TAIPEI, TAIWAN (February 17, 2025) – EVA Air has unveiled its latest Premium Economy Class seats, offering an industry-best 42-inch seat pitch. The launch took place at Evergreen Aviation Technologies Corporation’s No. 4 Hangar during the “Focus on Evolution: Taking Off with Heart” event, led by EVA Air President Clay Sun. This marks the airline’s first time introducing Premium Economy on a Boeing 787-9, moving beyond an enhanced economy-class experience to a more business-class-like standard. The goal is to provide greater comfort while strengthening its three-class cabin offerings.
Clay Sun highlighted the airline’s commitment to innovation, stating that EVA Air was the first airline to introduce Premium Economy and continues to refine the experience. The newly configured Boeing 787-9 aircraft will initially operate on the Taiwan Taoyuan-Jakarta route, with plans to expand service to Munich, Milan, Vienna, and a San Francisco daytime flight.
The upgraded Premium Economy Class features 28 seats in a 2-3-2 layout. The cradle motion recline system enables the seat cushion to move forward and upward together, providing an 8-inch recline without affecting the passenger behind. A 15.6-inch high-resolution widescreen monitor, multifunctional entertainment controller, and a tray table with a personal device holder enhance passenger convenience. Each seat includes 110V AC and USB combo power outlets to meet modern travel needs.
Privacy is improved with side panels on the headrests and built-in reading lights. Premium leather covers the headrests, armrests, and footrests, enhancing comfort. Additional storage in armrests, seatback compartments, and bottle holders keeps personal items accessible. The aisle seats feature wheelchair-accessible armrests, allowing flight attendants to assist passengers with mobility needs.
EVA Air pioneered Premium Economy, previously called Evergreen Deluxe Class, in 1992. The original 38-inch seat pitch exceeded standard economy-class dimensions and introduced personal TV systems. Continuous upgrades have earned the airline multiple Skytrax awards, including “World’s Best Premium Economy Class Airlines” and “Best Premium Economy Class Airline Seats.”
To elevate passenger comfort, EVA Air is collaborating with British brand HUNTER. Long-haul Premium Economy passengers flying from Taipei to the U.S., Canada, and Europe will receive an olive-green amenity kit, while return flights feature an oatmeal brown version. These stylish kits include a detachable strap and HUNTER-branded skincare products.
The airline continues its focus on sustainability by offering eco-friendly napkins, pillows, and double-sided blankets. High-quality headphones, custom tableware from Italian brand Guzzini, and premium snacks further enhance the onboard experience.
The newly delivered Boeing 787-9 (Registration No. B-17887) is configured with Royal Laurel Class, Premium Economy, and Economy Class. All future Boeing 787-9s will follow this layout. During its ferry flight to Taiwan, the aircraft used a 30% sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) blend, cutting carbon emissions by approximately 63,000 kilograms.
EVA Air plans to expand its fleet with eight more Boeing 787-9s (three-class configuration) and five Boeing 787-10s (two-class configuration) by 2029. Additionally, 18 A350-1000 wide-body aircraft will enter service starting in 2027, followed by 15 A321neo narrow-body aircraft beginning in 2029.
