It’s a bad economy and that means it’s a Premium Economy economy. At least judging by the torrent of PE deals that are spilling from airline marketing departments. Here are the latest ones worth considering.
Virgin Atlantic
Save up to 20% off Premium Economy award redemption. But transfer points from Starwood Starpoints (25% bonus) and the savings can run as high as 33%. From New York (JFK or Newark) to London the cost is 54,000 miles (45,000 Starpoints) and from Chicago 60,000 miles (50,000 Starpoints). (Amex Rewards is also a transfer partner of Virgin, but does not offer a transfer bonus.) More information: Virgin Atlantic Promotion Link
Scandinavian Airlines
Fares start at $1,338 from Chicago, New York, Seattle and Washington to many European destinations. Sale ends Jul. 8. More Information: Scandinavian Promotion Link
Qantas
Fares starting as low as $2,498 from New York, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco (Premium Economy service beings July 4) to Brisbane, Melbourne, and Sydney. Valid dates: July 6 through Oct. 25. Ticketing deadline: July 16. Booking tip: Go for an A380 flight between Los Angeles and Sydney, as Premium Economy seats are located on the upper deck. Perks include a self-serve snack bar, noise-canceling headsets, a pitch of 38 inches and a seat width of 19.5 inches. More information: Qantas Airways Promotion Link
Air New Zealand
Premium Economy fares start at $2,410 to Auckland and $2,625 to Queenstown from Los Angeles and San Francisco. Travel deadline: April 15, 2010. Air New Zealand also offers Premium Economy seats on the upper deck of B747. More information: Air New Zealand Promotion Link