Virgin to expand Heathrow premium economy seats

Virgin Atlantic has announced that it is to fit out the rest of its fleet of Heathrow aircraft with premium economy cabins.

Currently, the airline's Airbus planes already feature the seats and it expects to roll out the cabin across its Boeing 747 fleet by Christmas.

The premium economy cabin features leather seats measuring 21 inches across, with a pitch of 38 inches. Also included are dual position footrests, lumbar support, adjustable headrests with wings and new tray tables.

Passengers in this class can also take advantage of laptop power supplies, dedicated crew and check-in services, a separate food service and priority boarding, among other benefits.

"Having completed the refit across the Airbus fleet, we are delighted that this product exceeded our expectations and has resulted in a 20 per cent growth in our premium economy passengers," commented Virgin Atlantic chief executive Steve Ridgway.

The airline recently won the accolades of best business and premium economy class in the Business Traveller Awards, as well as receiving the title of best business airline at the Travel Trade Gazette awards.

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