Flights
Why Sign Up for Our Newsletter?
Get Promo Code and Get up to £15 OFF.
Sign up for Crystal Travel emails below to reveal a promo code you can use today.Premium economy represents the sweet spot for Los Angeles flights - offering meaningful comfort improvements over economy without the premium price tag of business class. For the 11-hour journey, the extra legroom, enhanced service, and better dining make a significant difference in arrival condition and overall travel experience.
Modern premium economy products feature dedicated cabins, priority services, and amenities that bridge the gap between economy and business class, providing excellent value for money-conscious travellers seeking enhanced comfort.
This detailed comparison shows all airlines offering premium economy on London to Los Angeles routes. Each airline provides different levels of space, service, and amenities to help you choose the best value option.
All prices shown are average ranges based on July 2025 research and may vary significantly by booking date, season, and airline choice. Premium economy availability subject to aircraft type and seasonal demand.
| Airline | Product Name | Seat Pitch | Seat Width | Average Price Range | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Virgin Atlantic | Premium | 38 inches* | 21 inches* | £900–£1,400* | Bar access, superior amenities |
| British Airways | World Traveller Plus | 38 inches* | 18.5 inches* | £800–£1,200* | Dedicated cabin, refined service |
| United Airlines | Premium Plus | 38 inches* | 18.5 inches* | £850–£1,300* | Enhanced dining, priority services |
| American Airlines | Premium Economy | 38 inches* | 18.5 inches* | £800–£1,250* | Modern aircraft, competitive value |
*Seat measurements are approximate and may vary by specific aircraft configuration. Price ranges subject to change without notice.
Understanding the physical space improvements helps evaluate the comfort value of premium economy for the long journey to Los Angeles. These measurements show significant enhancements over standard economy seating.
Seat specifications shown are typical configurations as of July 2025 and may vary by specific aircraft or airline modifications.
| Measurement | Economy Class | Premium Economy | Improvement | Comfort Impact |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Seat Pitch | 31–32 inches* | 38 inches* | +6–7 inches | Significant legroom increase |
| Seat Width | 17–17.5 inches* | 18.5–21 inches* | +1.5–3.5 inches | Noticeable shoulder room |
| Recline Angle | 4 inches* | 7–8 inches* | +3–4 inches | Better sleeping position |
| Footrest | None | Adjustable* | Full leg support | Enhanced comfort |
| Headrest | Basic | Adjustable wings* | Proper neck support | Improved sleep quality |
*Measurements are approximate and may vary by specific aircraft configuration and airline specifications.
Premium economy passengers receive enhanced service levels compared to economy class. This comparison shows what to expect from each airline's service standards and dining programs.
Service standards shown are typical offerings as of July 2025 and may vary based on seasonal menus, route-specific programs, and operational factors.
| Service Element | Virgin Atlantic | British Airways | United Airlines | American Airlines |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Check-in | Dedicated counters* | Priority processing* | Premium check-in* | Preferred zones* |
| Boarding | Priority Zone 2* | Before economy zones* | Group 2 priority* | Priority boarding* |
| Dining | Enhanced meals on china* | Three courses on china* | Chef-curated meals* | Multi-course options* |
| Beverages | Premium wine selection* | Quality wines included* | Premium spirits* | Enhanced beverage menu* |
| Amenity Kit | Quality toiletries* | Branded essentials* | Travel accessories* | Useful travel items* |
*Service levels subject to operational requirements and may vary by specific flight.
Premium economy pricing fluctuates based on travel dates and booking timing. This seasonal analysis helps identify the most cost-effective periods for enhanced comfort travel.
All prices shown are indicative ranges based on July 2025 research and subject to change without notice. Actual premium economy fares may vary significantly based on specific dates, airline choice, and market conditions.
| Travel Season | Months | Premium Economy Range | Economy Comparison | Value Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Off-Peak | Jan–Feb | £800–£1,000* | vs £403–£550* | Excellent value |
| Shoulder | Mar–May, Sep–Nov | £900–£1,200* | vs £500–£700* | Good value |
| Peak | Jun–Aug, Dec | £1,200–£1,600* | vs £700–£1,200* | Moderate value |
*Price ranges are approximate and may vary significantly based on specific travel dates and booking conditions.
Optimal Booking Timeline:
Booking recommendations based on historical patterns as of July 2025 and subject to change based on market conditions and airline pricing strategies.
| Advance Booking | Economy Savings | Premium Economy Availability | Recommended Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|
| 12+ weeks | High savings potential* | Excellent availability | Book early for best choice |
| 8–12 weeks | Good savings* | Good availability | Optimal booking window |
| 4–8 weeks | Moderate savings* | Limited availability | Still worthwhile |
| Under 4 weeks | Limited savings* | Poor availability | Emergency booking only |
*Savings potential subject to seasonal demand and market conditions.
Various upgrade paths exist for passengers seeking premium economy comfort. Understanding these options helps secure enhanced seating at potentially reduced costs.
Upgrade availability and costs shown are typical as of July 2025 and subject to change based on airline policies, seasonal demand, and route popularity.
| Upgrade Method | Timing | Success Rate | Cost Range | Best Strategy |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| At Booking | Purchase time | Guaranteed availability* | Full premium fare | Planned comfort enhancement |
| Advance Paid | 7–14 days before | High success* | £200–£500* | Flexible booking approach |
| Airport Upgrade | Day of departure | Variable availability* | £300–£600* | Last-minute decision |
| Bid Upgrade | 24–72 hours before | Medium success* | £150–£400* | Budget-conscious option |
*Success rates and costs subject to seasonal demand and operational factors.
The additional space in premium economy provides meaningful health advantages on long-haul flights. These benefits become particularly important on 11+ hour journeys to Los Angeles.
