Airline of the Year Unveils Upgraded Cabins, Enhanced Passenger Comfort, and Modernised Services

Korean Air is set to launch its new Premium Class on the airline’s newly retrofitted Boeing 777-300ER, with flights beginning on short- and mid-haul routes from mid-September.

As part of this major upgrade, Korean Air has invested approximately KRW 300 billion to completely retrofit 11 of its 27 Boeing 777-300ER aircraft. The revamped cabins are designed to align with the airline’s latest aircraft interiors and onboard technologies, offering a refreshed travel experience across all classes.

Positioned between Prestige (business) and Economy Class, the new Premium Class delivers more spacious seating and elevated service. While fares vary depending on route and travel date, they typically cost around 110% of standard Economy fares.

The new Premium Class cabin features 40 seats in a 2-4-2 layout, offering approximately 50% more space than standard Economy Class seats. With a generous seat pitch of 39 to 41 inches (approximately 1 meter)—exceeding many premium economy products from global competitors—the seats measure 19.5 inches (about 50 cm) in width, recline up to 130 degrees, and include leg and footrests. Each seat is equipped with ergonomic headrests featuring wing-shaped sides for improved privacy and comfort.

Passengers will also enjoy an upgraded in-flight entertainment system, with 15.6-inch 4K resolution screens—even larger than those currently offered in Prestige Class on the same aircraft.

On international routes, Premium Class travellers will be served a refined single-tray meal featuring a main course, appetizer, and dessert selected from the Prestige Class menu, presented on elegant Armani/Casa tableware. Beverage service includes the same wine, coffee, and tea options as Prestige Class.

Additional benefits include priority ground services: access to Morning Calm check-in counters, Sky Priority boarding, and priority baggage handling.

The launch of Premium Class is part of a full interior overhaul of Korean Air’s Boeing 777-300ER fleet. Drawing design inspiration from the airline’s newest aircraft, the updated cabins now include the latest seating innovations such as “Prestige Suites 2.0” in a 1-2-1 layout for Prestige Class and “New Economy” in a 3-4-3 configuration. Wi-Fi is now available in all cabins, and in-flight entertainment systems have been significantly upgraded.

This fleet renewal has been underway since 2018 but faced delays due to the pandemic. “We’re committed to bringing the fully redesigned Boeing 777-300ER and new Premium Class to as many customers as possible,” said a Korean Air representative. “After years of work, we’re proud to now offer an elevated travel experience that meets our passengers’ evolving needs.”

This latest announcement follows Korean Air being named Airline of the Year by AirlineRatings last year.