Air India’s Premium Economy Class Launches for Select Flights
Air India has announced the launch of its Premium Economy class, providing passengers with an exceptional in-flight experience and added convenience on the ground. The airline has become the first and only Indian carrier to offer four cabin classes: First, Business, Premium Economy, and Economy.
Initially, Premium Economy will only be available on select routes, including Bengaluru-San Francisco, Mumbai-San Francisco, and Mumbai-New York, and will be operated by the airline’s Boeing 777-200LR aircraft. However, Air India plans to extend the service to many more routes soon, as they continue to modernize and expand their fleet.
The popularity of Premium Economy is increasing among travelers worldwide, as they seek more luxurious yet affordable flying experiences. Campbell Wilson, CEO & MD of Air India, stated that the launch of Premium Economy was another step in the airline’s ongoing effort to become a modern, global carrier that delivers world-class products and services.
The new class offers an exclusive travel experience for passengers who are willing to pay a reasonable premium over Economy Class fares to enjoy more space, comfort, and convenience. Air India aims to provide a distinctive Premium Economy experience that caters to the needs of customers who appreciate flying in style.
Additional benefits and amenities
Air India offers a premium travel experience with its Premium Economy class. Customers will enjoy a fast-track airport experience, including dedicated check-in counters and priority baggage handling. They will also be amongst the first to board the aircraft, ensuring a hassle-free journey.
Premium Economy customers on Air India’s Boeing 777-200LR aircraft will have access to a separate and spacious cabin with 48 leather-upholstered seats. These seats have a width of 19 inches, a pitch of 38 inches, and a 5-inch recline, along with winged headrests and adjustable leg rests and footrests. The seats provide extra legroom for passengers to stretch out during the flight and work or rest comfortably.
The premium experience continues with a complimentary TUMI amenity kit, designed specifically for Air India. The kit includes flight socks, an eye mask, lip moisturizer, and a pen, as well as carpet slippers. Customers will also receive noise-canceling headphones to use during the flight, complementing Air India’s In-flight Entertainment system.
Onboard dining is also a highlight of the Premium Economy class. Customers will be welcomed with a welcome drink served on an elegant silver tray and presented with a menu card that reflects the culinary experience to come. Passengers will be able to choose from a selection of three main course options, served on fine chinaware casseroles, accompanied by appetizers and desserts. The drinks menu features a fine selection of alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
Customers can now book Premium Economy seats through various channels, including the Air India website, mobile apps, and travel agents. With all these premium features, Air India’s Premium Economy class promises to provide an unforgettable travel experience.
Refurbishing under Tatas
Under the leadership of the Tata group, Air India has been revamping every aspect of its operations, from systems to supply chains. Reuters recently reported that this push for modernization is necessary to overcome years of underinvestment and shed outdated bureaucratic processes. The airline hopes to win back customers from domestic rival IndiGo and Dubai’s Emirates, making it imperative to implement modern practices.
Air India has partnered with Tata Technologies to manufacture plastic components for economy-class seats in-house, rather than waiting for suppliers to deliver outdated parts. Additionally, the airline is acquiring leased planes while reworking its network strategy to attract Indian customers abroad. Tata appointed Wilson to lead the turnaround last year, and he has described this transformation as both a startup and a turnaround effort.
According to government data cited by Reuters, Air India’s international traffic grew by 28% in the Oct-Dec quarter compared to April-June, while its domestic market share increased from 7.5% in mid-2022 to 9% by the end of February. The airline expects these figures to rise significantly after merging with Vistara, but this deal also presents new challenges.
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