Alaska Airlines has opened bookings for its new Premium Class, which offers travelers seats with up to four more inches of space between rows. The airline will debut the new section for travel beginning on select routes starting January 5, 2017, as it continues to retrofit its all-Boeing fleet.
Alaska Mileage Plan MVP, Gold and Gold 75K members will be eligible for complimentary upgrades into Premium Class at the time of booking, or up to 24 hours in advance of travel, depending on status and the fare purchased. Additionally, Alaska customers who aren’t able to upgrade to First Class will see an increased likelihood of getting a seat with more legroom near the front of the cabin, the airline said.
Andrew Harrison, executive vice president and chief commercial officer at Alaska Airlines, said that Premium Class is the most recent example of the airline’s investment in its customer experience, and that the airline would continue to emphasize its policy of offering generous upgrades to its passengers.
First Class Cabin Updates
The aircraft retrofits will also result in significantly expanded legroom in the First Class cabin, which will increase from 36 to 41 or 42 inches, Alaska Airlines said. In addition to the increased legroom, First Class customers will continue to enjoy a seat that is four inches wider, free inflight entertainment tablets, a complimentary selection of fine wines and spirits, and chef-inspired, locally-sourced snacks and meals.
It is expected that nearly half of the fleet will feature Premium Class by the end by the end of 2016, with the balance of planes being reconfigured in 2017. A decision on when the 737-700s will be retrofitted will be announced mid-2017. Alaska will retire its fleet of 737-400s in 2017. The upgrade option will also be available on the Embraer 175s operated by SkyWest Airlines and, soon, Horizon Air.
Premium Class is replacing Preferred Plus, which was only available in exit rows and bulkhead seats. Customers on flights that have yet to be retrofitted, can still can purchase extra legroom starting at $15, during booking, check-in, at the airport, or through the Alaska Airlines mobile app. Once an aircraft is upgraded, exit row seats will no longer be available for purchase.
This article originally appeared on travelagentcentral.com