Qantas unveils New Premium Economy Class Cabin

Qantas has unveiled it new Premium Economy cabin and seating to be offered progressively on its international Boeing 747-400 aircraft from February 2008 and on its fleet of new Airbus A380 which is scheduled for delivery from August 2008.

 the airline's Premium Economy cabin would appeal to Economy travellers seeking more space, comfort and an enhanced level of service.

"The Premium Economy seat was designed by Marc Newson - the designer of our award winning Skybed sleeper seat - and manufactured by Recaro, which makes seats for luxury auto brands such as Aston Martin, Audi and Porsche," said Qantas Executive General Manager, Mr. John Borghetti.

"The seats offer extra width and recline, more legroom, and an in-arm digital wide screen television monitor, as well as laptop power connection.

"Premium Economy will also include a self-service bar offering a selection of refreshments throughout the flight, in addition to the regular choice of meals designed by Neil Perry's Rockpool Group, premium wines, superior tableware and soft furnishings" Mr. Borghetti added.

Other key features of Premium Economy include:

- nine inch seat recline and up to 42 inch seat pitch;
- extra wide, 19.5 inch seat width;
- ergonomic cushioning; 
- larger, in-arm touch screen video monitor; 
- multiport jack with USB (A380 only) and RJ45 ports;
- a six-way adjustable headrest;
- an integrated leg rest with fold-out footrest; and
- a wide centre console with a fixed cocktail table and in-arm meal table.

"Premium Economy customers will also have a dedicated check-in area," Mr Borghetti said.

The Premium Economy cabin will be available gradually on B747 services to London, Hong Kong and Johannesburg from February 2008 with further routes being added following the introduction of A380 aircraft.

Premium Economy will be located on the main deck of B747 aircraft with 32 seats in a two-four-two configuration. On the A380, the cabin will be located on the upper deck with 32 seats in a two-three-two configuration.

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