EVA Air launches fourth-generation Premium Economy Class seats
EVA Air's Premium Economy Class cabin
EVA Air has unveiled its fourth-generation Premium Economy Class seats with a seat pitch of 42 inches. It was presented on February 17 during the “Focus on Evolution: Taking Off with Heart” launch event at Evergreen Aviation Technologies Corporation’s No. 4 Hangar.
Presided over by EVA Air President Clay Sun, the event showcased the airline’s latest seat design. This is the first time the airline has introduced the new Premium Economy Class on the 787-9, elevating the design concept from an “upgraded Economy” standard to a “Business-Class-like” experience.
“As the world’s first airline to launch Premium Economy Class, EVA Air has consistently focused on innovation driven by passenger needs and setting industry trends. The fourth-generation seats retain the core philosophy of previous generations while enhancing comfort, fashion, and functionality, showcasing our commitment to service innovation and attention to detail,” said Clay Sun, President, EVA Air. “The Boeing 787-9 aircraft featuring the new Premium Economy Class will initially serve the Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport (TPE) to Jakarta (CGK) route, with future deployment on flights from TPE to Munich (MUC), Milan (MXP), direct flights to Vienna (VIE), and on the early flight to San Francisco (SFO) in the future.”
The Premium Economy Class features 28 seats arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration. The cradle motion recline mechanism allows the seat cushion to slide forward and upward simultaneously, creating a comfortable recline equivalent to eight inches while preserving space for the passenger behind.
Each seat is equipped with the industry-largest 15.6-inch high-definition screen in Premium Economy Class and a multi-function entertainment system controller. The tray table includes a stand for personal devices, and the seats are fitted with 110V AC and USB combo sockets to meet modern passengers’ diverse needs.
The design emphasizes enhanced privacy with side privacy panels on the headrests and dedicated reading lights. The headrests, armrests, and footrests are upholstered in premium leather. Ample storage spaces in the armrests, under-seat compartments and dedicated bottle holders allow passengers to store and access personal items. A wheelchair-accessible armrest on aisle seats ensures that flight attendants can assist passengers with special needs, the press release said.
EVA Air was the first airline to introduce Premium Economy Class, then known as Evergreen Deluxe Class, in 1992. The seats featured a 38-inch pitch and were the first to come equipped with personal TV systems.
EVA Air is collaborating with the British brand Hunter for inflight amenities. Passengers in Premium Economy Class on long-haul routes to the U.S., Canada and Europe departing from Taipei will receive an olive-green amenity kit, while return flights offer an oatmeal brown version. The design includes a detachable strap for versatile wear and comes with Hunter-brand lotion and lip balm.
