Emirates Wins APAC Best Premium Economy And Opens Emirates World In Manila

When it comes to designing luxurious premium cabins, it seems the large Middle Eastern carriers lead the way, often sparing no expense to develop new concepts, materials, menus and service levels. When Emirates debuted its Premium Economy cabin in 2022, it ushered in a step change of what premium economy could look like, challenging many other airlines' business class layouts.

An award-winning premium economy cabin

In November, Emirates was crowned the Best Premium Economy Class in the 2024 Business Traveller Asia-Pacific Awards. The award comes as no surprise to anyone who has traveled in the cabin and adds to the more than 20 awards and recognitions Emirates has received this year, including seven accolades at the Skytrax World Airlines Awards in June, including one for the Best Premium Economy Class.

This latest achievement comes as Emirates continues its global multi-billion-dollar retrofit program. This program will see more than 200 Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 cabins fitted with premium economy, along with other cabin refreshments, ensuring all passengers can travel in the utmost comfort for many years to come.

Emirates Divisional Vice President Australasia Barry Brown said that having launched Premium Economy just two years ago in Sydney, seeing it receive this recognition from voters in the Business Traveler Asia-Pacific Awards is brilliant. He added that it has garnered global praise from customers and industry experts, with multiple award wins reflecting its outstanding performance and excellence.

"We currently serve Australia with close to 3,200 weekly seats in Premium Economy, having doubled the product deployment on flights to Melbourne earlier this year, giving passengers greater choice and flexibility while maintaining Australia's position as one of the key markets served with our best-in-class seats."

What makes the Emirates Premium Economy cabin a winner

As the pictures highlight, the Emirates Premium Economy cabin offers a signature experience with plush cream leather seats and wood veneer touches. Passengers also enjoy a generous baggage allowance and an exceptional dining experience, attended to by a team of Emirates cabin crew dedicated to Premium Economy passengers.

The award-winning cabin currently features flights to 19 destinations globally, including Asia-Pacific routes to Sydney, Melbourne, Auckland, Christchurch, Singapore, Osaka, Tokyo Narita and Tokyo Haneda. In its two years in service, the cabin has exceeded expectations, with more than 90,000 passengers flying to and from Australia opting for the premium experience.

Emirates opens first Emirates World in Southeast Asia

On Thursday, Emirates launched its first Emirates World retail concept in Southeast Asia, introducing the fully immersive experience in the Philippines' capital of Manila. Emirates has launched these reimagined retail spaces in Hong Kong, Dubai, London and Nairobi, with more stores set to progressively roll out to key markets over the next three years.

Emirates is investing approximately $27.2 million in these retail spaces, where visitors can browse a curated selection of Emirates-branded merchandise and travel accessories. A highlight of the Manila Emirates World Store is the Emirates A380 onboard lounge display, which gives customers a first-hand look at the premium touches that define Emirates' products in the sky.

The Emirates World retail store is part of the airline's broader strategy to get closer to its customers as they plan their travel and create an elevated experience consistent with the airline's brand. The Manila store was inaugurated by Emirates' Deputy President and Chief Commercial Officer Adnan Kazim, who said:

"The new Emirates World Store in Manila is designed to serve as a one-stop shop where customers can explore Emirates' best-in-class products and services, and provides visitors a glimpse of our onboard hospitality and excellence, ensuring the bar is set high when it comes to retail experiences both in the Philippines and across our global network."

The store is also equipped with smart technologies that set it apart from conventional travel spaces, featuring an interactive self-service screen that allows customers to quickly browse flight options, check availability and more. Emirates first operated in Manila in 1990 and currently serves the Philippines with 28 weekly flights. Emirates also has an interline agreement with Philippine Airlines (PAL) that allows PAL customers to connect to nine international points via Dubai.

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KLM Invests In Customer And Future With New Boeing 787-9

The new aircraft will be introduced to KLM’s fleet in October 2015

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines will introduce the Boeing 787-9 to its fleet in October 2015. This new aircraft will add a quieter and more fuel-efficient experience to ensure the airline’s passengers an unforgettable and comfortable journey.

“The Boeing 787-9 enables KLM to offer passengers even more comfort and privacy,” said Pieter Elbers, President & CEO KLM. “KLM has chosen to add specific improvements to this special aircraft, which make it unique among other 787s. All these details add up to ensure our passengers can experience a new way to fly.”

