Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy Review Ultimate Upgrade Guide
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- What Is Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy?
- Advantages of Flying Premium Economy
- Seat Comfort and Space
- Inflight Entertainment Screens Content and More
- Dining and Beverage Service A Gourmet Experience?
- Baggage Allowance and Priority Services
- Onboard Service and Cabin Crew Experience
- Airport Experience Lounge Check in and Boarding
- Comparison Premium Economy vs. Economy vs. Upper Class
- Pricing Breakdown and Value for Money
- Frequent Flyer Benefits and Miles Redemption
- Customer Reviews and Real Passenger Feedback
- Pros and Cons of Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy
- FAQs About Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy
- Conclusion Is Premium Economy Worth It?
1. Introduction
Flying can be a tiring experience especially on long haul routes. Economy class often feels cramped and business class is too expensive for many travelers. Enter Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy a middle ground that offers more space better food and priority services at a reasonable price.
But is it worth upgrade? In this comprehensive review we’ll break down every aspect of Premium Economy experience to help you decide if it’s right choice for your next trip.
2. What Is Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy?
Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy is a special cabin class positioned between Economy and Upper Class (Business Class). It’s designed for travelers who want more comfort and premium services without paying for a full business class ticket.
Key Features of Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy
Wider seats with extra legroom (38 inches of pitch vs. 31 in Economy)
Upgraded meal service with a welcome drink and premium options
Priority check in security and baggage handling
Larger entertainment screens and noise reducing headphones
Increased baggage allowance (two checked bags included)
Dedicated cabin crew for personalized service
This offering is particularly attractive for long haul travelers who want extra comfort but don’t want to spend thousands on a business class seat.
3. Advantages of Flying Premium Economy
Upgrading to Premium Economy brings several benefits that significantly improve flight experience.
More Comfort and Space
- Wider reclining seats with extra legroom
- Adjustable footrests and headrests for better support
- More personal space reducing feeling of being cramped
Priority Services
- Dedicated check in counters at most airports
- Faster security checks at select airports
- Priority boarding before Economy passengers
Enhanced Meal Service
- Welcome drink (champagne juice or water) upon boarding
- Multi course meal served on real china with proper cutlery
- A choice of better quality meals compared to Economy
Better Entertainment and Amenities
- Larger screens and noise canceling headphones
- Premium amenity kits with essentials for comfort
Increased Baggage Allowance
- Two 23kg checked bags (double what Economy allows!)
- More room for souvenirs and personal items
These advantages make Premium Economy a solid choice for both leisure and business travelers.
4. Seat Comfort and Space
Seating is arguably biggest advantage of Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy.
| Feature | Economy | Premium Economy | Upper Class |
| Seat Width | 17 to 18 inches | 21 inches | Lie flat bed |
| Legroom (Pitch) | 31 inches | 38 inches | 6+ feet |
| Reclining Ability | Standard | Extra Recline | Fully Flat |
| Footrest & Headrest | No | Yes | Yes |
What This Means for You
- More room to stretch your legs
- Better posture support with adjustable headrests
- Enough space to comfortably work on a laptop
5. Inflight Entertainment Screens Content and More
Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy ensures that passengers get a top tier entertainment experience.
Larger personal screens (13.3 inches vs. 10 inches in Economy)
High quality noise reducing headphones included
Hundreds of movies TV shows and games
Live TV options on select flights
Passengers can enjoy a diverse selection of Hollywood blockbusters international films and box sets to make time fly by.
6. Dining and Beverage Service A Gourmet Experience?
Food quality is noticeably better than Economy.
- Welcome champagne or juice upon boarding
- Three course meal with upgraded entrée choices
- Real metal cutlery and porcelain dishes
- Premium drink selection (wine spirits cocktails and soft drinks)
Special Meals Available Vegan vegetarian halal kosher gluten free and other dietary requests can be accommodated.
7. Baggage Allowance and Priority Services
- Checked Bags Two bags up to 23kg (50lbs) each
- Carry On One bag up to 10kg (22lbs) plus a personal item
- Priority Baggage Handling Bags arrive sooner after landing
8. Onboard Service and Cabin Crew Experience
Passengers in Premium Economy receive personalized service from a dedicated crew.
Key Service Highlights
- Attentive friendly staff
- Faster response times for assistance
- More individualized attention than in Economy
Crew’s hospitality enhances premium experience.
9. Airport Experience Lounge Check in and Boarding
Although lounge access is not included Premium Economy passengers enjoy
Priority check in at dedicated counters
Faster security clearance at select airports
Priority boarding before Economy passengers
10. Comparison Premium Economy vs. Economy vs. Upper Class
| Feature | Economy | Premium Economy | Upper Class |
| Seat Width | 17 to 18 inches | 21 inches | Lie flat bed |
| Legroom | 31 inches | 38 inches | Over 6 feet |
| Meal Service | Basic | Enhanced | Fine Dining |
| Baggage Allowance | 1 bag | 2 bags | 2+ bags |
| Lounge Access | No | No | Yes |
11. Pricing Breakdown and Value for Money
Premium Economy costs 30 to 50% more than Economy but less than half price of Upper Class.
Sample Price Comparisons (One Way London to New York)
- Economy $500 to $700
- Premium Economy $900 to $1400
- Upper Class $2500 to $4500
For many extra comfort is well worth price.
12. Frequent Flyer Benefits and Miles Redemption
Flying Premium Economy earns more Virgin Points for future upgrades lounge access and free flights.
13. Customer Reviews and Real Passenger Feedback
Overall Rating 4.5/5
Common Praise Great comfort delicious meals and priority services.
Common Complaints No lounge access and seats don’t lie flat.
14. FAQs About Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy
Q1 Is Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy worth cost?
Yes especially for long haul flights where extra comfort makes a big difference.
Q2 Does Premium Economy get lounge access?
No but access can be purchased separately.
Q3 How much more does Premium Economy cost?
It’s about 30 to 50% more than Economy depending on route.
Q4 Do Premium Economy seats recline fully?
No but they offer a significant recline compared to Economy.
Q5 Can I upgrade from Economy to Premium Economy?
Yes upgrades are available using cash or Virgin Points.
Q6 Do I get priority check in and boarding?
Yes Premium Economy passengers enjoy faster airport processing.
15. Conclusion Is Premium Economy Worth It?
For long haul flights YES! It offers comfort better service and extra perks without breaking bank. If you value space priority services and improved dining it’s a smart investment.
