Qatar Airways Launches Enhanced Economy Class

After an entire February of teasing, rumors and leaks, Qatar Airways finally launched its “New Economy Experience” today at ITB Berlin.

And what a February it has been! There were ‘revolutionary’ seat designs, comparison with premium economy and talks of Qatar taking over the entire cross-continental traffic with the new product. However. most of all, there was quiet optimism.

As per my first impressions – its a victory for the latter.

The Details

This is not a “New Economy Experience”. However, it is certainly an enhancement.

First of all, there are no staggered seats (I wonder if a family be comfortable travelling in one of those anyway). Neither are the middle seats pushed back.

So where is the improvement?

• The seats can now be reclined to 19 degrees. I think the standard recline is 15 degrees.
• Due to a fixed shell at the back of your seat, the person sitting behind you will not take offense (This is the best upgrade as per me)
• There is a 13.3 inch 4K entertainment screen
• You have a USB-C port with fast-charging capability

There is also a mention of enhanced legroom although I didn’t see any numbers. However, there were numbers on the percentage increase in your food portions. This, I found in bad taste – its a cultural thing I guess. I do not like others measuring the increase in my portion size.

Conclusion

I welcome this upgrade because I have always been scared to recline my seat in economy. I can do without the ‘angry looks’ of my fellow passengers or a constant push to my seat.

I am skeptical of the USB Type C ports though. I hope they do not do away with good ol’ USB. USB Type C is not the universal standard and Apple has no plans of supporting it (link).

The seats will be rolled out in its A321 Neos from the end of 2019 and also on new aircraft delivered to Qatar Airways. It will be extended to its existing fleet in the medium-term.