On international flights, the difference between economy class and upgraded premium economy classes vary by airline, route, and plane type.
In some cases, these seats can be very similar to regular economy seats but with a few inches of additional recline, legroom, and seat width. They may be located at the front of the main cabin but not in their own separate section. Popular examples include United’s Economy Plus, Delta’s Comfort +, American’s Main Cabin Extra, and JetBlue’s Even More Space. You may also get priority boarding, complimentary alcoholic beverages, and a wider snack selection. Some include a free checked bag along with designated overhead bin space..
Other versions of premium economy are a much bigger step above regular economy. The seats may have enhanced headrests, seat pitch, and footrests, so they offer better legroom and comfort than economy (though still not quite as nice as business or first). There are sometimes located in a separate cabin, and sometimes even have their own designated bathrooms. This fare class occasionally even offers luxe perks like a different food and drink menu, dedicated flight attendants, bigger entertainment screens, and amenity kits. Planes outfitted with premium economy cabins are often reserved for long-haul flights. Examples include British Airways’ World Traveler Plus, Delta’s Premium Select, JAL’s Sky Premium, United Premium Plus, and Virgin Atlantic and Virgin Australia’s Premium class.
On domestic and short-haul flights, however, premium economy is typically very similar to economy in service and seating, but with slightly increased legroom and recline.