KLM to debut premium-economy cabin on North America routes later this year

KLM will launch its premium-economy cabin on routes to North America later this year, the SkyTeam carrier confirmed on 27 May, as it starts to roll out the new product across its widebody fleet. The launch will be the realisation of an ambition announced by the Dutch flag carrier in February 2020, on the eve of the Covid-19 pandemic, to bring KLM’s product slate into line with that of transatlantic partners Air France, Delta and Virgin Atlantic. Outlining its plans for the premium-economy product in more detail, KLM does not specify which aircraft will receive the cabin first, but does say customers will be able to book the class for “a growing list of destinations” from late July this year, spearheaded by North American services. The product itself – dubbed ‘Premium Comfort’ – is described as an “entirely new in-flight class” for the airline, which will complement its business- and economy-class offerings. Compared with the latter class, customers will have larger seats, more legroom and a larger screen, alongside a “distinctive” catering product and other baggage and check-in service upgrades. The seats have been sourced from Collins Aerospace, which is supplying an “upgraded” MiQ seat.<br/>