Air Astana, which operates domestic and international flights from hubs in Nur-Sultan and Almaty in Kazakhstan, has announced it is introducing a new Premium Economy Class on all flights operated by its Embraer 190-E2 aircraft.

Premium Economy Class occupies seat rows from one to 12 and delivers the same levels of service and comfort of the Business Class it replaces, albeit at 35 per cent lower fares. The new product made its debut on domestic flights from Nur-Sultan to Shymkent, Atyrau, Aktobe and Ust-Kamenogorsk and from Almaty to Kyzylorda on 23 November.

The national carrier of Kazakhstan says its Premium Economy seats offer more space and comfort than Economy Class in its attractive two by two, no middle seat layout. It also allows two baggage items at 32 kg each at no extra charge.

According to the airline, Nomad Club members travelling in Premium Economy Class will earn the same Nomad Club points as Business Class passengers and continue to enjoy access to business class lounges and priority at check-in and during boarding.

Air Astana’s sales director Islam Sekerbelov commented: “We always appreciate and listen to our customers’ feedback. Thanks to their comments we can continually enhance and improve our service. The new Premium Economy Class is designed for passengers who value comfort and seek value for money too.  They will still receive the service and privileges of our business class offering.”

Air Astana operates five Embraer E190-E2 aircraft which belong to the family of upgraded E-Jets, offering lower operating costs, emissions and noise levels.

Air Astana was incorporated in late 2001 and commenced operations on 15 May 2002. The carrier’s fleet consists of Boeing 767/757, Airbus A320 family aircraft including A320neo, A321neo and A321LR and Embraer E190 / E190-E2.