Travel Daily Media

TDM AWARDS - NOMINATE NOW!

Search Results forEconomy Class

Airlines and Aviation

Virgin scraps free food from its economy class

Virgin Australia has scrapped the free food offering in its economy class, with passengers only receiving complimentary water, tea, or coffee on flights. Anyone wishing to eat on board will have to pay. These changes were revealed last November but were probably delayed with the Bain Capital take over. Virgin Australia sent out an email to customers on Wednesday to inform them of the new policy. Customers who booked their economy ticket before 25 March will still be entitled to a complimentary snack, although they will have to flag a flight attendant on board to claim it. The email explained that guests would still receive complimentary water, tea and coffee but that free food in economy class has been abolished. A statement on Virgin's website said the airline had "updated" its food and drink offering. "Complimentary food will no longer be provided to guests who purchase our economy class fares. A variety of food and drinks will be available for purchase from our onboard menu." Business Class in Virgin Australia While Virgin has not yet revealed what items will appear on the menu, a spokesperson said it would feature "tried and tested items we know our guests love such as cheese and crackers and great Australian wine". The move comes as the airline prepares to unveil new meals for business class passengers on the same day free economy food ceases. While it is not yet known whether a high-profile chef will still be involved in creating the business class menu (Luke Mangan had previously overseen Virgin's business class menus), the airline is promising "plated meals" that will be unveiled at a function on Thursday night hosted by CEO Jayne Hrdlicka. A Virgin Australia Group spokesperson said a recent survey found approximately 65% of respondents did not require a complimentary in-flight meal when choosing to book an economy flight with Virgin Australia. “Our new economy buy onboard menu features the tried and tested menu items that we know guests love, including cheese and crackers and Australian wine, delivering greater choice and flexibility,” they added. Business class passengers have been awaiting the return of full meals on Virgin since they were ceased last year due to COVID-19. The airline came under fire for serving up instant noodles to business class passengers on domestic flights during this time.

Air

Vietnam Airlines introduces premium economy class on Hanoi-Ho Chi Minh city route

Vietnam Airlines has announced that from 1 July 2019, premium economy class will be offered on the Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City route, operated by Airbus A350 and Boeing 787-9. This class provides upgraded product and service quality, further affirming the airline’s commitment to delivering the most comfortable flying experience as a four-star airline recognised by Skytrax for four consecutive years. The introduction of premium economy class ensures a new level of comfort for travellers at a price that is only VND 500,000 (USD 21.5) higher than economy flex; a great option to experience business class standards and services without the increased price tag. Premium economy class includes Lotus Lounge access, enhanced food and beverage options, dedicated priority check-in counters and priority boarding lanes to avoid the hassle of queuing. Le Hong Ha, executive vice president of Vietnam Airlines said, “The introduction of our new premium economy class for the first time between Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City is due to the significant premium demand seen on this route, further reaffirming our unwavering commitment to enhancing our product portfolio. This is part of our long-term strategy to retain our four-star rating by continuously upgrading products and services as suggested by Skytrax and to become the first airline in Vietnam to reach for a five-star rating.” The premium economy class has previously been introduced on international flights to the United Kingdom, Japan, Korea, Australia, France and Germany.

Airlines and Aviation

ANA to serve saké in economy class

Sake is brewed from rice All Nippon Airways (ANA) will start serving saké to economy class passengers on its international flights next week. Effective 1 September 2017, the Japanese carrier will include Ichinokura Tokubetsu Junmai saké in its in-flight drinks service. This traditional Japanese rice spirit is brewed in Japan's Miyagi prefecture, north of Tokyo. "Saké is popular in Japan and in many countries around the world. In recent years, many of our passengers have been asking us to serve saké in economy class," said Yuzo Hara, ANA's vice president of products & services strategy. "The number of international visitors to Japan is increasing, and this trend is expected to continue as Japan hosts a number of international events such as the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo in 2020. "Being Japan’s only five-star airline, we want to give all our passengers around the world the opportunity to try quality saké. We hope that our passengers will pair the saké with their meals on board ANA flights, for a full Japanese gastronomic experience." Saké is already served in first, business and premium economy classes on ANA's international flights.

