Economy comfort vs premium economy: are they the same?
Usually not, but it depends on the airline. "Economy comfort" and similar "comfort" products are often extra-legroom economy seats: the same seat width and basic service as economy, with more space and perks such as early boarding. Premium economy is usually a separate cabin with wider seats, more recline, and better meals. A few airlines do use "comfort" as the name for their premium economy, so check the seat width, pitch, and what's included rather than going by the name.
How the classes differ
| Extra-legroom economy ("comfort") | Premium economy | Business | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Seat | Standard economy width | Wider seat, more recline | Wide seat, often lie-flat on long haul |
| Legroom | A few extra inches | More than economy | Much more |
| Cabin | Front of economy | Separate small cabin | Separate cabin |
| Service | Economy meals, maybe free drinks or snacks | Upgraded meals, amenity kit | Full premium service, lounge access |
| Baggage | Usually same as economy | Often a higher allowance | Higher allowance |
Examples
- Delta: Delta Comfort (formerly Comfort+) is extra-legroom economy; Delta Premium Select is the true premium economy cabin.
- United: Economy Plus is extra legroom; United Premium Plus is premium economy.
- American: Main Cabin Extra is extra legroom; Premium Economy is a separate cabin.
Is it worth paying for?
- Extra-legroom economy is good value on medium flights or for tall travelers.
- Premium economy is most worthwhile on long-haul flights, especially overnight, when the wider seat and recline help you rest.
- Business class is the choice if you need to lie flat and arrive rested, but it often costs several times more.
FAQ
What are the main classes on a plane?
Economy, premium economy, business, and first. Many airlines also sell extra-legroom seats within economy.
Is Delta Comfort worth it?
It gives more legroom, priority boarding, and dedicated overhead space on many flights. For long or full flights, many travelers find it worth a modest fee.
Is business class worth it over premium economy?
On long overnight flights, a lie-flat bed is a big step up. On daytime or shorter flights, premium economy often gives most of the comfort for much less.
Is economy comfort considered premium economy?
Usually not. Airlines and booking sites treat extra-legroom seats as economy, so the fare, baggage and service rules of economy apply.