Finally?! Carriers Improve Economy Class
by Michele McDonald /The new year is shaping up to be the Year of Improved Customer Experience as airlines unveil plans for major product enhancements.
While previous improvements have focused on premium passengers—producing flat beds and lavish bedding in business class and posh new lounge features—the latest round aims to make life in the air more pleasant for economy passengers.
‘Refreshing’ enhancements
Delta is “refreshing” its economy cabins on its mainline domestic narrow-body fleet of 757-200s, 737-800s, A319s and A320s.
Among the most welcome features is power at every seat, providing an unusual level of consistency. Its medium-haul and long-haul fleet types will have seatback video at every seat.
A more controversial feature is the new “slimline” seat. Made with lighter, less bulky materials, the seat allows airlines to add more seats to an aircraft without sacrificing legroom.
Some passengers say they feel more cramped; others say they see no difference.
Roomier overheads
In any event, more passengers mean more carry-ons and less common space overall, but Delta seems to have put some thought into that issue. It is putting in roomier overhead bins and more efficient galleys that take up less space.
It also is updating lavatories, an area that hasn’t gotten much design attention in recent memory.
Renovated boarding area
United Airlines’ newly renovated Boarding Area E in San Francisco International’s Terminal 3, which was the site of the old American gates, reopens on Jan. 28.
Gate areas are often the seventh ring of hell for airline passengers who don’t have access to lounges, but United is promising “ultra-modern, flyer-friendly conveniences that elevate their travel experience.”
The area will have a view of the airfield and the Bay Area from a window wall, an interactive information and entertainment area called the Flight Deck, an interactive play area for the kids, and comfortable seating, including Fritz Hansen “egg chairs” and swivel lounge chairs.
New amenities
The area will offer free Wi-Fi, a popular amenity among frequent flyers.
Last but not least, the area will include a yoga room for those who want to get back in touch with their chakras between flights.
United expects to move its existing Terminal 1 Boarding Area B operations, which primarily comprise regional flights, to Terminal 3 by mid-May, simplifying connections for customers.
It will open a new United Club in summer 2015.