Now boarding: First look at Emirates' new premium economy cabin

The luxuries of business and first class are a distant dream to most, but with Emirates premium economy landing in Melbourne, a taste of the high life is becoming more affordable.

What is premium economy?

Several companies including Qantas, Singapore Airlines and ANA have been offering premium economy for a number of years.

Recently Emirates has joined the mix, providing the option from Sydney since August 1, 2022, and is now launching a Melbourne service from April 20, 2023.

For a higher price, jet setters can enjoy a less crowded cabin, larger seat, gourmet foods and other benefits.

The option is proving popular with customers; in Sydney demand for Emirates premium economy has exceeded expectations, with 90 per cent uptake since August 1.

What does Emirates offer in premium economy?

Emirates premium economy provides passengers with a separate 56-seat cabin, with comfy leather seats in a two-four-two configuration.

Each seat comes with a 13.3-inch screen and walnut-wood-finished side cocktail table.

Premium economy passengers can also enjoy a gourmet menu of regionally inspired foods, and are given a choice of main course.

How does it compare to different classes?

There is a distinct difference between the feel of premium and standard economy. One of the biggest differences is there are only eight seats in each premium aisle, compared to 10 seats in economy class.

This allows for larger seats which are 19.5 inches wide; wider than the equivalent in economy, and the aisles are also roomier, making it easier to navigate the cabin.

Importantly, there is also better access to toilets in premium economy, with three restrooms dedicated to the 56-seat cabin.

The decor is also an upgrade, inspired by Emirates private jet service, the cream leather and wood finishings match the furnishings in business and first class.

But, while premium economy may look like business and first class, the rows of seats are more comparable to economy than the separate booths available to business and first class passengers.

Are there other benefits?

Emirates has incorporated some light touches to make premium economy feel like business class. For example, passengers are greeted with a welcome drink.

Another great benefit is its position by the front door of the aircraft. This means premium economy passengers can be the first to disembark the plane.

Speaking at the premium economy launch, divisional vice president Australasia at Emirates Barry Brown said the offering was not too dissimilar to business and first class cabins from past decades.

"[Emirates premium economy is] as close to a business class product as you can actually get, while still calling it premium economy," he said.

How much will it cost?

The most important question is, how much more will premium economy cost passengers?

As airline fares fluctuate throughout the year, it's difficult to put an exact figure on it, but the simple answer is about twice as much as a standard economy ticket.

From October 1, Emirates lists a return flight to London to be approximately $2000. In comparison, the equivalent premium economy ticket is priced at just over $4000.

This is still significantly cheaper than business class tickets, which start closer to $10,000 for a return journey.

But in good news for jet setters, the launch of premium economy is just one way Emirates is planning to increase its Australian operations in 2023.

In the next few months, the airline will be increasing services between Sydney and Brisbane and Dubai, and has already increased flights from Melbourne in 2023.

Mr Brown said Australia was one of the most important markets in Emirates' global network.

"Alongside continued increase of operations as we make a strong rebound, we are committed to offering Australians more choice in how they travel, and look forward to offering travellers [from] Melbourne an exceptional new experience," he said.