What do you get extra on Virgin premium economy?

Frequently asked questions about Virgin Atlantic premium economy. Premium passengers on Virgin Atlantic get two free checked bags, Priority check-in, boarding, and luggage delivery, upgraded meals and a welcome drink, and a roomier leather seat with extra legroom.



Upgrading to Virgin Atlantic Premium in 2026 provides several high-value perks over standard economy. You receive a dedicated check-in desk, priority boarding, and an increased baggage allowance (usually two checked bags). Onboard, the "Premium" cabin features wider leather seats (up to 21 inches) with a 38-inch pitch, meaning significantly more legroom and recline. You are greeted with a glass of champagne or juice upon boarding, and meals are served on real china with stainless steel cutlery. Other extras include a dedicated amenity kit made from recycled materials, "premium" headphones, and larger seatback entertainment screens. While it doesn't offer the lie-flat beds of Upper Class, the extra space and elevated service make it a popular "middle ground" for long-haul comfort.

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Here's what you can expect in Premium Economy seats compared to Economy class:
  • More leg room.
  • Wider seats.
  • Extra inches of seat recline.
  • Power outlets.
  • Larger personal entertainment screens.
  • A larger selection of foods.
  • Greater privacy.


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If not for the wider seats, you should definitely upgrade to Virgin's Premium economy for a superior meal. Back in economy, you may receive a packaged meal with much fewer options, but I was quite impressed with the meal service I had.

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Think of the ideal premium economy as a kind of “business class lite” option, with better meals, fancier cocktails, roomier seats, and upgraded amenities such as dedicated check-in and access to more storage space.

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Priority check-in and boarding: American Airlines premium economy passengers can use the Priority check-in line and board during Group 4 priority boarding.

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If you've saved enough Virgin Points and there is availability in the higher cabin (Premium or Upper Class), the flight can be upgraded*. So if you've already made your booking on a reward flight, unfortunately you cannot upgrade.

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Question: Can you sleep in premium economy? Answer: While passengers cannot lie flat in premium economy seats, the adjustable headrest, as well as extra legroom and reclined seats, make for a comfortable journey. Additionally, many airlines offer comfortable blankets and pillows for a relaxing time.

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How much more expensive is Premium Economy vs Economy? Naturally, the price difference depends on which route and airline you're flying with, but typically you'd expect to pay around 30% more than for a Premium Economy ticket.

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Alcohol. As with most international flights, alcoholic beverages are complimentary for all Virgin Atlantic passengers. Those flying in Premium get a welcome aboard drink of Champagne (or juice or sparkling water if you prefer).

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Bluetooth accessories and headphones We also provide Virgin Atlantic ones for the inflight entertainment system. Wireless keyboards and headphones should be switched off and put away during taxi, take-off and landing. If you're using headphones, please still pay full attention to the safety demonstration as we depart.

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Customers may access the Clubhouse at London Heathrow when traveling in an eligible cabin or through their eligible frequent flyer status. Lounge access varies by airline. Don't see your SkyTeam airline or frequent flyer program listed? Check out the SkyTeam Lounge Finder.

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But if that's also a no-go, then you have one last option. You should ask the lead flight attendant or the flight attendant at the boarding door, said Bobby Laurie, a travel expert and former American Airlines flight attendant.

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How to get a flight upgrade: 9 tricks for bumping up to business
  1. Travel at quiet times. ...
  2. Invest a little to get a lot. ...
  3. Be loyal to your airline. ...
  4. Be early for your flight. ...
  5. Check in later (but not too late) ...
  6. Check your emails. ...
  7. Be nice. ...
  8. Dress to impress.


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On almost every flight, the passengers who get upgrades are either the ones who pay for them (whether in dollars or miles) in advance or frequent fliers with elite status who receive complimentary upgrades as part of their perks. There are very few exceptions, so don't expect to score a free upgrade by just asking.

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Depending on where you're going, you may also find business class and premium economy seating. No matter your fare class, you will be able to choose a seat from the available selection, though how much you'll pay and the associated fees will differ according to your ticket and various other factors.

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Premium economy fits between coach and business class, both price-wise and in terms of placement on the aircraft. A seat in premium economy — directly between the main and business class cabins — is measurably more expensive than an economy ticket — often double the price.

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Business class passengers generally have access to better food, wine, and entertainment options, as well as more legroom and comfortable seating. However, the price difference between business class and premium economy can vary significantly depending on the route and airline.

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  1. Use cards that give free lounge access. ...
  2. Buy a third-party lounge pass. ...
  3. Buy one-time access to a lounge for as low as $23. ...
  4. Find free access with the LoungeBuddy app. ...
  5. Get free access as an active military member. ...
  6. Get an airline or alliance lounge membership. ...
  7. Gain entry with elite points status. ...
  8. Gain access with your ticket.


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Those flying in premium economy don't receive lounge access, but Air France passengers can purchase a daypass to the airline's lounges at select airports.

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