Emirates Premium Economy gets a major upgrade with electric seat controls, a full-height privacy screen and wireless charging on new A350 aircraft.
DUBAI: Emirates has unveiled what it describes as the world’s first fully electrically powered Premium Economy seat, bringing a full-height adjustable privacy screen and greater personal control to passengers aboard newly delivered Airbus A350 aircraft.
The Emirates Premium Economy upgrade introduces an electrically operated privacy divider between every seat. Passengers can raise or lower the screen using their seat controls and lock it into position when they want additional personal space for relaxing, dining or working.
The new A350 Premium Economy cabin has just 28 seats arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration. Each seat is 20 inches wide and offers a pitch of up to 39 inches.
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Unlike conventional reclining seats that can reduce the space available to the passenger behind, the new design reclines into a cradle position without intruding into the next row. Passengers can electrically adjust their seating position through an integrated Passenger Control Unit, with dedicated settings including lounge and meal modes.
Comfort features also include the U-Dream headrest by Safran Seats. Its adjustable wings provide personalised head and neck support, while a leather footrest provides additional support during longer journeys.
Technology is another major part of the Emirates Premium Economy update. Wireless charging is being introduced to the cabin for the first time, alongside USB-C charging and a tray table featuring an integrated phone holder.
Entertainment is delivered through a 13.3-inch 4K HDR touchscreen using Emirates’ ice inflight entertainment system. Newly delivered A350 aircraft will also feature additional exterior camera perspectives, including left and right views alongside existing forward and downward cameras.
The airline is also continuing its upgraded Premium Economy dining experience, with regionally inspired meals served on Royal Doulton china with linen napkins and Robert Welch stainless-steel cutlery.
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Long-haul passengers receive reusable amenity kits created in partnership with United for Wildlife. The kits use bio-based materials and include travel essentials alongside plant-powered skincare products from Aveda.
Emirates launched Premium Economy in 2022 and has progressively expanded the cabin across its fleet and network.
The Emirates Premium Economy upgrade represents another step towards narrowing the traditional experience gap between Premium Economy and Business Class, particularly through increased privacy, electric controls and enhanced technology.
Impact to expect
The new seat could increase competition among international airlines as travellers increasingly seek more comfort and privacy without paying Business Class fares. Features once associated primarily with higher cabins are increasingly moving into Premium Economy.
For Emirates, introducing the product on newly delivered A350s could further differentiate its Premium Economy offering while giving passengers greater control over their personal space during long-haul journeys.
