Virgin Australia rebadges economy legroom seats

VIRGIN Australia has rebadged its Extra Legroom product as Economy Space + and added new options to make it more enticing to passengers.

Passengers who shell out as little $10 one-way for the new product on domestic flights will receive priority boarding, at least 25 per cent more legroom in exit or first row seats along with “preferred” overhead lockers.

A spokeswoman said the preferred lockers would likely be badged but customers taking the new option would also get early access because of the priority boarding.

Choosing the option on short-haul international flights gets access to dedicated check-in facilities and  a more expansive flagship package on the airline’s long-haul Boeing 777-300ERs starts at $50 one-way.

In addition to exit rows, the long-haul product is available in five rows of Economy Space + seating in a secluded cabin area behind premium economy. It also includes premium noise cancelling headphones and a guaranteed first meal choice.

The price will vary by route, market, fare type and time of purchase with the long-haul option costing as much as $165 one way for last minute travellers booking within six days of departure. The option will appear as an extra during the booking process and will be cheaper for those booking further ahead. Passengers can also use Velocity points.

The move follows overseas trends to boost revenue by offering passengers extras for which they are willing to pay and comes as Virgin is changing its fare structure.

Virgin is expanding its ticket options from September 7 in a new “Fares For You’’ structure but unlike US airlines, it is not remove existing domestic flight entitlements such as complimentary baggage, food and entertainment.

“We believe Economy Space+ provides great value and will be very popular with travellers in the main cabin,” said Virgin Australia chief commercial officer Judith Crompton.