While most airlines are crunching leg space, Virgin Australia has launched a new seat product that provides more legroom with additional perks.
*Please note, information accurate at time of publishing – April 2017 – and may be subject to change.
The first row of economy on Virgin Australia’s domestic Boeing 737s has long been the exclusive domain of the airlines top tiered frequent flyers, with other passengers locked out of reserving the coveted seating option.
But that is soon to change thanks to the carrier’s latest product launch – Economy X.
Economy X, which will feature in the first three rows of economy and the over-wing exits, will increase the available extra legroom seats by up to 20%.
An Australian aviation first, Economy X will set the airline apart from its competitors with the innovative offering. It will also be available to all passengers for the first time, regardless of frequent flyer status.
Virgin Australia’s entire fleet of 75 Boeing 737 aircraft is being reconfigured, scheduled for completion by end of May.
Group Executive Virgin Australia Airlines John Thomas said: “We know that speed on the ground and space in the air are important to our guests, which is why we’re excited to launch Economy X. Economy X will empower passengers to tailor their travel experience and will give them more choice when they fly. I’m confident that Economy X will be very well received by guests.”
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Domestic Boeing 737 flights
For Domestic flights operated by Boeing 737 aircraft, Economy X will be located in Rows 3-5, as well as the Exit Rows and features:
- A minimum of 3 inches (7.62cm) extra legroom;
- Preferred overhead locker space;
- Priority boarding; and
- Priority security screening.
Economy X replaces Economy Space+ on Short Haul International flights also and will include the above features, as well as Priority Check-in where available.
Long-haul international flights
On long-haul international flights, Economy X also replaces the current Economy Space+ and will offer:
- Extra legroom;
- Premium check-in;
- Premium boarding;
- Designated overhead locker space;
- Guaranteed first meal choice; and
- Premium noise-cancelling headset.
Economy X fee
Economy X is free of charge for Velocity Frequent Flyer Platinum members. Seats can be reserved at time of booking or where available at check-in time on the day of departure.
Companions of Platinum members travelling on the same booking will also be eligible.
For all other Guests, Economy X starts at $29 per person, each way.
Economy X is on sale now and can be purchased when selecting a seat during the booking process or at check-in. When booking your next flight with Well Travelled, simply ask your consultant to reserve the seat at time of booking.
Guide to Economy X by aircraft type
| Aircraft type | Economy X capacity | Economy X location |
| Boeing 737-800 | 30 seats | Rows 3-5; Row 13 & 14 |
| Boeing 737-700 | 24 seats | Rows 3-5; Row 10 |
| Boeing 777-300ER | 57 seats | Rows 20-25; Rows 26 & 39 |
| Airbus A330-200 | 8 seats | Row 28 |
| Embraer E190 | 4 seats | Row 12 |
| ATR | 4 seats | Row 1 |
| Fokker 100 | 5 seats | Row 12 |
| Fokker 70 | 5 seats | Row 11 |