Among the most important features of the Boeing 787-9 are lower fuel consumption, the new World Business Class (WBC) and Economy Class seats, a state-of-the-art inflight entertainment system and Wi-Fi for all passengers.

Lower fuel consumption

The Boeing 787-9 is equipped with highly fuel-efficient engines, which will reduce CO2 emissions by at least 20%.

The aircraft is part of KLM’s program of fleet investment, which began with the introduction of the new World Business Class in the Boeing 747. This was followed by entirely new World Business Class and Economy Class interiors in the Boeing 777-200 and the phased introduction of new Boeing 777-300s. From December 2015, KLM will continue its fleet renewal with the deployment of the Embraer 175 and 190.

New flight mode

The interior design of the Boeing 787-9 maximizes comfort and privacy for passengers, while maintaining KLM’s aesthetic and brand values.

KLM’s Boeing 787-9 is fitted with onboard Wi-Fi, marking the launch of KLM Wi-Fi, which was tested in earlier trials. It will now be possible to use the internet, email and other online services onboard using laptops, tablets and mobile phones.

Larger windows, a higher cabin pressure and special LED-lighting further enhance the unique flight experience ensuring passengers arrive more rested at their destinations.

Luxury personal space in World Business Class

KLM has chosen the newest full-flat World Business Class seat for its Boeing 787-9s. The position of the new seats in the cabin and various design decisions ensure passengers can enjoy as much privacy as possible during the flight. Every World Business Class seat in the Boeing 787-9 has direct access to the aisle, a new feature for the Boeing 787-9.

Warmer colors – with different shades for every seat – and a large storage space ensure ultimate comfort and more personal room for passengers. Large, soft pillows and luxurious new blankets give the new World Business Class a warm and welcoming mood. Each seat is fitted with a 16” screen. There is also the option of a dual-screen experience, which allows passengers to game or chat using the handset while watching a film.

Economy Class

The seats in Economy Class offer passengers extra comfort. The back of the seat can recline 40% further and all passengers have access to a power socket where they can recharge their mobile equipment. The inflight entertainment system has been renewed and extended with a larger, 11” screen, intuitive HD-quality touchscreens, interactive 3D maps, and the option to communicate via Seat Chat with fellow passengers who are not seated nearby. The inflight entertainment system provides access to more than 150 films and 200 TV programs in 12 languages, including a large number of local films.

About KLM

KLM Royal Dutch Airlines was founded in 1919, making it the world’s oldest airline still operating under its original name. In 2004, Air France and KLM merged to form AIR FRANCE KLM. The merger produced the strongest European airline group based on two powerful brands and hubs – Amsterdam Airport Schiphol and Paris Charles de Gaulle. Retaining its own identity, the group focuses on three core businesses: passenger transport, cargo and aircraft maintenance.

In the Netherlands, KLM comprises the core of the KLM Group, which further includes KLM Cityhopper, transavia.com and Martinair. KLM serves all its destinations using a modern fleet and employs over 32,000 people around the world. KLM is a leader in the airline industry, offering reliable operations and customer-oriented products resulting from its policy of enthusiasm and sustainable innovation.

Air France-KLM and its partners Delta Air Lines and Alitalia operate the biggest trans-Atlantic joint-venture with over 250 daily flights.

KLM is a member of the global SkyTeam airline alliance, offering customers an extensive worldwide network. The KLM network connects the Netherlands to every important economic region in the world and, as such, serves as a powerful driver for the economy.

Air France's New Cabins Land In Los Angeles And Washington, DC

New Business, Premium Economy and Economy class cabins are now available

from 16 Air France destinations

Air France customers traveling from Los Angeles International Airport and Washington, DC Dulles International Airport (IAD) can now enjoy the airline’s new Business cabin, a cocoon in the sky, plus fully-updated seats in Premium Economy and Economy class. The gradual entry into service of the new “BEST” product-equipped Boeing 777s allows Air France to serve these additional North-American destinations with the new cabins up to seven times-weekly, effective immediately throughout the 2015 summer and fall season. Ultimately, 44 Boeing 777s, the heart of the Air France long-haul fleet, will be equipped with the new products with updates to all cabins.

Los Angeles (LAX) Flight Times (local time)

AF069: leaves Los Angeles at 18:25, arriving the following day at Paris-Charles de Gaulle at 14:15.

AF072: leaves Paris-Charles de Gaulle at 13:40, arriving in Los Angeles at 16:20.