Airlines and Aviation

Asiana creates Korea’s first premium economy class

Asiana's first A350 will be delivered in April 2017 Asiana Airlines will debut its new premium economy class when it launches its first Airbus A350 aircraft in May 2017 The new cabin, known as "Economy Smartium", will become the first premium economy product offered by any Korean carrier. The seats will provide 7-10cm of additional legroom compared with traditional economy class. Premium economy passengers will also be offered priority boarding, airport lounge access at Seoul's Incheon International Airport and other in-flight services. Asiana has ordered a total of 30 A350s, comprising eight smaller A350-800s, 12 standard A350-900s and 10 larger A350-1000s. The model arriving this year will be the A350-900, and the airline has now revealed that these aircraft will be configured with 311 seats - 28 in business class, 36 in premium economy and 247 in economy. No first class cabin will be offered on the A350s. The first four aircraft are due to be delivered this year, with the full order scheduled to be completed by 2025. The first new aircraft will be delivered to Asiana in April and initially deployed on regional routes connecting Seoul with Osaka and Manila from 15 May. Long-haul services to San Francisco and London will then be introduced in the second half of the year. Asiana's twin-aisle aircraft fleet also includes 15 A330s, five A380s and 11 Boeing 777s.

Airlines and Aviation

Emirates opens airport lounges to economy class passengers

Four hours' access to the Business Class Lounge will cost US$100 Emirates has taken the significant step of opening its airport lounges at Dubai International Airport to all passengers, regardless of travel class. Under the new system, economy class passengers will be able to pay to enter the airline's First and Business Class lounges in Dubai, as long as they are a member of the Emirates Skywards frequent flyer programme. Business class passenegrs will be offered the chance to pay for an upgrade to the First Class lounges. Dubai International Airport is home to seven Emirates lounges spread over three concourses. "We made the decision to expand access to our lounges in Dubai based on our customer feedback, and after a careful review to ensure that the same quality experience can be maintained," explained Adel Al Redha, Emirates’ executive vice president & chief operations officer. "We are pleased to see many of our customers appreciate the opportunity to be able to pay for their additional guests and access the lounge which enables them to enjoy a relaxing space and indulge in delicious meals before their flight." The Champagne Bar at Emirates' Dubai lounge Emirates' economy class passengers will be charged US$100 for four hours' access to the Business Class lounges or US$200 for the First Class lounges. Business class can upgrade to First Class lounges for US$100. Silver, Gold and Platinum members of the Skywards programme will continue to receive complimentary lounge access. Facilities at the Business Class lounges include F&B services, showers, a spa, children’s play area and free Wi-Fi. Emirates has a global network of more than 30 airport lounges, and it plans to extend its paid access system to other international lounges in future.

Airlines and Aviation

Cirium’s airfare data shows increases in economy airfares in 2023 in the U.S. and Europe with a decrease in transatlantic business class fares

Cirium, the aviation analytics company, analysed airfare trends for 2023, using Cirium FM Traffic. Economy airfare has generally increased since 2023 in North America and Europe, but lower than the U.S. inflation rate. “While airfare has risen in nominal terms in U.S. and Europe, consumers will appreciate that the increases are less than other consumables,” said Jeremy Bowen, CEO of Cirium. “Cirium’s data teams will continue to monitor the impact on fares of increased capacity in the market, despite challenges related to the availability of aircraft, be it due to groundings, engine issues, or supply chain constraints.” Cirium analysed airfare for the U.S. domestic market (including 13 U.S. airlines), intra-European travel, and the Transatlantic market. The data is non-directionally averaged, in U.S. dollars, not including taxes and fees. Unless otherwise noted, the fares indicated are for economy class. U.S. Domestic Airfare The average U.S. domestic airfare by the 13 airlines was $179.25 in 2023, an increase of 9% since the 2019 average of $164.63. Notably, Cirium also analyzed changes in the U.S. Consumer Price Index from data provided by the Bureau of Labor Statistics, where the inflation rate between 2019 and 2023 was 19%. Accordingly, airfare has risen less than other consumables — 10% lower in real terms. Beginning in August 2023, airfare decreased by approximately 4% compared to the equivalent months in 2022. Fares in December 2023 were 9% lower than December 2022. The U.S. domestic airfare data includes Alaska Airlines, Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Avelo Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Air Lines, Frontier Airlines, Hawaiian Airlines, JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, Spirit Airlines, Sun Country Airlines, and United Airlines. Intra-European Airfare Fares for flights within Europe are 8% higher than in 2022 and 12% higher than in 2019. The average airfare in Europe in 2023 was $104.58 (approximately €96) compared to $93.17 (approximately €85.70)—in each case excluding taxes and fees. Transatlantic Airfare The average transatlantic economy fare in 2023 was $435.17, compared to $410.75 in 2022 and $381.08 in 2019. This is an increase of 14% in 2023 compared to 2019. However, Cirium data indicates that transatlantic business class airfare is 3% lower compared to 2019, with December 2023 business class fares 7% lower compared to December 2019. The average business class fare in 2023 was $1,845. Increase in Transatlantic Capacity Airlines increased capacity in 2023 compared to 2022 and are poised to do the same for summer 2024, according to Cirium Diio Mi schedule data. The transatlantic carriers increased seats flown by 18% in 2023 compared to 2022. And, in the peak summer month of July 2024, the transatlantic carriers will fly almost 375,000 more seats compared to July 2023, with Air France, Delta Air Lines, and Lufthansa among the carriers increasing capacity. This action may reduce airfare on select routes.      

