First Look: EVA Air Unveils New Premium Economy Cabin

Taiwanese carrier EVA Air is redefining its passenger experience with its latest fourth-generation seat design. Unveiled at the airline’s “Focus on Evolution: Taking Off with Heart” event, the new seats set a new industry benchmark with an expansive 42-inch seat pitch—offering passengers unprecedented space and comfort.

For the first time, EVA Air is introducing its Premium Economy cabin on the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, elevating the experience from an “upgraded economy” offering to a near-business-class standard.

Photo: Courtesy of EVA Air

“As the world’s first airline to launch Premium Economy Class, EVA Air has consistently focused on innovation driven by passenger needs and setting industry trends,” said EVA Air President Clay Sun.

“The fourth-generation seats retain the core philosophy of previous generations while enhancing comfort, fashion, and functionality, showcasing our commitment to service innovation and attention to detail.”

The newly configured Boeing 787-9 featuring these seats will debut on the Taipei (TPE)–Jakarta (CGK) route before expanding to key long-haul destinations, including Munich (MUC), Milan (MXP), Vienna (VIE), and a day flight to San Francisco (SFO).

The Cabin

EVA Air’s fourth-generation Premium Economy seats feature a 2-3-2 cabin configuration with 28 seats, enhancing passenger comfort through what the airline calls a thoughtful cradle-motion recline mechanism.

The seat cushion slides forward and upward simultaneously, providing an 8-inch recline without compromising the space of fellow travelers.

Photo: Courtesy of EVA Air

Each seat is equipped with a 15.6-inch high-resolution widescreen monitor and a multi-function entertainment system controller. The tray table features a built-in personal device holder, while 110V AC and USB combo power outlets ensure travelers stay connected throughout their journey.

Photo: Courtesy of EVA Air

According to the airline, privacy is a key component of the new design, with side privacy panels incorporated into the headrests. Premium leather upholstery on the headrests, armrests, and footrests adds a touch of luxury, while ample storage—including seatback compartments and dedicated bottle holders—provides practical convenience.

Photo: Courtesy of EVA Air

Additionally, aisle seats are equipped with wheelchair-accessible armrests to ensure inclusivity for passengers with special needs.

Looking back: First Premium Economy

EVA Air revolutionized air travel in 1992 when it became the first airline to introduce Premium Economy Class, then known as Evergreen Deluxe Class.

At the time, it set itself apart with a generous 38-inch seat pitch and personal in-flight entertainment screens—features that have since become industry standards.

Photo: Courtesy of EVA Air

Over the years, the airline’s commitment to continuous enhancement has earned it numerous accolades from Skytrax, including “World’s Best Premium Economy Class Airline,” “World’s Best Premium Economy Class Airline Catering,” and “Best Premium Economy Class Airline Seats.”

New Amenities

In addition to introducing its new cabin, EVA Air is enhancing the Premium Economy experience with an amenity kit created in collaboration with British lifestyle brand HUNTER.

Photo: Courtesy of EVA Air

Passengers on long-haul routes to the U.S., Canada, and Europe will receive an olive-green kit on outbound flights from Taipei and an oatmeal brown version on return flights.

The kit includes a detachable strap and features HUNTER-branded lotion and lip balm to keep travelers refreshed.

Photo: Courtesy of EVA Air

The Taiwanese airline also prioritizes sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly elements throughout the cabin experience. Passengers will enjoy high-quality pillows, double-sided blankets, noise-reducing headphones, and customized tableware designed in partnership with Italy’s century-old brand, Guzzini.

Fleet Details

EVA Air’s latest Dreamliner aircraft features a three-class configuration, including Royal Laurel Class, Premium Economy Class, and Economy Class.

Photo: Courtesy of EVA Air

According to the carrier, all its future 787-9 deliveries will follow this layout, further enhancing the airline’s comprehensive service offerings.

Looking ahead, EVA Air will take delivery of eight more Boeing 787-9s (three-class configuration) and five Boeing 787-10s (two-class configuration) by 2029.

Photo: Courtesy of EVA Air

Additionally, the airline will incorporate 18 Airbus A350-1000 wide-body aircraft starting in 2027 and 15 A321neo narrow-body aircraft beginning in 2029.

Premium Future

With its latest advancements in Premium Economy Class, EVA Air continues to improve its cabin offerings and enhance the comfort and service of its premium passengers.

Photo: EVA Air Boeing 787-10 Dreamliner. Courtesy of Chad Slattery / Wolfe Air

With more planes on order and an ever-growing network to North America, the Star Alliance member is well prepared for the next decade with a top-notch cabin offering.