V-Flyer

Hi,

I think I've got a really good deal for an NZ flight AKL-LHR via HK (747, so we get the upper deck fingers crossed) for NZ$4287.81 pp.

Having not booked a PE for a long time, I can't really remember the cheapest I've seen them advertised. This is for July 07 and works out at about £1530.

We could have got it a wee bit cheaper if we went via LA, but I think it's worth the extra $300 to go via HK and get the 747 config.

What do you guys think....shall I book it, or hold out to see if Emirates do a business class companion fare ??? There's not many seats left apparently, but I guess travel agents say that all the time.

Milliemoo

p.s I'm thinking we might just have to stop off on the way back for a night at the Pen [:p]

Wahooooo! Just realised that you get Champers in PE on NZ [^]

I might just be able to cope after all [}:)]

Milliemoo

Well, if you do, at least you'll get better value than I did. Air New Zealand has actually upgraded their Premium Economy product which was introduced on all intercontinental flights from last week.

From the Air New Zealand forum on FlyerTalk:

Pacific Premium Economy re-launched on Air New Zealand long-haul services

The relaunch of Pacific Premium Economy on 20 December will continue to set Air New ZealandÕs premium long-haul service apart from our competition.

Pacific Premium Economy has been remarkably successful since its launch in the middle of 2005 with our first re-fitted B747, but it is critical that we continue to meet and surpass customer expectations.

Customer feedback on this class shows that while passengers love the additional leg room and the exclusive feel of the cabin, they would be willing to pay more for an enhanced food choice.

Pacific Premium Economy on all long-haul services will see a significant increase in the level of food and amenities our customers receive. These include pre take-off drinks, printed menus, proper glassware and a full tray meal service - largely the same as the Business Premier service, but with some modifications to create a more simple service flow. Additionally, Business Premier snacks will be available to Pacific Premium Economy customers. TheyÕll also receive hot towels, amenity kits, Living Nature Lip Balm, slippers (JPN / PVG services only) and Premium headsets.

Pacific Premium Economy will be available on all long-haul B747 and B777 dedicated routes. The Tasman and Pacific Islands will continue to have Pacific Premium Economy as we currently know it.


The two aspects I was most disappointed with on my recent flight was the seat, although comfy enough, felt too economy, and the meal service which was definitely economy. I also felt there weren't enough "extras" to distinguish it from normal economy. The new changes address the in-flight service but not the seat issue.

The downside to earning Flying Club miles with Air NZ in Premium Economy is, as I have mentioned already, the rates are exactly the same as normal economy.

Thanks for that. I hadn't seen that info about the extra services etc.

I have to agree about the seat. We we on 7200 in Bus Prem and all the Pac Prem seats are in the next two cabins 3-3-3. I think I said in my TR that it really didn't look that much better than Ec and not worth the extra money.

The big difference with the 747, is getting a seat on the upper deck with the 3-2 config. I have my eye on row 22 [8D] Yes, still the same narrow seats, but it makes a hug difference having 2 seats together and in a seperate quieter cabin upstairs. It suddendly makes it worth the extra $$.

I think I'm going to book it and will definately do a TR on the new improved service.

Milliemoo