Iberia to introduce Premium Economy by 2017

MADRID - Iberia joins the Premium Economy band waggon. The new "Turista Premium" class will be available on 37 of its long-haul aircraft, starting during the summer season of 2017. Iberia will retrofit the cabin on eight Airbus A330-300 and 13 A340-600 to be modified in the course of 2017 and 2018.

All 16 new A350-900 to be delivered starting from 2018 will arrive with a factory-equipped Premium Economy at the Spanish IAG carrier.

"Seats in the new cabin will be 19 inches wide and distance between rows will be extended to 37 inches," Iberia said in a statement. "Seats will recline by an additional 40 percent over those on the economy cabin."

Customers flying in Iberia`s Premium Economy class will also enjoy adjustable head and foot rests, noise-cancelling earphones and an amenities kit. "They will have full access to the entertainment programme via 13-inch display screens, instead of the 9-inch screens in Economy class."

Premium Economy passengers will also enjoy other perks like priority in boarding and leaving the aircraft, an extra suitcase allowance and upgraded dining options.

Iberia affiliate British Airways already offers a Premium Economy in its long haul network.