- Emirates introduces electric Premium Economy seat with full-height privacy screen
- New seat features silent electric adjustment and 4K entertainment screen
- Retrofit programme begins early 2027 across A380 and Boeing 777 fleet
- Premium Economy load factors exceed 85 pc on current Emirates routes
- Initial deployment on London, Paris and Sydney services
Emirates has introduced the aviation industry’s first electric Premium Economy seat featuring a full-height privacy screen, marking a significant advancement in passenger comfort technology. The Dubai-based carrier has developed this innovative seating solution in collaboration with major aircraft manufacturers, with the new product scheduled for installation across its growing fleet of Airbus A380 and Boeing 777 aircraft. This development represents the most substantial upgrade to the Premium Economy cabin since Emirates first launched the class in 2021.
The new seat incorporates electric adjustment mechanisms that allow passengers to modify their position with precision, while the full-height privacy screen creates a semi-enclosed space rarely seen outside Business or First Class cabins. Engineers designed the system to operate silently and efficiently, with the privacy screen retracting fully for takeoff and landing before extending to its full height during cruise. The seat features a 13.3-inch 4K screen, Bluetooth audio connectivity, and a side cocktail table, with the electric controls integrated into the armrest for intuitive operation.
Emirates plans to retrofit its existing Premium Economy-equipped aircraft with the new seats beginning in early 2027, with new delivery aircraft receiving the product from the factory. The airline confirmed that the seat will initially appear on A380 services to London, Paris, and Sydney before expanding to the broader network. This investment comes as Emirates reports Premium Economy load factors exceeding 85 pc across its current routes, with the carrier viewing the cabin class as a crucial differentiator in the competitive long-haul market.
Tim Clark, President of Emirates, shared: “This new seat represents a significant leap forward in what Premium Economy passengers can expect from their travel experience.” Clark added: “The full-height privacy screen combined with electric adjustment controls was developed directly in response to customer feedback over the past four years.” Clark confirmed: “We have invested substantially in this product development to ensure Emirates maintains its competitive advantage in the premium leisure and business travel segments.”
