Guide to the best premium economy experience: Five airlines with the top offerings

It’s no longer just about extra legroom. Today’s best premium economy experiences come with thoughtful touches like priority check-in, better meals, extra baggage, more space to stretch, and tech-friendly seats that let you stay productive in the air. For business travellers, that can be the difference between arriving worn out and arriving work-ready.

Here’s what’s happening in 2025:

• International premium economy return fares rose 9% YoY in Q1.
• Business bookings in this cabin jumped by 35% over the same period.
• Singapore Airlines topped recent traveller rankings for premium economy.

So, which airline offers the best premium economy experience for Australian business travellers? Let’s dive into five standout carriers—each offering a different flavour of elevated travel.

Is it worth flying premium economy?

For many business travellers, the answer is a resounding yes! Premium economy is designed to deliver a noticeably better experience than standard economy, especially on long-haul or overnight flights.

The best premium economy seats offer wider designs, deeper recline, and often a dedicated cabin—giving you the space to sleep, work, or unwind in peace. On average, you’re getting around 5 inches (13 cm) of additional legroom, plus more seat width and personal space. That’s a 15–20% physical upgrade that translates to a big difference on a 14-hour haul to Europe or the US.

The price premium varies by airline and route, but for many, the investment is worth it. And it’s not just about long-haul. Even on domestic flights, the upgraded service, early boarding, and faster deplaning help business travellers cut down on stress and stay efficient.

So, whether you’re travelling for a board meeting in Brisbane or a client pitch in New York, premium economy can offer the space, calm, and ease you need to show up fresh.

Pick premium for stress-free international flights

On long-haul flights, premium economy seats often come with additional amenities such as noise-cancelling headphones, larger personal screens, and improved meal options, creating a more pleasant and productive environment. Features are designed so premium economy passengers can work more effectively during the flight or relax and sleep better. This setup makes for a smoother adjustment to time zone changes and demanding schedules.

The advantages of premium economy class become even more pronounced on international flights. The enhanced comfort and service can significantly improve the travel experience on longer journeys. Many airlines offer dedicated check-in counters and priority boarding for premium economy passengers, further streamlining the travel process.

Overall, premium economy offers a balanced blend of cost-effectiveness and enhanced comfort, making it ideal for business travellers who are frequent flyers.

Singapore Airlines

If there’s one airline consistently mentioned in conversations around the best premium economy experience, it’s Singapore Airlines. Known for service that blends precision and warmth, their premium economy cabin delivers on every front—from comfort to culinary flair.
 

A seat to stretch out in

The seats on the A350 and Boeing 777 offer a spacious 19.5" (48 cm) width with an 8" (20 cm) recline, complete with a calf rest and footrest for maximum comfort. There’s even a dedicated laptop shelf and thoughtful storage spaces for personal items like water bottles or headphones.

You’ll also find two USB ports for charging, a universal power outlet, and a noise-cancelling headset at every seat, making it easy to stay connected or unplug for a mid-flight nap. On the ultra-long-range A350-900ULR, you’ll find a 1-1-1 layout with six solo premium economy seats for even more privacy.
 

Mouthwatering meal service

Expect plated meals that feel more like business class dining than economy fare. Main courses are served with bread, appetisers, dessert, cheese and crackers—on contemporary porcelain tableware.

Meals can be paired with Champagne and wines exclusive to premium economy class. According to Conde Nast Traveler, Singapore Airlines' selection of Burgundy wines is the most extensive among all airlines.

The "Book the Cook" service allows travellers to pre-select a gourmet main course up to 24 hours before departure on flights over 1.5 hours. The menu includes Western and Asian dishes, with ingredients sourced regionally (like Tasmanian salmon). Some dishes are even created by celebrity chefs, including Australia’s own Matt Moran.

It's no mystery why the airline won Best Premium Economy Class Onboard Catering in Asia at the 2025 Skytrax Airline Awards!

Entertainment, amenities and more.

With over 1,800 entertainment options and a crystal-clear 13.3" HD screen, your mid-flight downtime is covered. On flights longer than seven hours, passengers can also request a self-care amenity kit featuring an eye mask, slippers and lip balm. These self-care kits come packaged in an FSC-certified eco-pouch made by Out of the Woods®.

Singapore Airlines consistently ranks at the top for the best premium economy experience, offering seamless transitions between work, rest, and recharge.

Virgin Australia

As 2025's Best Regional Airlines in Australia/Pacific, Virgin Australia is known for its award-winning cabin crew and top-notch customer communication. When it comes to premium economy, Virgin takes a unique approach.
 

