As a frequent long-haul traveler with a special focus on Asian carriers, I’ve flown in nearly every configuration from ultra-luxurious first class suites to the most cramped economy cabins. But there’s a sweet spot that often gets overlooked: premium economy. And when it comes to China Airlines, their premium economy product offers one of the more intriguing middle-ground experiences in the market.
Having flown their Premium Economy Class multiple times on the A350-900 and Boeing 777-300ER, I can say it’s not a simple seat upgrade, it’s a completely separate cabin philosophy. But is it truly worth the price over standard economy or a cheaper business class upgrade? Here’s a comprehensive breakdown based on real data, passenger experience, and airline comparison.
What aircraft and routes offer China Airlines Premium Economy?
China Airlines currently operates Premium Economy on its Airbus A350-900 and Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, typically deployed on medium and long-haul routes.
Popular routes with Premium Economy:
- Taipei (TPE) – Los Angeles (LAX)
- Taipei – San Francisco (SFO)
- Taipei – Amsterdam (AMS)
- Taipei – London (LHR)
- Taipei – Sydney (SYD)
These routes range from 10 to 14 hours in flight duration, ideal for evaluating comfort, cabin service, and value.
How is the seat different from Economy and Business?
The Premium Economy product on China Airlines stands out for one simple reason: fixed shell seating. Unlike reclining into the passenger behind you, the seat slides forward within a hard shell, preserving space and privacy.
Seat specifications (A350 & 777):
| Feature | Premium Economy | Economy Class |
| Seat Pitch | 39 inches | 31–32 inches |
| Seat Width | 19–20 inches | 17.5–18 inches |
| Recline | 8 inches (fixed shell) | 6 inches |
| Entertainment Screen | 12”–13.3” HD Touch | 9” HD Screen |
| USB & Power Ports | Yes (2 outlets/seat) | USB only |
| Configuration | 2-3-2 (A350/777) | 3-3-3 or 3-4-3 |
I personally find the shell seat design to be a significant comfort boost, especially when working or sleeping. You get real legroom, a calf rest, and a noticeable sense of separation from the economy cabin. While it’s not flatbed business class, it’s far better than a marginally wider economy seat.
Amenities and Cabin Experience
China Airlines Premium Economy includes more than just a better seat. The extras elevate the experience beyond Economy without straying into Business Class territory.
What’s Included?
- Priority boarding (after Business Class)
- Dedicated check-in counter at major airports
- 2 checked bags (each up to 23 kg / 50 lbs)
- Amenity kit: socks, eye mask, toothbrush, lip balm (on long-haul)
- Slippers and large pillow
- Personal water bottle at seat
- Noise-reducing headphones
The cabin service is handled by a dedicated crew, and the ambience is quieter, with less foot traffic than Economy.
Meal Service: Elevated, But Not Business Level
Food in Premium Economy is a step up from Economy, both in presentation and quality. On my recent TPE–LAX flight, I was offered a choice between Western and Asian meals, including grilled chicken in teriyaki glaze and seafood risotto.
Dining Experience
- Two full meal services on long-haul flights
- Porcelain dishware (no plastic trays)
- Complimentary wine, beer, and spirits
- Special meals (vegetarian, gluten-free, halal) by request
- Hot towels and menu cards provided before service
The portion size is larger than Economy, and the ingredients were noticeably fresher, especially in the seafood and fruit sides. That said, don’t expect dine-on-demand or premium wines like in Business Class.
In-Flight Entertainment and Connectivity
StudioCI IFE System
| Feature | Details |
| Screen Size | 12.1” touchscreen |
| Headphones | Noise-reducing (not noise-canceling) |
| Content | 100+ movies, TV, games, music |
| Language Options | English, Mandarin, Japanese, more |
Wi-Fi Access
Wi-Fi is available on most A350 and B777 aircraft, with packages priced by data usage. Speeds are usable for messaging and browsing, but limited for streaming.
- 30 MB: ~$5
- 100 MB: ~$12
- Unlimited: ~$18 (12–24 hour flights)
What is the cabin layout and atmosphere like?
The Premium Economy cabin is physically separate, usually located between Business and Economy, often with its own dedicated crew. This design matters more than you might think.
- Cabin size: 26–40 seats depending on aircraft
- Seat layout: 2-3-2, avoiding the 3-4-3 density of economy
- Lighting: Customizable LED lighting with mood settings
- Overhead storage: Ample and not shared with Economy
On my recent flight from Taipei to Amsterdam, I was seated in 21K, a window seat in the forward PE cabin. The area was quiet, boarding was faster, and service was more personal. The cabin was cleaned thoroughly mid-flight, a nice touch for long-haul hygiene comfort.