Airlines and Aviation

Malaysia Airlines announces New Year sale on economy and business class flights

Malaysia Airlines, the national carrier of Malaysia and a member of the oneworld Alliance, is excited to announce its annual New Year Sale. On return flights from London Heathrow to destinations worldwide across Southeast Asia and Australasia via Kuala Lumpur, featuring discounts on both economy and business class fares. On sale from 26 December 2022 until 16 January 2023, customers can take advantage of savings on flights for travel between 15 January 2023 and 30 November 2023*. The fares can be booked directly on Malaysia Airlines’ website and mobile phone app or through our travel trade partners. Customers who book through the app will receive a further three percent discount. As the only carrier operating non-stop flights from London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur, and with all-in return rates starting from £595 (approx. USD 716.31) to Phuket, Thailand, travellers can explore up to 22 destinations across Southeast Asia and Australasia, Malaysia Airlines operates out of London Heathrow to Kuala Lumpur with the state-of-the-art Airbus A350-900, which features the signature Business Suite alongside business class and the choice of extra legroom seats in economy cabins, in which all passengers can enjoy our world-class Malaysian Hospitality and cuisine. Daniel Bainbridge, Malaysia Airlines Regional Director UK & Europe, commented: “Our New Year Sale is one of our best deals for our customers and a great way to kick off 2023. Not only does this maximise value for our passengers, our modern A350 aircraft and our signature Malaysian Hospitality provide a premium onboard experience for travellers across all cabins. We are the only direct carrier from the UK to Kuala Lumpur with our twice daily flight service, making us the convenient choice for travellers departing from London Heathrow to Malaysia, with fast connections to our extensive network beyond. Plan ahead for your travel up until 30 November 2023 today to enjoy great deals!”    

Airlines and Aviation

Singapore Airlines Unveils New Economy And Business Class Seats

Singapore Airlines has launched new economy and business class cabins, which will be introduced on the airline’s Boeing 737-8 fleet in the coming weeks. All 154 seats on SIA’s Boeing 737-8 aircraft will be in two classes, with 10 in business class and 144 in economy. The lie-flat business class seats were created by London-based Factorydesign and built by Thompson Aero Seating for Singapore Airlines. Collins Aerospace’s latest generation sleek and slimline seats will be used in the economy class cabin. The aircraft are fitted with Panasonic’s X-Series seat-back in-flight entertainment system, which allows all customers to access the most recent KrisWorld entertainment content. Panasonic’s in-flight Wi-Fi service and mobile data connectivity services would be included in the aircraft. The lie-flat business class seats were created by London-based Factorydesign and built by Thompson Aero Seating for Singapore Airlines. The development, design, and installation of new cabin products on Singapore Airlines’ short and medium-haul narrowbody aircraft cost over S$230 million (approximately A$235 million). Lee Lik Hsin, Singapore Airlines’ Executive Vice President Commercial, said, “A three-year initiative encompassing significant customer research as well as close cooperation with designers and suppliers has resulted in this new product’s release. Now, regardless of the length of their journey, we can provide our customers with a premium travel experience across our entire full-service network. This considerable investment shows Singapore Airlines’ commitment to preserving our position as the world’s leading airline. Despite the recent uptick in air travel demand, our clients can expect the same high-quality products and outstanding service they’ve come to expect from us.” Singapore Airlines (SIA) is gradually introducing its 737-8 aircraft on short- and medium-haul flights across its network. Subject to regulatory permits, this includes flights to and from Brunei, Cambodia, Indonesia, Malaysia, the Maldives, Nepal, and Thailand. Source: Travel News Asia

