What’s the Difference Between Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class?

Economy Class is the most low end and easily accessible travel option. It's best possible for passengers who are frugal, especially for short to medium distances. However, comfort is limited, and amenities diverge by airline.

1. Seating:

• Seat Pitch: Economy seats are originated to boost the number of travellers on board, which means settings are basic and narrow. Economy Class provides bounded recline and legroom. Normally, it ranges from 28 to 32 inches. Seat width is usually between 17 to 18 inches. The layout is arranged in tight rows.

2. Meals & Beverages: 

• Long Distance Flights: Nearly all airlines provide one or two proper meals, a snack, and non-alcoholic drinks, sometimes beer/wine.
• Short Distance Flights: Meals are not included, and some airlines charge for refreshments.
• Menu Choices: Menu choices are generally basic veg and non-veg food. But for some special food passengers must book in advance.
• Presentation: Food is served in disposable cutlery.

3. Entertainment: 

• Screens: Personal screens are provided on international flights; local flights may have limited content.
• Content: Content like music videos, TV shows, games and movies. The content is specific compared to premium economy class and business class.
• Other Options: New aircraft offer free or paid  Wi-Fi service and USB charging ports.

4. Baggage Allowance:

• Carry-On: One carry-on bag minimum of 10 kg is allowed, plus some belonging  (like a small duffel bag or purse) is included.
• Checked Baggage: Maximum airlines checked bags are paid on domestic or budget international flights. Some include one free checked bag on long distance or international flights.
• Overweight/Extra Bags: Additional charges can be paid if luggage exceeds the limits.

Premium Economy is the first choice for passengers who are looking for a more comfortable experience than Economy without paying the high fare of Business Class. Premium Economy is specially designed for long-distance flights, including better seats, service, and meals on a budget.

1. Seating:

Premium Economy aqueduct the space between Economy and Business Class, providing an improvement in comfort.

• Seat Pitch: Premium Economy seats are designed to boost the number of travelers on board, which means seat weights are around 18-20 inches and larger recline than Economy class. Also, many premium economy seats have adjustable footrests.

2. Meals & Drinks:

• Meal Service: Better from Economy meals are served in metal cutlery.
• Choices: Meal options are more than Economy; offer quality. 
• Drinks: Alcohol is generally included as a complimentary, along with tea/coffee and soft drinks.
• Presentation: linen napkins and glassware are provided to make it more presentable.

3. Entertainment:

• Screens: Screens are generally larger than Economy Class.
• Content: Content is the same as Economy, but sometimes they provide exclusive content.
• Headphones: Better quality headphones are provided but not usually noise-cancelling.
• Other Options: Usually, standard outlets (AC power and USB ports) are provided.

4. Baggage Allowance:

• Carry-On: Same as Economy, one carry-on bag plus a personal backpack.
• Checked Baggage: 1–2 checked bags are for free, thus all depending on the airline.

Business Class is ideal for travellers whose comfort and privacy are a priority, especially on long-distance routes or overnight flights. It is more expensive than Economy or Premium Economy but offers a near-first-class experience throughout the journey.

1. Seating:

Business Class seats are Prepared for more comfort, especially on long-route flights.

• Seat Pitch: The pitch range is 55–80 inches; fully flat beds like recliners are found mainly on international flights, and spacious layouts are designed to give every passenger more personal space. 

2. Meals & Drinks:

Business Class meal service is equal to a 5-star restaurant:

• Dining Service: A variety of cuisine is often prepared by celebrity chefs.
• Meal Timing: Dine-on-demand, you can place your order whenever you want to eat.
• Drinks: Extensive drinks are served, including cocktails, champagne, premium wines, and speciality coffees.
• Presentation: Cuisine is served in real cutlery with fine glassware and often with linen tablecloths.

3. Entertainment:

• Screens: HD touch large screens are provided.
• Content: Extensive collection of movies, documentaries, TV shows, games and music. Some airlines give early access to movie titles.
• Headphones: High-quality noise-cancelling headphones are provided.
• Other Options: Free Wi-Fi are provided as a complimentary,in-seat power/ USB ports, and satellite TV.

4. Baggage Allowance:

• Checked Baggage: Generally includes two or more checked bags at no extra charges, with good weight limits
• Priority Tags: Tags are mandatory on bags.