Does premium economy get cheaper closer to flight?

The Premium Economy Gamble: Does Waiting Pay Off?

Premium economy. That sweet spot between cramped coach and luxurious business class, offering a tantalizing upgrade without the hefty price tag (usually). But what if you could make that tantalizing upgrade even sweeter? The burning question for many travelers is: do premium economy fares actually get cheaper closer to the flight?

The short answer is: maybe. Unlike the steadfast (and often frustrating) predictability of some fares, premium economy pricing is notoriously fickle. While you’ll often see prices hovering between 15-30% more than a standard economy ticket—and sometimes even doubling the cost—the closer you get to departure, the more likely you are to stumble upon some unexpected deals.

Why the fluctuation? Airlines constantly adjust their pricing based on a complex algorithm considering factors like demand, seat availability, and even competitor pricing. As the departure date looms, airlines are more incentivized to fill those remaining premium economy seats. If they’re struggling to sell them, they might significantly slash prices to avoid flying with empty seats. This creates a window of opportunity for savvy travelers.

However, it’s not a guaranteed win. While last-minute deals are possible, they’re not a certainty. You risk missing out entirely if the airline fills its premium economy cabin before prices drop. The strategy also necessitates flexibility—you need to be prepared to travel on the selected dates and times, with less room for itinerary changes.

Consider these factors before adopting a “wait-and-see” approach:

• Your risk tolerance: Are you comfortable with the possibility of paying more, or even missing out on the flight altogether, if you wait?
• The popularity of your route: High-demand routes are less likely to see drastic price drops.
• The airline’s pricing policies: Some airlines are more prone to last-minute discounts than others. Research past pricing trends for your chosen airline and route.
• Your flexibility: Can you easily change your plans if a better price doesn’t materialize?

Ultimately, deciding whether to book premium economy early or gamble on a last-minute discount involves weighing the potential savings against the risk of paying more or missing out. Thorough research, monitoring prices closely using flight comparison websites, and a healthy dose of patience might just land you that luxurious upgrade at a significantly reduced cost. But remember, sometimes the early bird truly does get the worm (or, in this case, the premium economy seat).