What is the difference between Business Class and Premium Economy?

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What is the difference between Business Class and Premium Economy?

Business class and premium economy are both cabin class upgrades superior to standard economy seats, available with many airlines. However, when deciding which upgrade is right for you, it is important to consider the differences between these two classes, as there are significant changes when jumping from one to the other. In this article we will discuss the difference between business class and premium economy, and why you might want to upgrade.

What is premium economy?

Premium economy is an upgraded cabin class which you can book with some airlines. The benefits provided will change from airline to airline, but will generally follow the same trend:

More comfortable seating - Premium economy seating will often have more legroom, wider seats, and a better reclining angle for sleeping.

Better Food and drink - Premium economy passengers have access to chef-inspired meals, complimentary drinks, and enhanced menus.

Enhanced in-flight entertainment - Some airlines offer better in-flight entertainment to passengers who book premium economy such as larger monitors and access to on-demand entertainment such as movies, TV shows, and music.

What are the benefits of business class?

Business Class is also an upgraded cabin class which you can book with most airlines. The benefits provided will change similarly to premium economy:

Private quarters - Business class seats are usually segregated in their own private areas, sometimes even having full booths individual to each passenger which usually have a place to sit, a bed and a desk.

Improved amenities - Premium economy passengers will be given access to the best available comfort and entertainment services which may include movies, music and in some cases internet access.

Enhanced service - Business class flights are characterised by their complimentary drinks services, hot towels and flawless service.

Priority boarding - Business class passengers will likely be offered priority boarding and disembarking services at airports on either side of your journey.

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Is premium economy or business right for me?

Which cabin class you decide to book will depend on a few factors, but the primary concern is usually cost. Where premium economy is already on average 30% more expensive than standard economy, business class flights cost comparatively a lot more. This can make premium economy an appealing option for those seeking a more luxurious vacation without paying over the odds.

Business class flights are recommended for those who want their vacations to be the height of luxury from start to finish. Everything about business class exudes class and provides the ultimate flight experience. It is the perfect upgrade for once-in-a-lifetime holidays or passengers who want to live lavishly.

Are you anxious about paying these extra expenses but still want a luxurious upgrade for your vacation? Alternative Airlines is here to help. We offer a range of ways to pay, including partners who let you split the cost of your payments.

You can split the cost of premium economy and business class flights too, meaning your dream holiday can fit within your budget. Some of our favourite payment partners include Klarna (available in the USA and selected European countries), Affirm (available in Canada, the UK and USA) and Afterpay (available in the UK, Canada, the USA, New Zealand and Australia).

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Search for flights

Enter the destinations you'd like to visit, dates you'd like to travel on, and the number of passengers flying with you into the Alternative Airlines search form and click 'Search Flights.' You can also select the currency you want, including Crypto, to give you accurate final pricing throughout the booking journey.

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Select your airline of choice

You'll see the hundreds of different airlines flying to your chosen destination. Filter the search so that it only shows only the ones you want. Then select the flight that best suits your needs.

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Step 4 - Consider adding baggage protection to your booking

Select business class or premium economy

You will then be prompted to choose your ticket class, you can choose between standard economy, business, first class and of course, upgrades like business class or premium economy.

If there's anything else you want to add, such as additional baggage, cancellation protection, flying with a pet, etc., you can do so now by scrolling to passenger details and clicking your desired additions.

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Select a payment option

Once you checkout, you'll see the many different payment methods available, including paying immediately in full using a bank card, Crypto or you can Buy Now Pay Later. The BNPLs that you see will depend on your country of residence.

After you've chosen your payment plan, you're all done! You'll find your e-ticket waiting for you in your email inbox.

Book your vacation today

Book your business or premium economy flights today and spread the cost over a period that suits you. Only available through Alternative Airlines.

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Premium Economy FAQs

What is the difference between premium economy and business?

Premium economy is a lower-tier ticket class compared to business class. Premium economy does have some of the benefits you might expect from business class, such as an enhanced menu, priority boarding and more, however, there are a few major differences.

Larger, lie-flat seats, often in private booths
Better service, such as extra complimentary meals and drinks
Exclusive menus for food and drink

Why book through Alternative Airlines?

Alternative Airlines is the best place to book your flights. We make it quick and easy to find the right flights for you and check out with your preferred payment method. We also have a wide array of services allowing you to reserve your preferred seats, book extra baggage, protect your booking, and much more.

Which airlines offer the best business class seats?

For the most luxurious and comfortable business class experience, consider airlines like Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, All Nippon Airways or Emirates. Check out our page on the best business class airlines to Europe for more inspiration.