Virgin Atlantic Introduces Mid Class Premium Economy

In March 1992, we announced Mid Class, a new enhanced economy offering designed to provide passengers with greater comfort and space on long-haul flights. Positioned between Economy and Upper Class, the product was developed primarily for business travellers who needed more room to work or relax but whose travel budgets did not extend to premium business-class fares. It introduced a new level of choice for customers seeking additional comfort without the cost of Upper Class. Mid Class featured wider seats with a 38-inch seat pitch, providing substantially more legroom than standard Economy. Passengers also benefited from a separate cabin section, dedicated check-in arrangements, pre-departure drinks and individual television monitors. The service was formally presented in April 1992, with installation and introduction across the fleet planned for the following months. These features established a distinct offering between traditional economy and business-class travel. The introduction placed Virgin Atlantic among the earliest airlines to develop what became known as premium economy, alongside Taiwan's EVA Air, which introduced a comparable product in 1992. Mid Class was renamed Premium Economy in November 1994 and subsequently became Premium in March 2018. The original concept established a lasting third cabin category within our long-haul offering, giving customers greater choice in seating, comfort and service.