Washington Dulles (IAD) Flight Times (local time)

AF027: leaves Washington, DC at 21:30, arriving the following day at Paris-Charles de Gaulle at 11:00.
AF026: leaves Paris-Charles de Gaulle at 16:55, arriving in Washington at 19:25.

Currently, 16 destinations are being served by 20 Boeing 777s equipped with Air France’s new long-haul cabins this summer, including:

·        North America - New York*; Toronto; Vancouver; Washington, DC; Los Angeles.

·        South America - Sao Paulo.

·        Africa – Douala; Malabo; Yaoundé.

·        Middle East - Dubaï*.

·        Asia – Guangzhou; Jakarta*; Shanghai; Singapore*; Tokyo-Haneda*; Wuhan.

*the new La Première suites are available on service to these destinations

In June 2014, Air France unveiled the first Boeing 777 equipped with its new long-haul cabin classes as part of a $500 million investment in new products and services. One year later, the airline is seeing the rewards of its efforts with a significant increase in its customer satisfaction ratings. This enthusiasm has contributed to a 28 point increase in the Net Promoter Score (NPS), a popular rating index which has received a high response from customers asked whether they are willing to recommend Air France to their families, friends and colleagues.

For images of the new Air France cabins, please visit corporate.airfrance.com and enjoy an immersive virtual tour of the BEST cabins with Google Street View technology on https://goo.gl/maps/jWCBf.

Air France, voted "world's most improved airline" in 2015

In June 2015, Air France received two awards from Skytrax – “world's most improved airline” and, for the second consecutive year, “best first class airline lounge dining.” These awards were presented to the company at the World Airline Awards, the occasion for Skytrax to announce its highly-professional airline rating among one of the most respected in the air transport industry. Both awards received by Air France are based on feedback from nearly 19 million customers in an online survey.

  

Air France-KLM, 19 destinations in North America

Air France-KLM serves 19 destinations in North America on departure from Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol airports. Recently, the Group also resumed operation of two seasonal services to Minneapolis and Dallas. Air France-KLM is also increasing capacity to Vancouver, Canada with flights operated by Air France on departure from Paris-Charles de Gaulle since March 29, 2015. Moreover, since May 19, 2015, KLM has resumed flights to Edmonton, Canada on departure from Amsterdam-Schiphol. Furthermore, as part of the transatlantic joint-venture, Air France-KLM and its partners Delta Air Lines and Alitalia jointly operate over 250 trans-Atlantic flights operated daily by the four airlines. The joint-venture represents close to 25% of total capacity between Europe and North America.

About Air France

Air France, a global airline of French inspiration, with high standards and a caring attitude, turns the flight into a moment of real pleasure on all its daily operations in France, Europe and worldwide.

Since 2004, Air France and KLM Royal Dutch Airlines have formed a global air transport giant with a strong European base. The Group also offers cargo transport and aeronautical maintenance solutions.

Air France-KLM is the leading Group in terms of international traffic on departure from Europe. In 2015, it offers its customers access to a network covering 316 destinations in 115 countries thanks to its four brands Air France, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines, Transavia and HOP! Air France. With a fleet of 546 aircraft in operation and 87.4 million passengers carried in 2014, Air France-KLM operates up to 2,200 daily flights from its hubs at Paris-Charles de Gaulle and Amsterdam-Schiphol.

Its Flying Blue frequent flyer programe is one of the leaders in Europe with over 25 million members.

Air France-KLM and its partners Delta Air Lines and Alitalia operate the biggest trans-Atlantic joint-venture with over 250 daily flights.

Air France-KLM is also a member of the SkyTeam alliance which has 20 member airlines, offering customers access to a global network of over 16,320 daily flights to 1,052 destinations in 177 countries.

Singapore Airlines Unveils New Premium Economy Class Experience

Singapore Airlines just unveiled its new Premium Economy Class seats and the in-flight offerings that customers will enjoy when the new cabin class enters service in August.

Following a two-year development program and an investment of about US$80 million, the new seats were displayed for the first time today at a media launch in Singapore. Launch events are also taking place to display the new product to travel agents and corporate clients.

Premium Economy Class will welcome customers with a contemporary and stylish design. Each seat has a width of either 18.5 or 19.5 inches, depending on aircraft type, with an 8-inch recline and a seat pitch of 38 inches. Together with active noise-cancelling headphones and a sleek 13.3-inch full HD monitor which is the largest in its class, customers can look forward to an enhanced in-flight entertainment experience.

