MONTREAL — Not quite a Business Class – and at the same time, much more than an Economy Class – Air Transat’s Club Class has been winning over fans for more than a quarter of a century.
To learn more about this popular product, we asked Marie-Christine Pouliot, Head of Marketing Relations and Digital Content at Transat, a few questions. Seven, to be precise!
1. How would you describe Air Transat Club Class?
Pouliot: “Club Class offers a premium travel experience that includes superior comfort, a comprehensive dining experience, and premium airport services. It’s designed for those who want to travel in a refined, relaxing and attentive setting.
Air Transat Club Class includes …
- A spacious cabin for more comfort
- Reclining seat with footrest and six-position adjustable headrest
- 38″ pitch between seats
- Comfort essentials: blanket, sleep mask, socks, toothbrush, toothpaste, lip balm, hand cream
- A gourmet menu
For flights to / from Europe, Morocco and Peru …
- Two meal services: a full course (main course and sides) and a light meal
- Up to six main course choices available for pre-order (three available onboard) for lunch and dinner
- Two choices of main courses for lunch upon pre-order
- Selection of wines (two reds, two whites, one sparkling wine), beers and spirits
- Unlimited sweet / savoury snacks and drinks
- Meals served on porcelain dishes
For flights to / from the South and the U.S. …
- Meal service with two main course choices
- Selection of wines (two reds, two whites, one sparkling wine), beers and spirits
- Unlimited sweet/savoury snacks and drinks
- Meals served on porcelain dishes
- Priority services and exclusive benefits
- Priority check-in, boarding and baggage delivery
- Fast-track access to security checks at select airports
- Generous baggage allowance: one carry-on bag, one personal item and two checked bags of 23 kg each
2. How does Club Class compare to the competition?
Pouliot: “It compares to an upgraded Economy Privilege class, but with several distinct advantages, including a varied gourmet menu and attentive and warm service.
“It features an exclusive cabin with 12 seats, among the most spacious in their class, which can be deployed in a 2-2 (A321LR) or 2-2-2 (A330) configuration. “The absence of a central seat contributes to increased comfort and a more intimate atmosphere.
“It’s thanks in particular to this Club Class offering that Air Transat was named Best Leisure Airline in the World by Skytrax, again this year (and for the seventh year).
3. Who is Club Class for?
Pouliot: “For all travellers who want to optimize their travel experience and who want priority at the airport for greater fluidity, but also for those who are looking for increased comfort and attentive service on board.”
4. Who uses it the most?
Pouliot: “It is particularly popular with solo or duo travellers, whether to celebrate a special occasion or simply to travel in better conditions. It’s perfect for business travellers, couples, or those who simply want to treat themselves a little.
“The majority of passengers using it are aged 55 and over, with a median age of around 58. They are also our most loyal customers who book this cabin most often, attracted by the consistent quality of service and the exclusive benefits this product offers.
5. How much does Club Class cost on average?
Pouliot: “Its pricing is dynamic and independent of that of the Economy cabin. On the market, there is an average difference of two to three times between the price of a Standard Economy ticket and that of a Premium class, depending on the route and demand.
6. How can you get an upgrade without paying full price?
Pouliot: “There are two options. Either you upgrade by auction, in which case Economy passengers can bid up to 26 hours before departure to try to secure a seat in Club Class; or you can opt for an instant upgrade, in which you attempt to purchase an upgrade at the time of online check-in, between 24 and 4 hours before the flight, depending on availability.”
7. Is Club Class being used more and more?
Pouliot: “It’s always been a favourite with our travellers, but we’re seeing an increase in occupancy rates since the introduction of auction and instant upgrades. These options make the Club Class experience even more accessible!”
This story originally appeared at ProfessionVoyages.com, part of The Travelweek Group. For more Club Class details click here.
