Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy sits between standard economy and business class. It gives passengers more space and upgraded services without the full business class price tag.

This cabin targets travellers who want more comfort than economy but don’t need all the luxury features of Upper Class. Virgin Atlantic’s Premium Economy provides 38-inch seat pitch, premium dining, priority boarding, and enhanced baggage allowances across their long-haul network.

The airline positions this service as a mid-tier option that delivers significant improvements over economy. It stays more accessible than business class pricing.

Many passengers wonder whether the upgrade cost justifies the benefits, especially on longer transatlantic routes where comfort really matters. Reviews from experienced travellers suggest the cabin offers genuine value for those seeking enhanced comfort without premium class expenses.

Key Takeaways

• Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy offers 38-inch seat pitch with wider seats and upgraded meal service compared to standard economy
• Passengers receive priority boarding, enhanced baggage allowances, and access to premium check-in facilities
• The cabin represents good value for money on long-haul flights when booked strategically or upgraded using points

Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy

What Is Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy?

Virgin Atlantic’s Premium economy sits right between standard economy and business class. It brings enhanced comfort and service, with wider seats, extra legroom, and added amenities across all Virgin Atlantic aircraft.

Key Differences from Economy and Business Class

Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy offers wider seats and extra legroom compared to standard economy. Passengers get priority check-in and two checked bags included in their fare.

The seats are only a bit wider than economy but the extra legroom is noticeable. Premium Economy passengers enjoy better meal service with improved food options and complimentary drinks.

Premium Economy vs Economy:

• Wider seats with extra legroom
• Priority boarding and check-in
• Enhanced dining options
• Two free checked bags
• Dedicated cabin section

Premium Economy vs Business Class:

• Less seat width and recline than business class
• Standard meal service instead of à la carte dining
• Shared lavatories
• No lie-flat seats on most aircraft

Premium economy pricing usually sits reasonably close to economy fares. Business class, on the other hand, commands a much higher premium.

Premium Economy Cabin Layout Across Aircraft Types

Virgin Atlantic’s Premium cabin appears on every aircraft in the fleet with consistent branding and service. The cabin layout depends on the specific aircraft type.

Most Virgin Atlantic planes place the Premium Economy cabin between the main economy section and business class. The cabin usually contains 4-6 rows of seats in either a 2-4-2 or 2-3-2 configuration.

Typical Seat Configuration:

• Wide-body aircraft: 2-4-2 layout
• Narrow-body aircraft: 2-3-2 layout
• Seat pitch: 38 inches
• Seat width: About 18-19 inches

The A330-900neo and other modern aircraft feature updated Premium Economy cabins with improved seat design and better entertainment systems. Older aircraft offer similar space and comfort, though the interior styling might differ.

Each Premium Economy seat comes with a personal entertainment screen, USB charging ports, and adjustable headrests. The cabin keeps Virgin Atlantic’s signature style with mood lighting and contemporary design touches.

Premium Economy Seats and Comfort

Virgin Atlantic’s Premium Economy seats give you much more space than standard economy. Seats offer up to 38 inches of pitch and comfort features like extra legroom, adjustable headrests, footrests, and deeper recline angles.

Seat Dimensions and Configurations

Virgin Atlantic Premium Economy seats feature up to 38 inches of seat pitch with extra large leather seating. They’re noticeably wider than standard economy seats.

Seat configurations change depending on the aircraft. Most long-haul planes feature Premium Economy cabins with their own layouts.

The seat layouts and experiences vary by plane type across Virgin Atlantic’s fleet. Aircraft like the A330, A350, and Boeing 787 each have distinct seating setups.

Premium Economy passengers sit in a dedicated cabin space, separate from standard economy. Seats have extra cushioning and premium materials throughout.

Extra Legroom and Recline Features

Premium Economy seats recline between 7 and 8 inches, offering real comfort for rest on long flights. This deeper recline makes it easier to sleep on long-haul routes.

The extra legroom lets passengers stretch out properly. The increased pitch means you get noticeably more space than in standard economy.

Premium Economy seats don’t recline fully flat, but they do offer extra space, a deeper recline, and wider seats compared to standard economy. That extra space makes resting and sleeping a lot easier during overnight flights.

