
Guide to the best premium economy experience: Five airlines with the top offerings
Premium economy is having a moment. With rising airfare costs and a renewed focus on traveller wellbeing, more business travellers are looking for smart, comfortable alternatives to business class. And that’s exactly what premium economy offers: a balance between elevated service and sensible spending.

The perks of premium economy
Premium economy offers more than just a bigger seat. It's designed to support the way modern professionals travel. Whether it’s the thoughtful design of Singapore Airlines, the elevated luxury of Emirates, the practicality of Qantas and Virgin Australia, or the charm and consistency of Air New Zealand, these five airlines are doing premium right.
For business travellers, it’s about value, comfort, and showing up at your destination ready to go. Premium economy delivers just that—and it’s fast becoming the smartest seat in the sky.
So, the next time you're travelling for work, consider booking that premium economy seat to make the journey far more elevated.
Frequently asked questions
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What’s the difference between premium economy and standard economy?
Premium economy gives you a noticeable step up from standard economy. The main differences come down to:
- More space: seats are wider, recline further, and usually give you around 5 extra inches (13 cm) of legroom.
- Enhanced service: many airlines include priority check-in, earlier boarding, and a bigger baggage allowance.
- Better amenities: meals are often served on proper tableware, entertainment screens are larger, and you’ll usually get in-seat power or USB ports to stay charged.
- More space: seats are wider, recline further, and usually give you around 5 extra inches (13 cm) of legroom.
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Is premium economy worth it for business travel?
For a lot of business travellers, yes — especially on long-haul or overnight flights. The extra room and quieter cabin can mean the difference between nodding off properly or arriving exhausted. Add in perks like faster check-in and boarding, and you’ve got a smoother trip from start to finish.
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What can I expect from premium economy dining?
Food in premium economy is generally a step up from what you’d get in standard economy. Multi-course meals are common, often served on porcelain or china, and there’s usually a better choice of drinks, including wine or sparkling wine. Some airlines, like Singapore Airlines, even let you pre-order your main meal before the flight.
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Which airlines have the best premium economy for Australian business travellers?
Several airlines stand out when it comes to premium economy:
- Singapore Airlines: Spacious seats with calf and footrests, excellent entertainment, and the Book the Cook pre-order meal service.
- Emirates: Plush leather seats with generous recline and meals served on Royal Doulton china.
- Qantas: Comfortable wide seats with winged headrests, plus multi-course meals and an award-winning wine list.
- Virgin Australia: Economy X adds extra legroom and priority services at a good price, both in Australia and overseas.
- Air New Zealand: Friendly service with a dedicated premium economy cabin, increased recline, footrests, and amenity kits on long-haul journeys.
- Singapore Airlines: Spacious seats with calf and footrests, excellent entertainment, and the Book the Cook pre-order meal service.