Features

Lufthansa Redefines Premium Travel with Allegris First Class

Lufthansa is elevating the luxury travel experience with its new Allegris First Class cabin, now bookable for flights starting 30 March 2025. As part of its ongoing premium upgrade, Allegris First Class represents a bold reimagining of comfort and exclusivity for travellers on select routes from Munich to destinations such as San Francisco, Chicago, San Diego, Shanghai, and Bengaluru. A New Standard of Comfort The Allegris First Class suites set an unmatched standard in privacy and luxury: Individual Suites: Ceiling-high walls with lockable doors, wide seats with temperature controls, personal wardrobes, and a 43-inch screen paired with wireless over-ear headphones. Suite Plus: Designed for couples or single passengers, this double cabin features wide seats that transform into a double bed, delivering a flying private room experience. Each suite is thoughtfully crafted to ensure travellers can create their own “feel-good” atmosphere with personal lighting and spacious amenities, redefining the concept of exclusivity in air travel. Expanding the Premium Experience The Allegris First Class cabin is part of a comprehensive Lufthansa premium offensive. Renovated First Class check-in areas and a redesigned lounge at Munich Airport further enhance the passenger experience. Onboard, the Allegris cabin is available across Economy, Premium Economy, and Business Class, debuting on routes to New York-Newark in April, and Charlotte from August. In addition to new cabin designs, Lufthansa is retrofitting its existing fleet, including the Boeing 747-8, ensuring passengers across the fleet benefit from elevated travel experiences. Innovations for All Travellers Lufthansa is committed to bringing sustainable improvements to all passengers. Starting this summer: Unlimited free messaging: Guests on intercontinental flights can stay connected via apps, sending messages and photos from their devices, regardless of travel class. Enhanced onboard services: Under the “Future Onboard Experience,” travellers will enjoy upgraded culinary offerings, new tableware, refined amenity kits, and redesigned onboard service elements—all launching in time for Lufthansa’s 100th birthday celebrations next year. Business Class Upgrades and Loyalty Perks Business Class passengers can enjoy a revamped catering concept on short and medium-haul flights, offering expanded menu options. Frequent flyers will benefit from redesigned lounges, including the recently completed renovations in Newark and London Heathrow, with plans to renovate 30 more lounges this year. Embracing Technology Travellers departing Frankfurt can take advantage of innovative baggage collection services, including the ability to locate their luggage using Apple AirTag technology. Whether flying First Class, Business Class, or Economy, Lufthansa is redefining the travel experience with innovation, comfort, and exclusivity. Ready to experience the Allegris cabin? Visit Lufthansa.com.

