If you fly Delta, there are only two choices to Europe: Economy and Business Class, as Delta does not offer Premium Economy on international routes. However, two of its SkyTeam partners, Air France and KLM, do. Moreover, booking Premium Economy on these carriers earns Delta mileage members 25% more miles than they would by booking economy on either airline.
Air France offers Premium Economy on all of its B777 aircraft from New York to Paris, and this spring it will introduce the cabin on flights from Los Angeles, Houston, and Montreal. (Visit Air France for more.) The airline also offers Premium Economy from Paris to Asia (Hong Kong, Singapore, and other cities) and Africa (Abidjan, Dakar, and Lagos). All of KLM’s international flights offer Premium Economy.
The Seat and On Board Service
Air France Premium Voyageur seats are 18.9 inches wide (similar to many airlines’ Business Class), with 38 inches of pitch and a 123-degree recline, and have laptop power outlets. Premium Economy service includes free cocktails and wines during meal service, and a snack or breakfast.
KLM Economy Comfort seats are 17.5 inches wide, have 35 inches of pitch, and recline 116 degrees. On board service is the same as standard economy.
Cost and Booking Procedure
Air France: The booking code is A, and getting the best price usually means booking three weeks in advance. Sample: A Premium Economy New York-Paris fare is about $950 (plus taxes); $550 more than standard economy, but $2,365 less than the lowest 50-day-advance Business Class fare.
KLM: Economy Comfort can be booked only within 90 days of departure and the cost depends on the length of the flight, ranging from $116 (80 EUR) to $218 (150 EUR) one-way. Flying Blue elite members receive a discount.
The Difference
Air France offers a true Premium Economy product from the seat to the service. It’s a good comfort alternative for the Business Class traveler when saving money is the driver.
KLM is better suited to the everyday economy traveler who doesn’t mind paying a few dollars more for a better seat.