36 inches

increased pith of ‘Economy Space’ seats on 10 Etihad Airbus A380s that will be refitted

Etihad Airways announced yesterday it will introduce premium Economy seats across its wide-body fleet by next month, making it the first carrier in the region to launch this cabin class.

By December, Etihad will have refitted its 10 Airbus A380 aircraft with what is branding as “Economy Space” seats, which feature an increased seat pitch of up to 36 inches. The redesign also increases the number of extra-legroom seats in Economy class to 80 seats from 20.

The airline said the redesign is “in response to the popularity and demand for extra legroom seats,” adding that the new seating will provide customers with more choice and personalisation.

In addition to refitting its A380s, Etihad will add Economy Space seats to 12 Boeing 777s and 21 Boeing 787 Dreamliners by the end of 2019, it said.

Etihad said the new seats will benefit families with children, elderly travellers, and those requiring wheelchair assistance.

The move comes as more airlines in the region look at adding premium economy seats. Earlier this year, Emirates said it plans to launch Premium Economy class on its aircraft from 2020.