The recline mechanism works smoothly and doesn’t really bother the people sitting behind. The seat angle gives good support for relaxing without being a nuisance.

Footrest and Adjustable Headrest

Premium Economy seats include adjustable headrests and footrests to help passengers get comfortable while they nap. These features help create better sleeping positions.

The adjustable headrest supports your neck and head. You can tweak the position to suit your favorite sleeping angle.

Footrests extend from the seat base and support your legs during the flight. This helps reduce leg fatigue and improves circulation on longer journeys.

The combo of footrest and headrest adjustability lets you find a comfortable position for both relaxation and sleep. These small details really set Premium Economy apart from standard economy seating.

Best Premium Economy Seats to Choose

The best seats depend on whether you want extra legroom, a good window view, or the chance to recline during meal service. Passenger preferences decide the ideal seat.

Bulkhead seats usually offer more space but may be near bassinets. Families with infants often take these spots. Back-row seats have their own pros and cons.

Window seats give privacy and views, but you’ll have to climb over others if you need to get up. Aisle seats make it easy to get to the restroom or stretch your legs.

Passengers can select Premium seats at any time if they’re available. Preferred seats at the front cost extra on top of the standard Premium Economy fare.

Premium Economy Experience Onboard

Virgin Atlantic’s Premium Economy cabin delivers elevated comfort with attentive crew service, better meal options, and premium amenities. Passengers get welcome drinks, upgraded entertainment, and thoughtful extras that set the experience apart from standard economy.

Attentive Service and Hospitality

Premium Economy passengers get a glass of bubbly when they board along with complimentary newspapers before takeoff. The cabin crew gives more personalized attention since the Premium Economy section is smaller.

Meal service includes enhanced dining with multiple courses on real tableware. Passengers pick from upgraded menu options with better ingredients and presentation than economy class meals.

The crew keeps a higher service ratio in Premium Economy, so they respond to requests faster. Flight attendants check on passengers often, offering more drinks and help as needed.

In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity

Premium Economy seats have larger personal entertainment screens than standard economy. The system includes a big library of films, TV shows, music, and games for long-haul flights.

Passengers get complimentary noise-cancelling headphones for better audio. The screens offer touch and remote controls for easy browsing.

Wi-Fi is available for purchase on most aircraft, so you can stay connected in the air. Power outlets and USB ports at each seat keep your devices charged throughout the flight.

Amenity Kits and Onboard Extras

Virgin Atlantic gives Premium Economy passengers amenity kits with essential travel items. These usually include eye masks, earplugs, a toothbrush, toothpaste, and moisturizer.

Passengers also get better bedding, including larger pillows and blankets for more comfort during rest. These are a definite step up from what economy passengers receive.

Extras include premium snacks served between meals and a wider selection of complimentary drinks. The galley stocks higher-quality refreshments just for Premium Economy passengers during the flight.

Dining and Drinks in Premium Economy

Virgin Atlantic’s Premium Economy passengers get plated meals with metal cutlery and glassware instead of basic tray service. The cabin includes complimentary alcoholic drinks and access to self-service snack areas throughout the flight.

Premium Economy Meal Options

Virgin Atlantic serves three main course options, including vegetarian choices, on proper china plates. The meals use fresh ingredients and aim for a restaurant-style dining feel at altitude.

Main Course Categories:

• Meat Options: Cumberland sausage with parsley mashed potatoes, chicken and mushroom pie, roasted duck breast
• Fish Options: Pan-roasted cod with lemon oil, salmon with herb cream, grilled sea bass with crispy capers
• Vegetarian Options: Thai vegetable curry with coconut rice, mushroom pearl barley risotto, mascarpone pasta

Each meal comes with a starter like Caprese salad or a superfood salad with pumpkin seeds. Dessert options include things like a red velvet pancake stack, lemon and mixed berry cheesecake, or sticky toffee pudding with clotted cream.

You can pre-order your meal up to 72 hours before departure on Virgin Atlantic’s website. Special diets are available, including vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, dairy-free, kosher, and halal options.

Premium Economy passengers can also help themselves at “The Wander Wall”—a self-service area with complimentary snacks between meals. You’ll find crisps, chocolates, fresh fruit, and sandwiches there.

