The French airline Air France has announced that it will be undergoing a major overhaul of its Premium Economy product and renaming it "Premium". This decision aims to enhance the travel experience in this cabin class and meet the growing demands of modern passengers.
The renaming symbolizes the airline's reorientation, which aims to pamper its premium customers with a higher level of comfort and service. With the introduction of improved seats and a culinary selection put together by a Michelin-starred chef, Air France is focusing on significantly increasing travel comfort, especially on long-haul flights.
A new name for more exclusivity
The decision to change the name of Premium Economy to "Premium" underlines Air France's commitment to positioning the cabin class as a separate and high-quality product. While Premium Economy is often seen as an intermediate class between Economy and Business at many airlines, Air France wants to use the renaming to make it clear that it offers a unique and improved flight experience. This is part of the company's broader strategy to further strengthen its own brand image and to compete for discerning travelers.
The airline has also announced that by the end of 2025, nearly 80% of its long-haul fleet will be equipped with modernized seats designed specifically for the premium cabin. This move shows that Air France is making significant investments to improve the passenger experience.
More comfort: The new premium seats
The redesigned premium seats offer passengers significantly more comfort and legroom. With a reclining function of up to 124 degrees and a seat length of 94 to 97 centimeters, the seats enable relaxed and comfortable travel, especially on long-haul flights. These adjustments are a direct response to the needs of passengers who expect more space and comfort during the flight.
Another highlight are the 13,3-inch 4K Ultra HD touchscreens fitted to each seat. These screens offer a relaxed and high-quality way to enjoy films, series or other media content during the flight. USB ports and Wi-Fi access are also available so that passengers can charge their own devices and stay online during the flight. This comprehensive entertainment and connectivity package sets Air France apart from many competitors and ensures a pleasant travel experience.
Culinary highlights from Michelin-starred chef Frédéric Simonin
In addition to the improved seat comfort, Air France places great emphasis on the culinary offerings of its premium passengers. On board, passengers can expect a selection of menus designed by the renowned Michelin-starred chef Frédéric Simonin. This means that premium passengers benefit from sophisticated French cuisine that goes beyond the normal airplane food.
The menu includes classic French elements such as aperitif pastries, starters, hot main courses, cheeses and desserts. Special highlights include chicken in plum sauce with peas, red onion compote and asparagus tips and a trofie pasta casserole with porcini mushrooms and asparagus. This carefully curated selection reflects Air France's commitment to offering its passengers an exclusive and enjoyable culinary experience that makes the flight a special occasion.
A comprehensive comfort package
In addition to enhanced comfort on board, Air France also offers its premium customers special amenities on the ground. Thanks to the SkyPriority program, these passengers enjoy preferential treatment at airports, including faster security and boarding processes and priority baggage handling. These extras ensure that the journey is smoother and more relaxed, which is a key criterion, especially for frequent travelers and business customers.
In addition, premium customers receive a glass of champagne as a welcome from the crew before take-off. During the flight, noise-reducing headphones, comfortable blankets and pillows are available to further increase the passengers' well-being.
A step into the future
Air France's decision to rename its Premium Economy to "Premium" and to upgrade it comprehensively is a strategically smart move to survive in the increasingly competitive aviation market. More and more airlines are investing in their premium cabins to serve a demanding target group that is willing to pay a little more for additional comfort and excellent service.
With the reorientation and improvements in the premium cabin, Air France is sending a clear signal that it wants to strengthen its position in international competition and continue to be perceived as one of the leading European airlines. Investing in new seats, state-of-the-art entertainment systems and a first-class culinary offering is an essential component of this.
The airline is future-oriented and innovative as part of its enhanced premium class. This makes Air France an even more attractive choice for business travelers and tourists who value a high standard, especially on long-haul flights.
More than just a new name?
Renaming Premium Economy to "Premium" is more than just a cosmetic move. It is a sign of Air France's increasing efforts to delight its passengers with first-class service and a high level of comfort. From new, spacious seats to state-of-the-art entertainment systems and exquisite menus from a Michelin-starred chef, the airline aims to offer a travel experience that goes far beyond the usual. By the end of 2025, these improvements are expected to be implemented on a large part of the fleet, which could further strengthen Air France as a leading European airline.
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