How much more does Premium Economy cost?
The fare difference is moderate and route-dependent. Based on real fare data:
| Route | Economy RT Fare | Premium Economy RT Fare | Price Difference |
| TPE – LAX | $750 | $1,150 | ~$400 |
| TPE – AMS | $870 | $1,320 | ~$450 |
| TPE – SYD | $720 | $1,140 | ~$420 |
In most cases, Premium Economy on China Airlines costs 40%–60% more than Economy, but still 60%–75% less than Business Class fares.
Based on my experience, I’ve found the sweet spot to be fares under $1,300 on long-haul routes. When fares approach $1,500+, you might want to consider discounted Business Class via points or upgrades.
Is it upgradeable via miles or elite status?
Yes. China Airlines uses the Dynasty Flyer Program, and upgrades from Economy to Premium Economy can be requested using miles, or through upgrade bidding.
Upgrade options:
- Bid Upgrades: Available 7 days before departure.
- Mileage Upgrades: Typically 15,000–30,000 miles depending on route.
- Elite benefits: Gold and above may receive complimentary or discounted upgrades when available.
Note: Upgrade space is often limited during peak holiday seasons. From Taipei to U.S. or Europe, I usually see better availability flying mid-week.
How does it compare to other carriers’ Premium Economy?
| Carrier | Seat Pitch | Cabin Width | Meal Service | Seat Recline | Wi-Fi |
| China Airlines | 39″ | 2-3-2002 | Enhanced Economy | 8″ (shell) | Paid |
| EVA Air | 38″ | 2-4-2002 | Similar | 8″ | Paid |
| Japan Airlines | 42″ | 2-3-2002 | Closer to Business | 9″ | Free |
| Lufthansa | 38″ | 2-3-2002 | Standard PE | 8″ | Paid |
| Singapore Airlines | 38″ | 2-4-2002 | Higher-end | 8″ | Free (select) |
China Airlines ranks in the upper mid-tier globally, behind Japan Airlines and Singapore Airlines, but ahead of many U.S. and European carriers. The shell-style seating is what sets it apart in terms of personal space.
What are frequent flyer reviews saying?
User feedback from sites like FlyerTalk, Skytrax, and Trustpilot (2024–2025) reflects strong satisfaction with the Premium Economy product:
Positive feedback:
- Comfortable hard-shell seat and legroom
- Food quality surpassing expectations
- Cabin cleanliness and quiet atmosphere
- Friendly, responsive crew service
Negative feedback:
- Wi-Fi is too expensive for speed offered
- Limited upgrade space on full flights
- Inconsistent headphone quality (some aircraft models)
Overall, the average rating for Premium Economy on China Airlines sits around 4.3/5 on major review aggregators, with most flyers calling it “excellent value for money.”
Who Should Fly China Airlines Premium Economy?
Ideal For:
- Leisure travelers who want extra space without the Business Class price
- Frequent flyers to Taiwan or Asia-Pacific
- Tall passengers needing more legroom
- Travelers booking premium economy with miles for better value
Not Ideal For:
- Business travelers needing lounge access or flat beds
- Those expecting dine-on-demand or ultra-premium service
- Budget flyers on short regional routes where Premium Economy isn’t offered
Is China Airlines Premium Economy worth the upgrade?
Yes, for long-haul flights, and especially when price differences remain under $500 compared to economy. You’ll get:
- Meaningful comfort upgrades (seat, space, rest)
- Better meal service and quieter cabin
- Reliable entertainment and USB/power
- Check-in and boarding perks (on some routes)
While it won’t match the luxury of flatbed business class, China Airlines Premium Economy offers excellent value for mid-tier travelers, business flyers on a budget, and leisure passengers who want to avoid the discomfort of long-haul economy.
Frequently Asked Questions
Does China Airlines Premium Economy include lounge access?
No, not unless you hold elite status in the Dynasty Flyer Program.
Are the seats lie-flat?
No. They are shell-style recliners with generous pitch and leg rests, but not lie-flat.
Do you get a checked bag allowance?
Yes. Two checked bags (up to 23kg each) are included on most long-haul fares.
Is the Premium Economy cabin separate?
Yes. It’s located between Business and Economy with dedicated lavatories and overhead bins.
Can I use Delta SkyMiles to book China Airlines Premium Economy?
Yes, in theory. But availability is limited, and award charts fluctuate based on route.