Physical Comfort Improvements:
Health benefits based on typical passenger feedback as of July 2025 and may vary by individual health conditions and flight experiences.
| Health Aspect | Economy Impact | Premium Economy Solution | Benefit Level |
|---|---|---|---|
| Circulation | Cramped conditions* | Space to stretch legs* | Significant improvement |
| Sleep Quality | Poor sleep position* | Better recline + space* | Moderate improvement |
| Hydration | Limited service access* | Enhanced beverage service* | Good improvement |
| Stress Level | Crowded environment* | Calmer cabin atmosphere* | Notable improvement |
| Arrival Condition | Tired and stiff* | More refreshed state* | Substantial benefit |
*Individual experiences may vary based on personal health conditions and flight circumstances.
Different aircraft types provide varying premium economy experiences. Understanding these differences helps set appropriate expectations for your journey.
Virgin Atlantic A350 Premium:
Aircraft specifications shown are typical as of July 2025 and subject to change based on aircraft updates or airline modifications.
| Feature | Specification | Passenger Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Cabin Design | Dedicated section with mood lighting* | Premium atmosphere |
| Air Quality | Enhanced filtration + humidity* | Reduced jet lag effects |
| Noise Levels | Quieter A350 engines* | Better sleep quality |
| Window Size | Larger with electronic dimming* | Natural light control |
| Climate Control | Individual air vents* | Personal comfort management |
*Aircraft features subject to specific aircraft configuration and airline specifications.
Premium economy provides enhanced space and service valuable for family travel. This analysis shows family-specific benefits and considerations.
Family Travel Advantages:
Family benefits shown are typical offerings as of July 2025 and may vary based on specific airline policies and operational factors.
| Age Group | Premium Economy Advantages | Cost Consideration | Value Assessment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Infants | More space for baby care* | Moderate additional cost | Good value for comfort |
| Toddlers | Room to move around* | Worthwhile investment | High value |
| School Age | Enhanced entertainment space* | Justifiable expense | Excellent value |
| Teenagers | Personal space appreciation* | Good investment | High satisfaction |
*Family benefits subject to individual needs and airline service standards.
Premium economy offers enhanced productivity and arrival condition benefits for business travellers. This analysis shows professional travel value.
Business Travel Benefits:
Business benefits based on typical corporate travel feedback as of July 2025 and may vary by individual work requirements and company policies.
| Business Need | Premium Economy Solution | Professional Value |
|---|---|---|
| Arrival Condition | Better rest = peak performance* | High ROI |
| Work Productivity | More space for laptop use* | Moderate benefit |
| Professional Image | Comfortable, unstressed arrival* | Good value |
| Meeting Preparation | Space for document review* | Moderate advantage |
| Client Relations | Enhanced travel experience* | High value if travelling together |
*Business benefits subject to individual work requirements and professional standards.
Premium economy tickets often provide enhanced frequent flyer benefits compared to economy class. Understanding program advantages helps maximize long-term value.
Elite Status Considerations:
Loyalty program benefits shown are current as of July 2025 and subject to change based on airline program modifications and elite tier requirements.
| Elite Status Level | Upgrade Likelihood | Additional Benefits | Program Value |
|---|---|---|---|
| BA Silver/Gold | Good outside peak periods* | Lounge access sometimes* | Worth pursuing |
| Virgin Silver/Gold | Moderate availability* | Priority services* | Decent benefits |
| Star Alliance Gold | Limited on United* | Lounge access* | Some value |
| Oneworld Sapphire | Variable on American* | Priority services* | Moderate benefits |
*Elite benefits subject to availability and airline operational policies.
Premium economy provides 6-7 inches extra legroom (38" vs 31" pitch), wider seats, enhanced recline, priority boarding, better meals on china crockery, and dedicated cabin sections. It costs 60-80% more than economy but offers significant comfort improvements for the 11-hour flight.
Virgin Atlantic leads with 21" wide seats, bar access, and superior amenities. British Airways World Traveller Plus offers 38" pitch and refined service. United Premium Plus and American Premium Economy provide competitive products with good value pricing. All specifications subject to aircraft type.
For an 11-hour flight, premium economy offers excellent value. The enhanced comfort, better sleep quality, improved service, and reduced jet lag often justify the additional cost, particularly for business travel, special occasions, or passengers over 5'8".
Premium economy offers 38 inches of seat pitch compared to 31-32 inches in economy - a significant 6-7 inch improvement. Seat width also increases by 1.5-3.5 inches, providing noticeably more space and comfort. Measurements may vary by aircraft.
Virgin Atlantic offers wider seats (21" vs 18.5"), bar access, and superior amenities, typically costing slightly more. British Airways provides reliable comfort, refined service, and more flight frequency options. Both offer 38" pitch and quality dining. Choice depends on priorities.
Yes, premium economy includes enhanced meal service on proper china with metal cutlery, priority meal selection, premium beverages, and typically higher baggage allowances than economy class. Wi-Fi may cost extra depending on the airline. Inclusions subject to airline policies.
Yes, airlines offer paid upgrades subject to availability. Options include advance paid upgrades (£200-£500), airport day-of-departure offers (£300-£600), and bid upgrade systems (£150-£400). Loyalty program members receive priority for upgrade opportunities. Costs subject to change.
Business class offers lie-flat beds, significantly more space, gourmet multi-course dining, premium lounge access, and suite-style seating. Premium economy provides enhanced comfort but maintains airline-style seating with moderate recline rather than fully flat beds.
Virgin Atlantic's A350-1000 offers the newest technology with enhanced cabin pressure and quieter engines. British Airways' 787 Dreamliner features advanced air filtration and larger windows. Both provide superior comfort compared to older aircraft types. Specifications subject to airline configuration.
