ITA Airways Premium Economy costs more than regular economy. That’s obvious. But is it worth it? This question keeps popping up in travel forums everywhere. You’re probably asking the same thing before booking your next flight to Italy. ITA premium economy sits between regular economy and business class. It’s not cheap, but it’s not crazy expensive either. This is like your middle option when you want comfort but don’t want to break the bank.
What You Get with ITA Airways Premium Economy
Premium economy on ITA Airways gives you more space than regular seats. That’s the main selling point. You also get better food and some perks that economy passengers don’t get.
The seats are wider and have more legroom. ITA Airways Premium Economy uses a 2-3-2 setup on most planes. This means easier access to the aisle compared to the cramped 3-3-3 layout in economy.
The Good Things About ITA Premium Economy
ITA Airways Premium Economy has some real benefits that make the extra cost worth considering. Most passengers notice the difference right away when they sit down. Here’s what actually makes premium economy on ITA Airways better than regular economy seats.
Better Seats and More Space
ITA premium economy seats are definitely more comfortable. You get about 6 inches more legroom than ITA Airways economy seats. The seats are also wider, which helps on long flights.
Premium economy on ITA to Rome flights gives you enough space to actually sleep. The seats recline more than economy seats. This makes a big difference on overnight flights.
Priority Treatment
ITA Airways Premium Economy passengers get some VIP treatment. You can check in faster with shorter lines. You board the plane before economy passengers, which means you can put your bag in the overhead bin without fighting for space.
Your bags also come out first when you land. After a long flight, every minute counts when you’re worn out and want to get to your hotel.
Better Food and Drinks
The food in premium economy on ITA Airways is actually edible. They serve it on real plates instead of plastic containers. You get more choices, too, including decent wine.
ITA premium economy review reports often mention the improved meal service. It’s not restaurant quality, but it’s much better than the mystery meat they serve in economy.
Extra Baggage
ITA Airways Premium Economy lets you bring two checked bags instead of one. Each bag can weigh more, too. This saves money if you’re planning to shop in Italy or bring gifts back home.
The Bad Things About ITA Premium Economy
ITA premium economy isn’t perfect. Some serious downsides might make you think twice about spending the extra money. These problems show up on different flights, and many passengers complain about the same issues.
Price Can Be Too High
ITA premium economy sometimes costs almost as much as business class on other airlines. When the price difference is small, business class becomes the better choice. You need to compare prices carefully.
Not All Planes Are The Same
ITA Airways Premium Economy varies depending on which plane you get. Some older planes still have the old Alitalia premium economy seats. These aren’t as good as the new ones.
ITA A350 business class is on the newer planes, and the premium economy on these planes is much better. But you might get stuck on an older plane with worse seats.
Service Issues
Is ITA Airways good when it comes to service? It’s hit or miss. Some flight attendants are great, and others seem like they don’t want to be there. This inconsistency is frustrating when you’re paying extra money.
ITA Airways premium economy service should be better than what you sometimes get. For the price you pay, you expect more attention from the crew.
Limited Upgrades
Getting an ITA Airways upgrade from premium economy to business class is tough. The airline doesn’t offer many upgrade opportunities. You’re usually stuck in the cabin you booked.
ITA premium classic might be a better option if you’re hoping to get upgraded later.
Who Should Buy ITA Premium Economy
Premium economy on ITA Airways isn’t for everyone. Some people really benefit from the upgrade, while others are just wasting money. Here’s who should seriously consider paying extra for ITA Airways Premium Economy.
- The premium economy of ITA Airways makes sense for certain types of travelers. If you’re tall, the extra legroom is worth it. Business travelers who need to arrive fresh but can’t afford business class should consider it.
- It works well for couples, too. The 2-3-2 seating means you can sit together without someone in the middle.
When to Skip Premium Economy
ITA Airways economy seats are actually fine for many situations. You don’t always need to spend extra money on premium economy. Sometimes, regular economy is the smarter choice for your wallet and your trip.
- Economy seats might be fine if you’re flying short routes within Europe. The upgrade doesn’t make much sense on 2-hour flights. Save your money for something else.
- If premium economy costs more than 50% extra compared to economy, think twice. That money might be better spent on a nice hotel or good meals in Italy.
- ITA comfort economy seat options are sometimes available at lower prices. These give you some extra space without the full premium economy price.
Tips for Booking ITA Premium Economy
Getting the best deal on ITA Airways Premium Economy takes some planning. Smart travelers know a few tricks to save money and get better seats. These tips can help you avoid overpaying and disappointment.
- Book early if you want a premium economy cabin. These seats sell out fast on popular routes. Waiting until the last minute usually means paying more or getting nothing.
- Compare prices with other airlines. ITA Airways Premium Economy pricing is sometimes out of line with competitors. Check multiple airlines before booking your ticket. If the price is right and you value comfort, ITA Airways Premium Economy can make your flight more pleasant. Just don’t expect miracles. At the end of the day, you’re still sitting in a metal tube flying through the sky. The extra legroom just makes it a bit more bearable.
- Check which plane you’re getting. ITA A350 business class planes have the best premium economy seats. Older planes might disappoint you.
- Look for sales and promotions. ITA premium economy sometimes goes on sale during slow travel periods. Sign up for their newsletter to get notified.
If the price is right and you value comfort, ITA Airways Premium Economy can make your flight more pleasant. Just don’t expect miracles. At the end of the day, you’re still sitting in a metal tube flying through the sky. The extra legroom just makes it a bit more bearable.
Frequently Asked Questions:
You get more legroom, wider seats, better food on real plates, priority boarding, and two checked bags instead of one.
It depends on your flight length and budget. For long flights, the extra space helps. For short flights, save your money.
On long flights, yes. The extra legroom and better seats make sleeping easier. On short flights, regular economy is fine.
You can bring two checked bags instead of one. Each bag can weigh more than regular economy bags, too.
ITA Airways uses different booking codes depending on the fare type. Check with the airline or your travel agent for specifics.
You can upgrade during booking, call the airline directly, or sometimes bid for upgrades. Upgrades aren’t always available, though.
Most planes use a 2-3-2 setup. This means easier aisle access compared to the cramped 3-3-3 layout in regular economy.
No, premium economy doesn’t include lounge access. You only get priority boarding, better seats, and improved meals during the flight.
Premium economy seats are wider with more legroom. You also get better food, priority boarding, and extra baggage allowance.
