Star Alliance - Air New Zealand Premium Economy

Does anyone have any experience in the LAX-AKL Premium Economy section? From what I have been able to deduce, it is roughly equivalent to the United "Business" class on trans-pacific flights (e.g., LAX-PVG). Is that correct? Is there any advantage (save for lie flat beds) to bump up to "Business" or what I would consider "First"??

The cost difference is huge. My budget could absorb either number, but I'm thinking that I can be a budget hero for pulling together a RT ticket for under $3000, all-in (ORD-AKL) -- especially at the end of year.

Let me know...Thanks!

Does anyone have any experience in the LAX-AKL Premium Economy section? From what I have been able to deduce, it is roughly equivalent to the United "Business" class on trans-pacific flights (e.g., LAX-PVG). Is that correct?


I travelled in premium economy earlier this year from LHR-HKG on NZ . It is not a business class product and is not marketed as such . The seats and seat pitch are an improvement on regular economy but they are definitely not equivalent to old style business class seats . The catering is the same as J but served all at once which actually makes the tray table a bit crowded . There is no lounge access . The Business Premier on the other hand is true lie-flat with every seat having direct aisle access . If I could afford it ( which , sadly , I cant :( ... my 3 sectors in Business Premier have all been upgrades paid with mileage :) ) I would certainly purchase it rather than premium economy .

Be aware that if you are on the 777 the premium economy is 9 abreast exactly the same as regular economy so the seats are no wider . On the 747 it is better as it is all paired seats unless you are on the left hand side upstairs - the upper deck is 3+2 and I have to admit that I would have not be happy to pay the difference between regular Y and premium Y to find myself in one of those seats .

In short - on 777 not worth it, go for business; on 747 premium economy is fine.

Kiwif Flyer, is it worth standby upgrade of $A220 on the 777? I'm wondering if I should give up a window seat to likely get a middle seat PE.