The new seating option is set to be available later this year, with enhanced comfort and privacy features
Zurich-based Swiss International Air Lines has revealed its debut premium economy class cabin which it plans to roll out from the fourth quarter of this year.
The carrier expects to install the new seats on board all 12 of its Boeing 777-300ERs. The entire fleet is anticipated to have been fitted with the new features by the beginning of next summer.
The airline says customers will benefit from more privacy and enhanced comfort, with the opportunity to enjoy a range of food and beverages.
The new premium economy class supplements the airline’s existing economy, business and first-class cabins.
Tamur Goudarzi Pour, SWISS chief commercial officer, said: “Our new premium economy class is tailor-made for our previous economy class customers who are looking to enhance their air travel experience and enjoy the benefits associated with higher travel classes. In international comparison terms, our SWISS premium economy class is very clearly positioned as a top travel product.”
Dieter Vranckx, SWISS CEO, added: “We are delighted that, in introducing our new premium economy class, we are meeting our customers’ growing demand for more privacy, more comfort and more individuality.
“And by introducing our new class of travel, we are also further strengthening our premium positioning in the growing leisure travel segment.”
On each aircraft, 24 seats will be introduced that limit intrusion into the personal space of the passenger behind, according to the carrier. The seat is also around 5cm wider than standard economy and positioned with a 20cm increase in pitch, allowing for greater legroom.
Customers are also set to be equipped with noise-reducing headphones, personal reading lamps and USB charging ports for electronic devices.
Additionally, travellers are able to bring two bags of up to 23 kilos – double the amount of economy class passengers. They are also able to use the SWISS business lounges at Zurich and Geneva airports.
The airline’s Boeing 777s currently serve Bangkok, Hong Kong, Los Angeles, Miami, San Francisco, Sao Paulo and Singapore from its hub at Zurich.
