In 2026, the gap between "standard" Economy and Business has widened into a chasm. However, the new generation of Premium Economy seats (like those on BA or Virgin) now offers 38 inches of pitch and elevated dining.
Many airlines are now offering "Premium Economy Plus" which includes priority boarding and extra legroom, bridging the gap further. If you are flying overnight, the ability to lie flat in Business is worth the premium. But for day flights, the extra space in Premium Economy is often sufficient.
The Math of Comfort
If a Business Class ticket is £2,500 and Premium is £900, you are paying £1,600 for a bed. For a daytime flight, that's £200 per hour of sleep. Our advice: Splurge on the way out (night flight) and save on the way back (day flight).