Welcome Drink and Beverages

Virgin Atlantic greets you with a welcome drink as you board. You can usually pick from orange juice, water, or sparkling wine.

Once you’re in the air, the full complimentary bar opens up. The crew comes by for regular drink rounds during the flight.

Alcoholic Beverages Include:

• Champagne and Prosecco
• Red and white wine selections
• Beer varieties
• Spirits with mixers
• Liqueurs

Non-Alcoholic Options:

• Soft drinks and fruit juices
• Tea including herbal varieties
• Coffee and hot chocolate
• Still and sparkling water

The cabin crew keeps drinks flowing, but you can always ask for more or just wander over to The Wander Wall. All drinks are part of your Premium Economy fare—no hidden charges for that glass of bubbly.

Virgin Atlantic’s Premium cabin aims for simple, fresh ingredients to make dining at altitude a bit more enjoyable.

Airport Experience for Premium Economy Passengers

Premium Economy passengers get their own check-in area and can board early. The baggage allowance is better than economy, but lounge access isn’t included—you’ll need to pay extra for that.

Priority Boarding and Check-In

At the airport, Premium Economy travelers have a dedicated check-in area. It’s separate from both economy and business class, so you won’t get lost in the crowds.

Virgin Atlantic gives Premium Economy customers priority boarding. You get on the plane before economy, which means you can actually find space for your bag and get comfortable.

Most flights leave from Heathrow Terminal 3, which is Virgin’s main home base. The check-in process feels smoother and less stressful than the main lines.

Gate staff call Premium Economy passengers during boarding. Honestly, skipping the long wait is a relief.

Priority services kick in as soon as you arrive at the airport. Dedicated desks for Premium Economy mean shorter queues and quicker check-in.

Baggage Allowance and Priority Drop

Premium Economy tickets come with extra baggage allowance compared to standard economy. You get additional checked bags included in your fare.

Priority baggage handling means your bags show up earlier at your destination. That’s always a nice perk after a long flight.

The baggage drop follows the priority system too. Separate counters streamline the process for Premium Economy travelers.

Checked bag weight limits match or beat what economy offers. You can pack more without worrying about surprise fees.

This priority baggage service even continues on connecting Virgin Atlantic flights. It’s a little detail, but it helps keep the experience consistent.

Lounge Access and Priority Pass Options

Premium Economy doesn’t include automatic lounge access to the Clubhouse. If you want in, you’ll need to pay separately.

Virgin Atlantic teams up with airport lounge providers for paid access. Economy and Premium passengers can pre-book at discounted rates.

No.1 lounges at Heathrow, Gatwick, Edinburgh, and Birmingham all welcome Virgin Atlantic guests. If you buy in advance, entry is about £28.

Loyalty status, not cabin class, really determines lounge access. Gold-tier members get in for free, no matter what ticket they have.

Booking your lounge spot ahead of time is smart, especially during busy travel periods. Space fills up fast, and advance booking saves you money.

Routes, Partners, and Booking Tips

Virgin Atlantic runs premium economy on most long-haul routes from London. KLM partnerships open up a lot more destinations. You can get the most value by booking at the right time, using miles, or trying your luck with upgrade bids.

Key Destinations and London Connections

Virgin Atlantic flies premium economy on all its long-haul routes from Heathrow and Gatwick. They serve big cities in North America, the Caribbean, Africa, and Asia.

Main routes from London:

• New York (JFK and Newark)
• Los Angeles and San Francisco
• Boston and Washington DC
• Mumbai and Delhi
• Johannesburg and Lagos
• Barbados and Jamaica

Most flights leave from London Heathrow Terminal 3, the airline’s main hub. Some Caribbean flights depart from Gatwick.

There are usually several daily flights to popular spots like New York. That gives you some flexibility when picking premium economy seats.

Flying with KLM and Codeshare Partners

Virgin Atlantic partners with KLM through the Delta joint venture. This makes it easy to access premium economy to more European cities.

You can connect through Amsterdam and reach Virgin’s London services. KLM offers its own premium economy on long-haul routes.

Why the partnership matters:

• Book connecting flights with a single ticket
• Bags checked through to your final destination
• Coordinated schedules at Amsterdam Schiphol
• Shared loyalty perks

Delta Air Lines also offers codeshare connections, so you can get premium economy options from US cities too.

