configuration, Main Cabin Extra and Main Cabin (economy). Main Cabin Extra will offer up to six inches of additional leg room.
Premium Economy will also be installed on American's A350, which is scheduled to arrive in 2017. The product will also be fitted on to all B777-300ERs, B777-200ERs, B787-8s and A330s over the next three years.
The B767-300s will not be retrofitted with the new cabin as they are scheduled for retirement "in the coming years".