Imagine a flight where you escape the squeeze of a middle seat without fully committing to the cost of business class. TAP Air Portugal is making that a reality this summer, introducing a new option designed to elevate the economy experience.
The airline is reimagining its long-haul cabin layout on A330 and A321LR aircraft, creating a dedicated space between economy and business. This isn’t about a revolutionary new seat, but about reclaiming personal space – specifically, twelve seats per cabin guaranteed to be neighbor-free.
This isn’t simply about avoiding an elbow war. Passengers opting for this enhanced economy will enjoy a suite of perks typically reserved for higher fare classes. Think pre-selected premium hot meals, a thoughtfully curated amenity kit, and upgraded headphones for immersive entertainment.
The benefits extend beyond the flight itself. Priority check-in, baggage handling, security clearance, and boarding are all included, streamlining the travel experience from start to finish. It’s a clear signal that TAP is focused on enhancing comfort at every stage of the journey.
Flexibility is also a key component. The new ticket option offers more forgiving rebooking and refund policies, providing peace of mind. Frequent flyers will also appreciate the opportunity to earn bonus miles through TAP’s Miles&Go program, which connects to major alliances and hotel groups.
TAP Air Portugal serves ten North American cities, including Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, Newark, New York, San Francisco, and Washington D.C., all with the A330 and A321LR aircraft that will feature this new cabin. Finding this premium economy option should be straightforward for travelers on these routes.
The airline recently unveiled its first U.S. airport lounge in Miami, a partnership with Avianca, further demonstrating its commitment to improving the passenger experience on both sides of the Atlantic. This lounge access complements the enhanced in-flight offerings.
While the exact price point remains to be seen, the combination of space, convenience, and rewards could make this new cabin a compelling choice for travelers seeking a step up from standard economy without the full investment of business class. It’s a smart move to cater to a growing desire for a more comfortable and less stressful flying experience.
