Jet2, the budget-friendly airline known for package holidays, has unveiled a new premium charter product featuring a specially configured Boeing 737-800NG with reduced seating and enhanced amenities. The aircraft will offer just 76 seats instead of the standard 189, providing a business class layout with ample legroom of at least 43 inches and upgraded catering tailored to charter customers' needs.
Exclusive Charter Availability
The new premium service is exclusively available to Jet2's charter customers, not those on scheduled holiday flights. Trevor Caplis, head of charter and airline sales at Jet2, said: "We expect it to be popular with our sports, music, entertainment and specialist group customers. As a result of this brand-new product, our charter customers can now enjoy all the usual operational and cost-effective benefits of Jet2, but with the added benefit of a premium charter product too."
Enhanced Comfort and Catering
Every seat offers a minimum of 43 inches of legroom, superior comfort levels, and upgraded catering that can be customized to customer preferences. This marks the first time Jet2 has introduced an aircraft with such a configuration. The airline stated that the product responds to demand from its growing customer base, particularly clients requiring privacy, comfort, flexibility, and an elevated travel experience.
Jet2 Routes from Birmingham Airport
Jet2 operates flights to over 50 destinations from Birmingham Airport for the 2026/2027 season, including popular routes to Alicante, Tenerife, Malaga, Palma de Mallorca, and Faro. New routes for 2026 include Palermo in Sicily and Tallinn for Christmas markets, with additional flights to Jersey starting in May 2027.
Comparison with Competitors
Budget carrier Wizz Air introduced its own 'budget business class' offering, dubbed Wizz Class, last year. This premium upgrade is available at booking for front-row seats, with only four seats per flight. Wizz Class provides an unoccupied middle seat, a complimentary snack and drink, priority boarding, and a 10kg trolley bag. It is currently available on selected routes to and from Budapest, Bucharest Otopeni, London-Luton, London-Gatwick, Rome Fiumicino, and Warsaw.
Other Innovations in Air Travel
Air New Zealand has introduced economy bunk beds, known as the 'Skynest', on its ultra-long haul route between New York and Auckland. Passengers can reserve a four-hour slot in a sleep pod featuring a privacy curtain, fresh bedding, an amenity kit with eye mask and earplugs, a seatbelt for turbulence, and practical additions like lighting and USB ports.
