Air France removes the “Economy” from Premium Economy

There’s nothing “Economy” about Air France’s Premium Economy cabin. At least that’s the tone moving forward as the airline’s intermediary cabin between Economy and Business will now be referred to as just “Premium.”

France's flag carrier says it has renamed its mid-range cabin, which first launched in 2009, to underline its move upmarket and the quality of its products and services.

According to the airline, “Premium” is a better reflection of the onboard experience associated with the spacious and comfortable cabin, which also offers a greater sense of privacy.

Premium seats are available throughout the Air France fleet and long-haul network. The latest recliner seat (which reclines up to 124 degrees, and has been widened) is available on select Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 aircraft.

Air France says that almost 80 per cent of its fleet will be equipped with these new recliner seats by the end of 2025.

For heightened elegance, the carrier’s Premium cabin has been redecorated, with new shades of navy blue, Air France’s signature colour, and sky blue, a shade specific to this travel cabin.

The company’s trademark red accent adorns the seat headrests, cushions, blankets, comfort kits and meal trays.

Upgraded French dining

Customers flying Premium receive a glass of welcome champagne (depending on the flight schedule) and a full “French-style” meal service, comprising snacks, a starter, a choice of two hot dishes, cheese and dessert, served in eco-designed tableware with stainless steel cutlery.

The Premium menus are now designed by a French Michelin-starred chef. Since November 2023, Frédéric Simonin, holder of one Michelin star and Meilleur Ouvrier de France, has been creating two hot dishes that are regularly renewed, including a vegetarian option.

Customers can choose between a delicious chicken, prune sauce, peas, red onion compote and asparagus tips, or Trofie pasta bake with porcini mushrooms and asparagus, available on departure from Paris, Pointe à Pitre, Fort de France, Cayenne and Réunion.

The dessert offer features crunchy vanilla puffs, Paris-Brest and chocolate fondant has recently been renewed to appeal to even the most demanding palates.

And now, on flights of over nine hours, a new ice cream offer is available between the meals served during the flight. Available in two flavours – vanilla or milk chocolate with caramelized almonds, these ice cream bars are traditionally made in Provence in the south of France.

Furthermore, a new selection of wines and French beers is exclusively available in this cabin, in addition to champagne.

Xavier Thuizat, Air France’s new head sommelier, will unveil a completely revamped French wine, champagne and spirits list for customers in spring 2025.

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