Other features include a full leather finishing, calf-rest and foot-bar for every seat, individual in-seat power supply, two USB ports, personal in-seat reading light, cocktail table, and more stowage space for personal items.

"Many of our customers have been asking for a Premium Economy offering and we are confident that what we are delivering will exceed their expectations," said Singapore Airlines Executive Vice President Commercial, Mr Mak Swee Wah.

"The new cabin product is the culmination of two years of work, which included extensive research and focus group studies involving customers and our design partners. Our Premium Economy Class will provide customers more comfort and in-flight amenities. Complemented by the exceptional service that Singapore Airlines is so well known for, the new cabin class will be 'a great new way to fly'."

Premium Economy Class will provide an extensive range of food and beverage offerings, which includes the Premium Economy Book the Cook service, enabling advance ordering of a selection of main courses.

Priority check-in and baggage handling, with a generous baggage allowance of 35kg, will be offered to customers. Members of the KrisFlyer frequent-flyer programBest premium will also receive 10% more miles when they fly in Premium Economy Class.

Premium Economy Class will be progressively introduced on 19 Airbus A380s, 19 Boeing 777-300ERs and the first 20 Airbus A350s. It will enter commercial service on 9 August 2015 to Sydney, before being introduced to other destinations such as Beijing, Delhi, Hong Kong, Frankfurt, London, Mumbai, New York, Shanghai, Tokyo and Zurich.

Lufthansa’s New Premium Economy Class Now Offered On Half Of Airline’s Long-Haul Fleet

·         53 aircraft equipped with approximately 2,000 Premium Economy seats

·         Completion of retrofitting in autumn 2015

The retrofitting of Lufthansa’s new Premium Economy class on the airline’s fleet is on schedule. Today, experts from Lufthansa Technik completed the installation of Premium Economy class seats in an Airbus A340-300 with the registration D-AIGO, and as a result, passengers can already enjoy the airline’s new travel class on half of Lufthansa’s long-haul jets. Thus, a total of 53 aircraft— approximately 2,000 new, well-equipped seats— now offer an added, extra comfort in Economy Class.

The retrofit order is carried out according to the type of aircraft. Therefore, all Boeing 747-8 and Airbus A380 aircraft on routes originating from the Frankfurt hub already have Premium Economy on board. A total of 15 of the Airbus A340-600 aircraft stationed in Munich, and both A340-300 aircraft in Dusseldorf, also feature the new seats.

Currently, Lufthansa jets with Premium Economy on board are already flying to the 33 most important long-haul destinations including New York, Miami, Los Angeles, Sao Paolo, Rio de Janeiro, Beijing, Singapore and Hong Kong. The first customer ratings for this newest class show a high level of satisfaction, with seat comfort, service and excellent value for the cost are praised.

The remaining aircraft of the type: Airbus A330-300, A340-300, A340-600 and Boeing 747-400 will be retrofitted in the coming weeks. Completion of the retrofit is expected for autumn 2015. 

On the new Premium Economy Class:

The seat is up to three centimeters wider, depending on the type of aircraft. Additionally, the separate armrests for each seat and the center console between the seats ensure extra privacy and a total of approximately 10 centimeters of more space to the side. The backrest can be tilted further back and the seat spacing is more generous at 38 inches or 97 centimeters. Thus, the personal space for passengers increased by about half compared to Economy Class. The adjustable headrest can be folded at the sides and gives ample support. Height adjustable footrests beginning with the second row, and leg supports with integrated footrests in the front row, provide additional comfort. With two pieces of luggageup to 50 pounds, each passenger has twice as much free baggage allowance as in Economy Class. For a surcharge of 28 dollars, passengers also have the opportunity to enjoy the amenities of many Lufthansa Business Lounges before their flight. Access to the Welcome Lounge in Frankfurt is possible for a fee of 56 dollars. The check-in and boarding process, and the hand baggage regulations, are similar to those in Economy Class.

On board, Premium Economy passengers can expect an upgraded service: Passengers can control the extensive in-flight entertainment program using their own touch-screen with a display size of 11 to 12 inches (28 to 30 centimeters). Furthermore, each seat offers a USB port and an electrical outlet so passengers can use their own devices. A diverse selection of newspapers and magazines complement the entertainment program.

