Airfare is diversifying quickly.
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You might have noticed a proliferation of alternative flying options, like business-class-only airlines and semi-private airlines. But the real switch-up is the current state of economy class tickets—and booking the wrong one could have serious consequences for your journey. For example, you might not be able to make any adjustments to your flight after booking if you’re going with basic economy.
IN short, it’s a great time to review how economy seats work. Remember: economy, economy plus, and premium economy are evolving. Economy plus and premium economy, which were sometimes clumped into the same category, are now very different.
For now, let’s cover the main difference between the two cheapest options for buying airfare: Economy and Economy Plus. I also cover how these two fare classes intersect with Premium Economy, which is actually in another cabin.
One last note: Each airline has a different economy class setup. There are traditionally fewer tiers for short domestic flights but more options on long-haul and international flights. I recommend always double-checking with an airline about their economy class features before finalizing your booking. Not only are airlines different, but, again, ticket classes are continuing to evolve quickly.
Economy vs economy plus tickets: key differences
Economy Plus comes with more legroom but not wider seats
The main difference between Economy Plus and regular economy is legroom. You get more legroom in Economy Plus seats—usually between 4 and 6 inches. However, it’s important to know that seats are not wider in Economy Plus sections. (Instead, you’d need to buck up for a Premium Economy ticket to guarantee wider seats.)
Economy Plus has a little more recline, too
While you don’t get wider seats with an Economy Plus ticket, you do usually get seats that recline more deeply. That’s thanks to the extra legroom. Because the seat rows are more spaced out, you can stretch your legs and your back with added reclining power.
Economy Plus comes with overhead bin space and priority boarding
These two features go hand-in-hand. Economy Plus tickets come with priority boarding, meaning you’re the first economy ticketholders to enter the cabin. That guarantees first access to the overhead bins, meaning you can comfortably store your carry-on suitcase without worrying about space.
Economy Plus usually guarantees outlets, too
Economy Plus tickets also come with outlets—at least, in most cases. Narrower planes might not have USB or other outlets, meaning shorter domestic flights probably won’t have any outlets. However, for long-haul flights and international flights, Economy Plus or Comfort+ seats offer either individual or shared charging ports.
Economy seats don’t come with bags—Economy Plus might not, either
When you purchase a basic economy ticket, you (usually) don’t have any free bags, including carry-ons. Aside from a personal item, you need to pay to bring a small suitcase, duffel, or backpack on board. With an Economy Plus ticket, you often have a free carry-on—but that’s not always the case. Double-check that your Economy Plus ticket includes a larger carry-on and not just a personal item.
Economy Plus comes with seat selection, in most cases
Your Economy Plus ticket guarantees that you can choose your seat upon purchase without any upcharges. For a basic economy ticket, you can also choose your seat—but you’ll be paying around $20 – 50 to do so at most major US airlines.
Economy Plus is not the same as Premium Economy
Here’s one of the most important things to know about economy vs Economy Plus: The latter is not the same as a Premium Economy ticket. Premium Economy tickets have their own cabin and are priced more like business class seats. The seats are wider and have more legroom. Menus and drink services are also different.
Economy and Economy Plus tickets aren’t priced that differently. Depending on your flight’s duration, you might pay a few hundred dollars more for added comfort. But Premium Economy tickets usually cost hundreds, if not thousands, more than standard economy seats.
Economy vs economy plus tickets: similarities
Both seats are in the same cabin & receive the same services
Economy Plus seats are located in the front rows of the economy cabin or coach cabin. Basic economy tickets are located behind them. Because of this, both sets of passengers receive the same food and drink services. You’ll be offered the same meals and beverages, in other words. Usually, you can purchase additional menu items, if desired.
Both seats have the same in-flight entertainment for long-hauls
As with food and drink service, the economy cabin also has the same in-flight entertainment options for long-haul and international flights.
