Thai Airways launches lie-flat seats for non-business class passengers: details of the novelty.

THAI Airways presents new Premium Economy Plus seats

According to The Sun: Thai Airways has announced the introduction of new Premium Economy Plus seats that can be transformed into lie-flat beds for passengers traveling in non-business class.

The airline positions the new seats as 'spacious seating' with 'ample legroom and exclusive services during the journey', promising 'a new level of comfort in the sky.'

Images demonstrate seats with a 'fish' design, which are located inside the cabin, and entertainment screens are integrated into the walls.

Features of the new seats

Although this is a new initiative for Thai Airways, some passengers may have already experienced traveling in similar seats on other airlines. Recently, the company acquired Airbus A330-300s that previously flew with Virgin Atlantic and had the same seats.

However, it is worth noting that these seats are not positioned as business class. This has also been pointed out by social media users. One commentator wrote:

“Premium Economy PLUS? these are old, failed Virgin Atlantic business class seats.”

The airline plans to begin operating the first flights with the new seats from Bangkok to Chennai, Dhaka, Hyderabad, Jakarta, and Kathmandu starting October 26, 2025.

Reasons for the change in concept

According to sources, the reason for the introduction of seats under the Premium Economy Plus brand instead of traditional business class is due to insufficient demand. 'By offering business seats in the guise of premium economy class, the airline can better fill its available seats without the additional service costs typically expected in business class,' sources explain.

So far, there has been no information on pricing for the new seats and the possibility of using points or miles for their booking.

Passenger impressions

Head of Digital Travel Carolyn McGuire recently traveled in premium economy with a lesser-known airline. She noted:

“The seats are very spacious. Of course, they are not the same as in Virgin Atlantic or BA, but they also do not demand the same prices.”

The expansion of the Premium Economy Plus class by Thai Airways may provide passengers with new opportunities for comfortable travel on medium and long routes. In turn, the airline hopes to fill empty seats and increase its profitability by offering an alternative to business class amidst changing demand for air travel. Stay tuned for more information on pricing and availability of the new seats in the near future.