For more information visit http://www.lufthansagroup.com/de/themen/premium-economy.html

About Lufthansa

One of the world's largest and most prestigious airlines, Lufthansa currently flies to 207 destinations in 76 countries, with hubs in Frankfurt and Munich. With the Lufthansa Group acquisition of Austrian Airlines, SWISS and a stake in Brussels Airlines, Vienna, Brussels, and Zurich were added as additional hubs and the entire Group flew a total of 106 million passengers in 2014. From its 21 North American gateways, Lufthansa — voted by Fortune as one of the five most admired airlines in the world — along with its Group members and Star Alliance partners, serve over 1,300 destinations worldwide. An industry innovator, Lufthansa has long been committed to environmental care and sustainability, operating the most technologically-advanced and fuel-efficient fleet in the world. Its long-haul fleet to and from North America includes the Boeing 747-8, as well as the Airbus A380. Currently, Lufthansa has over 272 new aircraft worth about USD 46 billion in list prices on order. Lufthansa is the largest European operator of the A380 and was also the launch customer for the new Boeing 747-8, the industries’ two most fuel-efficient passenger aircraft. Known for its premium services, Lufthansa continues to build new or upgrade existing lounge facilities across its worldwide network and will spend more than USD 3.7 billion in new products and services by 2016. In 2014, Lufthansa introduced its new Premium Economy Class which offers further comfort and more personal space. In the first quarter of 2015, Lufthansa will finish revamping its First Class, followed by the completion of its Business Class retrofit in the second quarter. By the end of the third quarter of 2015, the new Premium Economy Class will be installed throughout the entire fleet – bringing Lufthansa one step closer to becoming the first five-star airline in the Western Hemisphere. Additionally, nearly the entire Lufthansa long-haul fleet is equipped with its onboard broadband wireless Internet service, FlyNet. For more information or reservations, visit www.LH.com.

Economy Class Is Getting The Luxury Treatment

While economy class isn't as cozy as business or first, airlines are starting to offer more luxe amenities to the everyday traveler (probably to help us forget outrageous luggage fees or the fact our pretzels are no longer free, but I digress). In many instances, economy class is becoming a lifestyle experience in the sky.

For example, take Etihad Airways new couture uniforms launched in late December, designed by Milan-based couturier Ettore Bilotta. Featuring tones of chocolate brown, deep purple and burnt orange, the uniforms are made from 100% Italian wool and are meant to give a nod to a time when flying was glamorous.

Photo courtesy of Virgin America

If poorly poured well drinks and cheap wine in plastic cups aren't your thing, Virgin America is now offering craft bottle cocktails from Austin Cocktails. As the airline is a San Francisco company, it always focuses on showcasing local businesses through its food and beverage program, featuring the likes of Philz Coffee, 479° Popcorn, Krave Jerky, and 21st Amendment and Anchor Steam Breweries.

On Air France, everyone gets a taste of first class. Even economy passengers get a glass of bubbly (Lombard & Cie Brut Reference brut, to be exact), from the airline’s wine and Champagne list, which is hand-curated by Paolo Basso, named the world’s top sommelier in 2013.

Aeroflot brings the usually first-class amenity travel kits — including eyes masks, slippers and do-not-disturb stickers — to economy on flights longer than 8 hours.

Photo courtesy of EL AL Israel Airlines

And while it’s nothing new for airlines to incorporate chef-created menus into their dining programs, it’s typically reserved for higher-class passengers. However, on EL AL Israel Airlines all passengers are served dishes by celebrity chef Moshe Segev, who owns three Israeli restaurants and hosts a television cooking show, Segev Comes to Cook. Think meals like truffled sweet potato soup or a healthy salmon fillet with steamed rice and green beans served with boutique Israeli wines.

“Mai Tais” in economy provide a sip of Hawaiian culture. Photo courtesy of Hawaiian Airlines

Hawaiian Airlines also features a chef-led program for economy class, with Chef Chai Chaowasaree’s pan-Asian menu featuring dishes like Hawaiian-style BBQ chicken with fresh mango salsa and fried rice.

Contributed by Jessica Festa ,http://roadwarriorvoices.com/

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Travelore Tips: Premium Economy Seats Worth The Upgrade

Virgin Atlantic

Virgin Atlantic launched the "premium economy" concept in 1992 to woo cost-minded business travelers—and the service hasn't changed much in the decades since. Not that that's a bad thing; the dedicated check-in and bag drop ensure exclusivity from the very beginning, and the purple leather seats boast a width of 21 inches, one of the biggest in the business. The airline also offers some of the best Premium Economy dining options, including a multi-course meal and after-dinner drinks.