Using Miles and Booking Upgrades

Virgin Atlantic premium economy can be a great deal if you use points. The airline lets you upgrade with Virgin Points or cash bids.

Flying Club members get first dibs on upgrades. Gold and Silver members can pick premium economy seats for free, even if they started with an economy light fare.

Upgrade options:

• Virgin Points redemptions starting at 15,000 points
• Cash upgrade bids from £199 each way
• Last-minute upgrades at check-in
• Auto upgrades for elite members if seats are open

The booking process is pretty clear, with straightforward fare types and amenity details. Premium economy seats usually go on sale about 11 months in advance.

Booking directly on Virgin Atlantic’s site gives you the best shot at upgrades and seat choices.

Frequently Asked Questions

Premium Economy passengers get a real boost: 38 inches of seat pitch, two free checked bags, priority airport services, and the option to pick meals ahead of time. There are bigger entertainment screens, amenity kits, and a welcome drink as you settle in.

What are the added benefits of booking Premium Economy compared to Economy on Virgin Atlantic flights?

Premium Economy travelers get priority check-in and their own baggage drop queues. Two checked bags are included, while Economy usually has to pay for extras.

The amenity kit comes with basics like an eye mask, toothbrush, toothpaste, and earplugs. Economy doesn’t hand out these kits.

Premium Economy seats have universal power outlets and USB charging. Economy seats don’t have AC power at all.

You’re welcomed onboard with bubbly or orange juice. The headphones are better quality too, which is a small but noticeable upgrade.

How much additional legroom do passengers get in Premium Economy on Virgin Atlantic?

Premium Economy gives you 38 inches of seat pitch. That’s about seven inches more legroom than standard long-haul Economy.

Some aircraft have seats up to 21 inches wide—A330-300s are the widest. Airbus A350 and 787-9 Dreamliners have seats about as wide as Economy, but the legroom is always better.

Seats recline 7 to 8 inches and have adjustable headrests and footrests. Just a heads-up: there aren’t full leg rests in Premium Economy.

What is the difference in baggage allowance between Premium Economy and other travel classes on Virgin Atlantic?

If you fly Premium Economy, you get two checked bags included. That’s a big jump from standard Economy, which usually comes with just one.

Economy travelers pay extra for more bags. Upper Class gets even more generous baggage limits than Premium Economy.

The two-bag allowance is great for longer trips or if you’re the type who likes to pack options.

Can passengers pre-select their seats in Premium Economy, and is there an extra cost involved?

Premium Economy lets you pick your seat for free up to 331 days before your flight. No extra fees, just a lot of flexibility.

Economy often charges for advance seat selection. In Premium, it’s included.

You can choose your seat nearly 11 months out. That’s plenty of time to grab your favorite spot.

Seat selection stays free the whole time, and you can change seats within Premium Economy without paying more.

What types of meals and beverages can be expected when flying in Virgin Atlantic’s Premium Economy?

Premium Economy passengers can pick from three meal options between 7 days and 24 hours before flying. This helps you get the meal you want and cuts down on food waste.

The menu includes Mile High Afternoon Tea and special kids’ meals. Vegetarian, vegan, and halal options are available if you need them.

You’ll get a welcome drink—bubbly or orange juice—when you board. Soft drinks, juices, and hot drinks are available throughout the flight.

Alcoholic choices include red, white, and rosé wine, Bombay Sapphire gin, and Jack Daniel’s bourbon. The drinks list is a definite step up from Economy.

How does the in-flight entertainment system in Premium Economy differ from other classes on Virgin Atlantic flights?

Premium Economy cabins come with bigger touchscreen displays than those in Economy. The actual screen size depends on the type of aircraft you’re on.

Airbus A350 aircraft have the largest screens at 13.3 inches in Premium Economy. On the Airbus A330-300, the screens are 10.5 inches.

You’ll find universal power and USB outlets in the entertainment systems, making it easy to charge your devices. Economy seats don’t offer AC power connections for personal electronics, which can be a little inconvenient if you rely on them.

Premium Economy passengers get better headphones than those in Economy. The improved audio gear really does make movies and music a bit more enjoyable during the flight.