Korean Air is preparing to introduce Premium Class, a new premium-economy class offer, on its newly retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER fleet, with the first flights launching on short- and mid-haul routes starting from mid-September.
As part of this launch, Korean Air has invested approximately KRW 300 billion (US$0.22 billion) to fully retrofit 11 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft with completely redesigned cabins, bringing them in line with the airline’s latest aircraft interiors and onboard technology.
Premium Class is positioned between the airline’s Prestige (business) and Economy Class cabins, offering more passenger space and upgraded service than in economy. While pricing varies by route and travel dates, the airline has indicated that fares will generally be around 110% of its normal Economy fares.
The new cabin features 40 seats in a 2-4-2 layout. Premium Class offers approximately 50% more space than the airline’s existing 777-300ER economy-class seats, with a seat pitch of 39 to 41 inches (about 1 metre).
The seats are 19.5in (about 50cm) wide, recline up to 130 degrees, and come equipped with legrests and footrests. The seats also feature ergonomic headrests, with wing-shaped sides to provide additional support and privacy.
Passengers can enjoy an enhanced in-flight entertainment (IFE) experience with 15.6-inch 4K resolution seatback displays, which are larger than the previous monitors in Prestige Class on the same aircraft.
On international routes, Premium Class passengers will be offered a single-tray meal service, including a main course dish, appetiser, and dessert from the Prestige Class menu, served on Armani/Casa tableware. Beverages, including wine, coffee, and tea options, are the same as those served in Prestige Class.
Premium Class passengers will also benefit from priority ground services, including access to Morning Calm check-in counters, priority baggage handling, and Sky Priority boarding.
The launch of Premium Class coincides with a complete cabin interior overhaul of the airline’s Boeing 777-300ER fleet, inspired by the design of Korean Air’s latest aircraft. The B777-300ERs now feature Korean Air’s newest seating products, including ‘Prestige Suites 2.0’ in a 1-2-1 configuration for Prestige Class, and ‘New Economy’ in a 3-4-3 layout. Wi-Fi connectivity is available across all cabins, and the IFE systems have been upgraded.
“We’re committed to bringing the fully redesigned Boeing 777-300ER and new Premium Class to as many customers as possible,” said a Korean Air representative. “This fleet upgrade has been in progress since 2018 and, after delays due to the pandemic, we’re proud to now offer an elevated travel experience that meets our passengers’ evolving needs.”
