Air France has implemented several changes in a bid to enhance its passenger experience.
This includes the naming of their Premium Economy, which was launched in 2009, to just Premium.
“Designed so that customers can fully enjoy its superior standards of comfort, Premium is available throughout the Air France fleet and long-haul network,” the airline said in a statement.
They added that in the Premium cabin, the latest recliner seats are available on selected Boeing 777 and Airbus A350 aircraft.
“The seat back generously reclines up to 124 degrees and has been widened for extra comfort.”
“There’s also 94 to 97 cm of legroom and an adjustable footrest.”
Meanwhile, the seat foam cushions have also been redesigned and the herringbone pattern fabric has been incorporated to add extra comfort.
In addition, almost 80% of the Air France fleet will be equipped with recliner seats by the end of 2025, which is due to the gradual renewal of the airline’s travel cabins.
“During the flight, customers benefit from a comfort kit designed exclusively for this cabin, a noise-reducing audio headset, a blanket and a pillow for guaranteed relaxation and enjoyment,” Air France explained.
Each seat is also equipped with a wide 13.3-inch 4K-quality Ultra HD anti-glare touchscreen with Bluetooth connection, allowing customers to enjoy over 1 500 hours of on-demand entertainment, with a particular focus on French productions.
“Customers can also connect their personal device directly to the screen and use it as a remote control or browse the in-flight entertainment catalogue.”
“The seat features USB ports and a Wi-Fi connection is also available.”
The cabin has also been redecorated with new shades of navy blue to match Air France’s signature colour.
“The company’s trademark red accent adorns the seat headrests, cushions, blankets, comfort kits and meal trays.”
There have also been upgrades to the cabin’s on-board culinary options.
Passengers will receive a welcome glass of champagne as well as a full French-style meal service. This includes a snack, a starter, a choice of two hot dishes as well as cheese and dessert, which will be served in eco-designed tableware with stainless steel cutlery.
The Premium menu is helmed by leading French Michelin-star chef, Frédéric Simonin, who has since November, been creating two hot dishes that are regularly renewed and includes a vegetarian option.
“Customers can choose between a delicious chicken, prune sauce, peas, red onion compote and asparagus tips, or Trofie pasta bake with porcini mushrooms and asparagus, available on departure from Paris, Pointe à Pitre, Fort de France, Cayenne and Réunion,” the airline added.
To prepare these menus, Simonin worked together with Servair, one of the leaders in in-flight catering. It consists of fresh, local and seasonal produce, as well as 100% French meat, poultry, milk products and eggs, and fish from sustainable fisheries.
Meanwhile, the dessert options include vanilla puffs, Paris-Brest and chocolate fondant.
As a new introduction, passengers will also be able to choose between vanilla or milk chocolate with caramelised almonds ice cream flavours, made in Provence in the south of France, on flights of over nine hours.
There is also a selection of hot and cold beverages, with or without alcohol, to choose from.
Xavier Thuizat, Air France’s new head sommelier, will unveil a completely revamped French wine, champagne and spirits list for customers in spring 2025.
Meanwhile, those travelling in the Premium cabin benefit from SkyPriority, a range of streamlined and priority services at the airport, can check in and drop off their baggage at dedicated counters.
They will also benefit from faster access through security checkpoints and passport control as well as dedicated sales and transfers desks.
“They also enjoy priority at boarding or the option of boarding at their convenience and priority baggage delivery.”