Virgin Blue Airlines launched its first flights with Premium Economy seats on Saturday (15 March).
The first three rows of red leather seats are converted from a 3x3 to a 2x2 (window and aisle) configuration, with what used to be the middle seat folding down to provide additional work space or a personal cocktail table. Average seat pitch is 34 inches (86cm), and moveable inner armrests can shift across to increase the overall seat width.
Premium Economy passengers will also benefit from priority check-in and boarding, complimentary access to the lounge, an increased checked baggage allowance of 32kg and fully flexible and fully refundable fares.
The product is available on all Virgin Blue”s Boeing 737s, and will also be made available on its Embraer E-Jets.
”Launching a premium offering is another example of Virgin Blue”s continual evolution and we are confident the introduction of Premium Economy will meet the discerning needs of many travellers,” said Virgin Blue chief executive, Brett Godfrey.
The airline says the new service is part of its ongoing New World Carrier strategy aimed at catering to the needs of contemporary business travellers.
Virgin Blue Premium Economy is on sale now across the Australian domestic network.