Exploring Economy X

Economy X is the premium economy class from Virgin Airlines, where you get more than you'd think for much less than you'd expect. Upgrading your cabin class starts from only $33 AUD for priority check-in and boarding, extra leg room and preferred overhead locker space. Plus, you'll get 40% more legroom and easy access to your luggage.
 

Booking your premium economy seat

With Australia's second-largest carrier, you can upgrade your domestic or international flight to Economy X easily and when you like. Choose the premium experience at the time of booking, after booking or during check-in. It's up to you!

Economy X seats have 30" (76 cm) pitch and 17" (43 cm) width. The airline offers great value in this cabin class, with one travel reviewer calling the premium economy service "business class in all but the seat".

For domestic routes or short-haul travel where flexibility and speed are key, Economy X offers a well-priced middle option that fits neatly into a modern business travel routine.

Air New Zealand

Air New Zealand brings its signature Kiwi charm to the premium economy experience. It’s a welcome change of pace for business travellers who value friendliness alongside function.

Inside, this separate cabin for premium economy includes 28 seats and has an average of 9" (23 cm) of reclines, including an armrest, extendable footrest, and leg rests. The seating height is 41" (104 cm), all adding up to more personal space for your flight. Plus, Air New Zealand was rated the safest airline in 2024. 

The benefits of premium economy

All passengers on the air travel service offered by the 737 Dreamliner and the 7777 Dreamliner can upgrade the cabin for the premium economic class. Easily accessed by utilising priority check-in and two checked bags on the plane.

Choosing premium economy on Air New Zealand gives you benefits like two pieces of carry-on (up to 14kg in total) and checked luggage (up to 23kg each), free standard seat selection, inflight entertainment, a complimentary meal and drinks from the Premium Economy menu.
 

The best of Kiwi cuisine on offer

A menu of fresh, high-quality ingredients showcases delicious flavours and warm hospitality. You can choose your meal ahead of the flight, from a selection of mains accompanied by bakery items, and an appetiser for the dinner selection. A wide range of excellent New Zealand wines and other beverages are available.
 

Amenities that delight

Little extras go a long way, don't they? With Air New Zealand's premium economy, you also receive a higher Airpoints Dollars™ and Status Points earn rate. For long-haul flights, such as Perth or Hawaii, you'll receive a bonus amenities kit for added comfort.

Emirates

Emirates has redefined premium economy as something much closer to business class than many airlines would dare. On select A380s—including routes between Dubai and Melbourne, Sydney or Brisbane—the premium economy cabin offers an exceptionally refined experience. It's no surprise Emirates ranked amongst the top 3 in the 2025 World’s Best Premium Economy Class Airlines.
 

Exceptional service and dining

From the moment you board, Emirates' premium economy just feels more luxurious. You’re welcomed with a drink, then shown to your plush leather seat with generous recline, cushioned leg rest, and extra width. Seats are also at the front of the aircraft, giving you greater priority to exit when you reach your destination.

Dining is impressive. Meals are served on Royal Doulton china with stainless steel cutlery wrapped in linen. You'll enjoy a wide range of beverages, including Chandon sparkling wine, extra vintages from the business class list, chocolates, and liqueurs. Meals include an appetiser and dessert, plus extra snacks on longer flights.
 

Entertainment that's a level above

In-flight entertainment programs are displayed on a 13.3" HD TV, one of the largest TVs available on airplanes. There's a variety of movies, music, children's shows, and even live sports. The latest A380 also features a high-speed Wi-Fi service on selected routes.

Qantas

Qantas knows Australian business travellers well. Its premium economy offering sits right in the sweet spot—especially on international routes from Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane to cities across the U.S., Asia and beyond. Qantas premium economy is available on A380 and 787 aircraft on selected routes.

Qantas premium economy cabins are intentionally designed for travellers who want a peaceful, separate space to get comfortable. The seats are wide (up to 22.8 inches), with a generous 40-inch pitch and winged headrests that cradle your neck just right for sleep. Add in the calf rest and a structured recline mechanism, and you've got one of the most ergonomically friendly setups in the sky.
 

Premium dining options and beyond

Start your business trip with a welcome drink, either a glass of sparkling wine or water. When it's time to eat, enjoy a multi-course dining experience served on stylish tableware designed by David Caon. The menu changes seasonally and often features locally inspired dishes, including a rotating selection for routes like India-Australia. Qantas also offers an award-winning wine list, with inflight sommeliers available on select international flights to help you pair the perfect drop.

As Australia's flag carrier, Qantas has all the amenities to make your trip comfortable. Snacks and drinks are available from the self-serve bars on B787-9 and A380 aircraft. Sample inflight entertainment with noise-cancelling headphones and access the latest movies, TV box sets, music, and interactive games via the touchscreen console.