{
  "id": 19710775,
  "title": "Fed up with cramped economy seats? These five airlines offer a better way to fly",
  "url": "https://urgent.news/2026/11/12/fed-up-with-cramped-economy-seats-these-five-airlines-offer-a-better",
  "topic": "finance",
  "section": "Finance & Markets",
  "published": "2026-11-12T21:42:49.000Z",
  "source": {
    "name": "Euro Weekly News",
    "slug": "euro-weekly-news",
    "url": "https://euroweeklynews.com/2026/11/12/fed-up-with-cramped-economy-seats-these-five-airlines-offer-a-better-way-to-fly/"
  },
  "original_language": "en",
  "account": "Five airlines have been recognized for their premium economy offerings in the 2026 World Airline Awards. The accolades, presented by aviation rating organisation Skytrax, went to EVA Air, Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Cathay Pacific, and Virgin Atlantic. EVA Air, a Taiwanese carrier, claimed the top spot, crediting its long-standing introduction of premium economy services in 1992. Its Boeing 777-300ER aircraft offer a generous 38 inches (96.5cm) of seat pitch, wider seats, and improved onboard amenities. Emirates secured second place, highlighting its leather seats, adjustable headrests, calf and footrests, larger entertainment screens, and upgraded meals. Singapore Airlines came in third, offering around 38 inches (96.5cm) of seat pitch, wider seats, and additional recline, along with priority boarding and a premium dining experience. Cathay Pacific claimed fourth place, featuring premium economy cabins with up to 40 inches (101.6cm) of seat pitch, adjustable leg rests, and additional recline. Virgin Atlantic rounded out the top five, offering priority check-in and boarding, two checked bags, and an enhanced onboard dining experience. Despite the comfort and services offered, the price of premium economy can be a significant factor, ranging from hundreds of euros per flight segment. Travel expert Katy Nastro of flight-tracking app Flighty notes that the cost can approach €690 per flight segment, though discounts and booking strategies may make upgrades more affordable. The aircraft configuration is another crucial consideration, as airlines vary their premium economy offerings across their fleets. For long journeys, the extra space and reclining comfort may justify the expense, but for shorter trips, travelers might find better value in other areas.",
  "summary": "Anyone who has spent hours squeezed into an economy seat on a long-haul flight knows how uncomfortable travelling can become. […]",
  "key_points": [
    "EVA Air leads premium economy awards with 38-inch seat pitch",
    "Emirates secures second place with leather seats and reclines",
    "Virgin Atlantic offers priority check-in and enhanced dining"
  ],
  "editors_take": null,
  "illustration": null,
  "coverage": {
    "outlets": 1,
    "also_reported_by": []
  },
  "ai_generated": true,
  "disclaimer": "Summaries, key points and the editor’s take are written by software from other outlets’ reporting and may contain errors — always check the linked original."
}