Business Class vs. Premium Economy Flights: Explained by Business Flight Booking

The competition in the aviation industry is fierce, and airlines are working hard to attract more passengers. At the same time, fliers also expect a better experience each time they fly. As a result, airlines are virtually blurring the line that differentiates business class vs. premium economy flights. Understanding the chronology of aviation will help you clearly differentiate the two flight classes.

The first commercial flight took off in January 1914. Tony Jannus was the pilot who flew Abraham C. Pheil, the former mayor of St. Petersburg, over Tampa Bay. The cost of the flight back then was $5 for a distance of 18 miles. In today’s world, that would be about $162. Do note that there was no seat class back then; it was just a pilot and a passenger.

As time evolved and commercial aviation took off to great heights, seat classifications divided fliers into two main categories: First Class and Economy. Economy class was also known as “Coach.”

Then came a time when fliers didn’t want to pay the hefty amount for First Class, but didn’t want the hassle and discomfort of Economy either! That was when Qantas introduced business class flights in 1979. This class was particularly focused on corporate and business travelers who wanted to concentrate on their work and relax without any interruptions. This was something new.

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More fliers started opting for this particular class. Other airlines quickly followed suit and launched their own versions of the category. The story could culminate here, but it didn’t.

EVA Air, the renowned Taiwanese airline, introduced the first premium economy class in its long-haul flights in 1992. And with this, the world of aviation witnessed how competition led to innovation, focusing on a better customer experience.

Passengers who wanted something better than cramped economy seats while staying close to their budget had their wallets ready. Eventually, premium economy seats became an in-thing. And with that, confusion around which class to book also built up.

We will clear things up for you in this blog. Read along if you want to learn more about business class vs. premium economy flights. 

Business Class vs. Premium Economy Flights: Seats

If comfort is the most important factor when traveling long hours, your seat determines how comfortable your journey will be.

Business Class Flights Seats

The seats of a business class flight can best be described as opulent and comfortable. They can recline completely to a flat bed. So, you can sleep comfortably. Whether it’s the size of the seats, the support, or the legroom, everything is designed to offer the best flight experience.

Premium Economy Seats

Premium economy seats, although not as roomy as the business class, are much better than the economy class seats. The legroom is ample, the cushioning is just right, and the seat reclines to help you relax. The seats don’t recline to a fully flat configuration, though.

Premium Economy vs. Business Class Flights​: Baggage Allowance

Not all business flight passengers travel for work. Some go on vacation and thus need more baggage to carry. Traveling light is not everyone’s style. This is where baggage allowance makes room for you.

• The normal range is about 70 lbs per passenger
• Some airlines allow up to 88 lbs of check-in baggage per flier
• You can carry a bag that fits in the overhead bin
• You can also bring along a personal item that can fit beneath the seat

That said, no flight has enough space to carry your emotional baggage, no matter how big the plane is.

Premium economy, on the other hand, allows 50 to 55 lbs of baggage per passenger. You can carry one bag with you, provided that it fits in the overhead bin.

As mentioned before, baggage allowance varies from airline to airline, so it’s best to talk to our booking expert to know how much baggage you can carry with you.

Business Class vs. Premium Economy Flights on International Flights: Food and Beverages

In-flight meals and drinks also play a crucial role in the quality and overall travel experience. Business class tickets bring a fine dining experience. You get:

• A multi-course meal
• Elaborate options of soft drinks, wines, and other liquors
• The plating is done in fine china
• Food is prepared by top chefs from around the world

Some airlines even offer Michelin-starred and celebrity chefs preparing food for you on the flight.

The menu of premium economy may not be as elaborate and versatile as business class, but it is a major upgrade from your typical economy class food. The meals are served on a single tray, and you also get complimentary drinks.

H2: Business Class vs. Premium Economy Flights: Pricing

The price comparison for business class vs. premium economy flights depends on various factors:

• Level of luxury offered
• Space provided
• Services
• Amenities
• Route
• Airline

If you look at all the points mentioned above, it is clear that business class offers a superior experience, making it more expensive than premium economy. Business class flights are often two to three times the cost of the premium economy.

Premium economy, on the other hand, is a major upgrade from economy with better food, better services, and an improved flight experience. While substantially cheaper than business class, premium economy is worth the money if you don’t want the cramped seats of economy class. The former costs about three times as much as the latter.

Business Class Flights: How to Save Money while Booking

Now that we have covered the pricing as well, it’s time to know how to get a price cut on business class flights. There are many ways to get a massive discount on your business class tickets. The factors that affect the pricing can be your greatest ally in grabbing the best business class flight deals.

• Timing: When booking a flight, timing is one of the most crucial factors that affect the cost. Try to book your ticket about two to three months before your date of departure. It will help you get a good price cut.
• Flight Hours: Early morning and late night flights generally cost less than peak hours.
• Travel Season: Traveling in off-season months, also known as shoulder months, can get you a great deal. Peak travel season sees a lot of travelers, and as a result, airlines tend to increase the airfare.
• Days of the Week: Tuesdays and Wednesdays cost way less than weekend flights due to lighter traffic.

And then there’s the world of last minute business class flights. Many travelers and booking advisors claim that last minute business class deals require a wonderful stroke of luck. But that’s not always the case. With proper knowledge, experience, and insider information, last minute flights can be a game-changer, too. You just need the right travel expert by your side.

Conclusion

At Business Flight Booking, we believe in maximizing your comfort while minimizing your travel expenses. We have the knowledge, the experience, and the much-needed connections that help us find the best business class flight deals for you.

It’s not about how much money you are willing to spend; it’s about the value and the worth of the price that matters. Now that you have a clear idea of how business class vs. premium economy flights compare on paper, let’s find you the right flight that suits your travel preferences.