United Airlines’ President Scott Kirby slipped news about a potential new domestic premium economy offering into an investor briefing this morning. What will it look like? When will it roll out? What will it replace? Of course, no answers to these important questions, but here are some interesting ideas to consider as United moves forward on this effort.
economy class
Can a new recline reshape long-haul economy travel?
Does the type of seat recline make much of a difference for long-haul, economy class travel? The Quadra from Optimares is a unique seat option that just might change the passenger experience.
JetBlue’s A320 retrofit finally underway
More than two years after initially announced the JetBlue A320 retrofit program is finally underway. The first aircraft is now in the shop and will exit with at least one previously undisclosed surprise on board.
Boeing, Adient shake up the aircraft seats market
Boeing wants a bigger piece of the overall profits from the planes it sells. Getting into the seating business is the latest move on that front. A new joint venture with Adient brings the seating market in house, likely ruffling a few feathers along the way.
American Airlines highlights Basic, Premium successes
Is Premium Economy or Basic Economy a bigger deal for American Airlines? The short answer is “yes” though President Robert Isom offers some interesting stats to consider about the profits the company is seeing from the two products today and where they are expected to go.
Taking the COMAC ARJ21-700 for a ride
It is one of the most rare commercial aircraft types flying today, an the future looks shaky at best. Welcome on board the COMAC ARJ21-700, a marvel of engineering, though not necessarily for the right reasons.
Boeing v Airbus on spaciousness and in-flight comfort
What makes a passenger comfortable in flight? What does it mean to have enough space on board? Airbus and Boeing take decidedly different approaches to answering that question, ultimately affecting every part of the passenger experience.
Airbus’ Airspace A320s to Launch with JetBlue
More shoulder room? Larger overhead bins? Better window views? Airspace by Airbus delivers these changes and more in A320 cabins with JetBlue signed on as the global launch customer for the product.
Bugs and quirks day one: American’s 787 in-flight entertainment + connectivity
American Airlines’ latest and greatest planes have in-flight entertainment and connectivity (IFEC) systems to match. Alas, they weren’t working so well on day one of service but hopefully those bugs are worked out quickly.
American Airlines’ $2bn commitment to catch up
A $2bn budget means American Airlines business class seats are getting an upgrade. So are lounges. But is it just a case of keeping up with the Andersons or is there really something special here?