Airlines and Aviation

Air India offers premium economy fares starting from INR 599 above economy fares

Air India has expanded its Premium Economy Class offering, fueled by the doubling of premium seat sales over the past three years. To meet the growing demand for premium travel, Air India has introduced Premium Economy fares starting at INR 599 above standard Economy fares on domestic flights for a limited period, offering an affordable upgrade with pricing that varies by route and demand. Air India’s Premium Economy on more domestic India routes than ever  As India’s only airline offering Premium Economy alongside Business and Economy Class, Air India provides this option on 39 domestic routes, with over 50,000 seats weekly. Nearly 34,000 of these seats serve key metro-to-metro routes: Delhi-Mumbai, Delhi-Bengaluru, Delhi-Hyderabad, Mumbai-Bengaluru, and Mumbai-Hyderabad. Following the retrofit of 27 legacy A320s with a new three-class configuration, Air India will boost Premium Economy seats by 30%, exceeding 65,000 seats weekly. The retrofitted aircraft feature brand-new seats across all cabins and will continue to expand route coverage across India and to short-haul international destinations. The perks of flying India’s only Premium Economy Tailored for travellers seeking affordable luxury, Air India’s Premium Economy offers a dedicated cabin with fewer seats than Economy Class and extra legroom, providing a quieter, upscale ambience on board. Air India’s Premium Economy customers enjoy the following benefits additionally: Free selection of preferred seats throughout the cabin Priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling 32-inch seat pitch, 4-inch recline Superior seat upholstery An enhanced dining experience with hot complimentary meals served on premium chinaware Air India now also offers ‘Vista Stream’ across its fleet (except on flights operated by its A350 and upgraded B777 aircraft), offering complimentary wireless inflight entertainment to guests on their personal electronic devices, with a rich entertainment library featuring more than 1,000 hours of content.    

No companies found matching your search.

Return To Home

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Hong Kong 2026

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives,

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Asia 2025

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Malaysia 2025

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Thailand 2025

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Middle East 2025

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Hong Kong 2024

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives,

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Malaysia 2024

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Asia 2024

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Middle East 2024

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards Thailand 2024

Introducing the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards, a prestigious awards programme recognising the pinnacle of excellence in the travel industry. With a keen focus on honouring the best hotels, airlines, airports, cruise lines, tour operators and travel agencies, booking platforms, and travel technology, projects, and initiatives, the TDM Travel Trade Excellence Awards programme aims to spotlight key players that consistently redefine industry standards and elevate customer experiences.

Win the ultimate luxury experience worth over $25,000NZD

In partnership with Queenstown Tourism, here is your chance to spend a week experiencing the best Queenstown has to offer for your clients.

Win the perfect honeymoon with Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel

“There is only one happiness in this life, to love and be loved,” as George Sand once said. A powerful and insightful sentiment from the famous French novelist, and a notion which Royal Orchid Sheraton Hotel & Towers has taken to heart with the launch of The Journey of Love 2018 – a lucky draw campaign aimed solely at brides and grooms planning to celebrate their nuptials in 2018.

ITE Hong Kong 2025 – 12 June (Thu)-15 June (Sun) 2025

The 20th MICE Travel Expo co-locating with the 39th ITE Hong Kong will be held from 12 to 15 June 2025 at Hall 1 of the Hong Kong Convention & Exhibition Centre.

Phuket Hotels for Islands Sustaining Tourism Phuket (PHIST 2025)

Get ready for PHIST 2025 - a learning event for eco-warriors and sustainability champions coming together to make a positive impact!

December 2024 – GXT 2024, Guest Xperience Tech Summit & Expo

The program for the Guest Experience Tech Summit & Expo explores how technology transforms customer experiences across sectors. Through keynote sessions, panels, and workshops, attendees discover topics such as AI, automation, sustainability, and analytics. From reshaping guest interactions with AI and IoT to driving operational efficiency and sustainability, participants gain actionable insights to innovate in guest experiences.

Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2023 – 31st May to 2nd June 2023

The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) is pleased to invite you to participate in the Thailand Travel Mart Plus 2023 (TTM+ 2023): Visit Thailand Year 2023, Amazing New Chapters. The event will be held on 31 May - 2 June, 2023, at Queen Sirikit National Convention Center (QSNCC), Bangkok

Asia Tech x Singapore

Asia Tech x Singapore (ATxSG) 2023 continues as the region’s premier tech festival that brings together enterprise businesses, governments, academia, and technology experts to learn from one another, forge partnerships and prepare for all things connected, digital and immersive.

Phuket Hotels for Islands Sustaining Tourism (PHIST 5)

PHIST (Phuket Hotels for Islands Sustaining Tourism) 2022 is an innovative event rallying the hotel industry and its stakeholders to discuss both environmental sustainability and social impact and governance.

Techsauce Virtual Summit 2020

Techsauce Virtual Summit 2020 launches in lieu of original conference due to COVID-19. Techsauce Global Summit to bring positivity and insight to the masses as it hosts new online conference with world-class speakers

Scroll to Top