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Korean Air has announced the introduction of a Premium Economy class, aiming to bridge the gap between its Prestige (Business) and Economy classes.
This new class will debut on 11 retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, replacing the existing First Class cabins.
The first of these aircraft is scheduled to enter service in the latter half of 2025, with the retrofit program extending into 2026 to expand Premium Economy availability across more routes.
Korean Air Chairman and CEO Walter Cho told Executive Traveller, “We will have about 20-25 (premium economy) seats per aircraft, servicing all the long-haul routes. The(first) 777-300ER is being retrofitted as we speak. ”
The introduction of Premium Economy is a response to the growing market demand for a class that offers enhanced comfort without the premium price of Business Class. Passengers can anticipate wider, reclining seats with increased legroom, improved onboard services and amenities, enhanced dining options, and priority boarding.
In addition to the new seating class, Korean Air is undertaking significant upgrades to its airport lounges. The airline plans to expand and renovate lounges at Seoul’s Incheon Airport (ICN), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), and New York's John F. Kennedy Airport (JFK). At Incheon, the existing Prestige Class Lounge in the east wing will double in size, and the Miler Club Lounge will also be expanded. These four lounges are set to open in phases starting August 2025. The First Class Lounge and Prestige Class Lounge in the west wing will undergo renovations and are expected to reopen in April 2026. Upon completion, Korean Air will operate a total of six lounges at Incheon, increasing overall lounge space by 2.5 times and doubling seating capacity.
These developments are part of Korean Air's broader service enhancement strategy, which includes a refreshed corporate identity ahead of its integration with Asiana Airlines.
United Airlines is set to expand its Premium Plus cabin in response to increasing demand for premium economy seats.
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