Courtesy Virgin Atlantic

Japan Airlines

If you need a cocktail to help you relax during a flight, Japan Airlines's Sky Premium class has you covered: The expanded beverage selection includes champagne, sake and sochu, among other offerings. This is in addition to the the TUMI amenities kit and the unique slide-down seat design inside individual shells, which prevents passengers in front of you from reclining into your lap. The perks start well before you board: pre-boarding lounge access is included.

Courtesy Japan Airlines

British Airways

The airline's recently updated World Traveler Plus cabin now includes more comfortable seats outfitted with greater recline capacity and adjustable head- and footrests. Noise-canceling headphones and a fleece blanket only add to the comfort level. Plus, the entire dining experience has been improved: A three-course lunch or dinner includes some items from the business class menu, as well as snacks and cocktails. And if that's not enough, meals are served on actual china.

Courtesy British Airways

Qantas

A team of Australian hospitality experts is involved in the high-quality (and chic) premium economy experience aboardQantas. The cabin's wide seats also have a pitch that ranges from 38 to 42 inches; they come with adjustable ergonomic headrests designed by Marc Newson and built by Recaro. And menu, designed by chef Neil Perry, is complemented by fine Australian wines. There's also a self-serve snack bar as well as beverage service throughout the flight, starting with a welcome drink.

Courtesy Qantas

Air New Zealand

Known for being one of the most innovative airlines in the world (have you seen the epic Hobbit-themed safety video?), Air New Zealand's Premium Economy Spaceseat (available on its 777-300 aircraft) is otherworldly. The stylish, white leather seat (outfitted into its own shell) is quite striking: It has two center seats, which allow passengers to face each other over an extra-wide armrest. It's perfect for traveling couples, who can enjoy a dinner date at cruising altitude.

Cathay Pacific

Every trip on Cathay's Premium Economy cabin starts with a hot towel and a glass of bubbly (or juice, if you so prefer), hinting at the enhanced food service for the flight (including tasty meals and a variety of snacks). The seats, which have an eight-inch recline, end on either legrests (if you're in the front row) or three-position footrests. Amenities like noise-canceling headphones, fancy bathroom soaps, eco-friendly amenities, and the oversized pillows add to the luxurious experience.

Courtesy Cathay Pacific

Alitalia

A dedicated check-in desk plus priority baggage handling at the destination streamline the pre- and post-flight experience when you've booked a Classica Plus ticket. The ergonomic seats are fairly wide at just under 19 inches, and the leg rests and 120-degree recline add to comfort of the product. Because you're flying Italian, the food and beverage perks are delicious: You're served a welcome drink, a traditional antipasto, and Italian wine, before capping the meal off with a shot of espresso.

OpenSkies

The lesser-known sister airline to British Airways only has one route: New York City (from either JFK or Newark Airport) to Paris' Orly Airport and back. Its Premium Plus category is all about intimate luxury thanks to a 2:2 configuration. The seats—with chic leather accents—recline to a comfortable 130 degrees. With the 47" pitch, it's difficult to find a more spacious premium economy seat flying the friendly skies. Bonus: Everyone on the plane has access to an entertainment-packed iPad.

Courtesy OpenSkies

ANA

Like JAL, ANA offers premium economy travelers lounge access in Tokyo plus in several airports in the U.S. and Europe. In the air, you'll be treated to seats that are nearly 20 inches wide, with both lumbar support and a foot rest. The meal service is technically the same as what you would get if you flew economy, but there are added treats such as red and white wine plus dessert from the business class menu. Don't forget to sift through the amenities kit; slippers are included.

Courtesy ANA

Thai Airways

Now that Thai Airways has ceased flying through the U.S., American travelers looking to board the airline have to get Europe first, with the most convenient connections via Scandinavia. Flights from Stockholm or Copenhagen to Bangkok are selling the last five rows of the business cabin on a Premium Economy ticket, meaning you get to travel the 11-hour flight in a lay-flat seat with the airline's economy service. Pricing here is roughly half the business rates and won't include the fancy dining options, which shouldn't be a big deal if you're spending most of the time sleeping.

Courtesy Thai Airways

Contributed by Chadner Navarro, www.cntraveler.com

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