Emirates has unveiled a new electrically adjustable Premium Economy seat that will be installed on newly delivered Airbus A350 aircraft. Its key new feature is an electrically operated, full-height privacy divider between every seat, which the airline says is the first of its kind in this travel class.

The new seats will be arranged in a 2-3-2 configuration, with the Premium Economy cabin accommodating a total of 28 passengers. Each seat is 20 inches, or approximately 51 centimetres, wide, while seat pitch on the Airbus A350 reaches up to 39 inches, or around 99 centimetres.

Passengers can raise or lower the privacy divider using the seat controls and lock it in their preferred position. This creates a more secluded personal space for resting, working or dining during the flight.

It is also the first fully electrically adjustable Premium Economy seat in the Emirates fleet. Passengers can change their seating position at the touch of a button, with predefined settings available for relaxing and dining. The seat reclines into a cradle-like position without encroaching on the personal space of the passenger seated behind.

As part of the new product, Emirates is introducing the U-Dream headrest manufactured by Safran Seats. The leather headrest features adjustable side wings that provide support for the head and neck, while a manually deployable leather footrest offers additional comfort.

Each seat is equipped with wireless charging for compatible devices, another feature being introduced to Emirates Premium Economy for the first time. A USB-C port is also provided, along with a tray table featuring an integrated mobile phone holder, allowing passengers to use their personal device as a second screen.

The ice inflight entertainment system is displayed on a 13.3-inch 4K HDR touchscreen. Newly delivered Airbus A350 aircraft will also feature an expanded external camera system. In addition to the existing forward and downward views, passengers will be able to watch camera feeds from the left and right sides of the aircraft.

Emirates is retaining its existing Premium Economy service concept, which includes regionally inspired menus served on Royal Doulton fine china, accompanied by linen napkins and Robert Welch stainless-steel cutlery. The beverage selection includes Chandon Vintage Brut 2021, available exclusively to Emirates Premium Economy passengers.

On selected routes from September, passengers will also be offered Chablis Premier Cru Jean-Marc Brocard 2024 and La Parde de Haut-Bailly 2014. In October, Wiston Estate Brut NV will become the first English sparkling wine served by Emirates and will be offered exclusively in Premium Economy on routes to and from the United Kingdom. The airline says it has invested more than US$1 billion in its wine programme since 2006.

Passengers on long-haul flights will also receive reusable amenity kits developed in partnership with United for Wildlife. The bags are made from bio-based materials, including a cactus leather alternative, and contain Aveda skincare products, socks, an eyeshade, earplugs and a dental kit.

Emirates introduced its Premium Economy product in 2022 and has since been gradually expanding it across a growing number of aircraft and destinations. The product is currently available in all markets served by the airline’s Airbus A350 fleet.

The new generation of seats continues Emirates’ efforts to bring its Premium Economy offering closer to standards previously associated primarily with Business Class. Alongside greater personal space and electric seat adjustment, the full-height divider demonstrates that privacy is becoming an increasingly important element of competition in the cabin positioned between Economy and Business Class.