Qatar Airways unveiled its new Economy Class product at ITB Berlin 2019 yesterday. The airline's new product is an economy seat with 4K entertainment, instead of the staggered seating many had expected.

Qatar Airways
Qatar Airways always tries to stay ahead of the curve.

What are the details?

Qatar Airways introduced the new seat at its press conference at ITB Berlin. Almost 200 members of the press attended the conference. Qatar Airways later also tweeted the facts and figures behind its new seat.

New Qatar Airways seat. Photo: Qatar Airways Twitter

Let's take a look at some of its features. First of all, the new seat will offer a 13.3-inch 4K widescreen display. Accordingly, passengers will be able to take full advantage of Qatar Airways' ORYX ONE in-flight entertainment system. ORYX ONE boasts over 4,000 entertainment options including a variety of movies, TV shows, and audio programs. Additionally, passengers will have access to fast-charging type "C" USB ports to make sure their devices stay charged throughout their journey.

Furthermore, the new seat will feature "an innovative 19-degree recline system." Interestingly, the seat will not recline by repositioning the back of the seat. Qatar Airways' new seat actually "reclines" by moving the seat pan forward. There will also be added legroom in the form of "additional knee and shin clearance." Moreover, the seat offers a new adjustable, lightweight headrest for added passenger comfort.

Redeem Your BA Avios for the fabulous Qatar Qsuites
Qatar Airways introduced the Qsuite at the 2017 Berlin ITB conference.

Finally, there will be dual trays so passengers have more table space during their flight.

The seat seems to incorporate some improvements compared to current Economy Class seats; however, I would not necessarily call it revolutionary as originally promised by Qatar Airways.

Quisine

Qatar Airways also introduced "Quisine," a new in-flight dining experience. Quisine will feature new menu items and more choices, as well as larger appetizers, main courses, and desserts.

In addition, Qatar Airways is trying to reduce waste by using more biodegradable and recyclable products instead of the typical single-use plastics.

New Routes

Qatar Airways did not only introduce its new Economy Class seat and "Quisine;" it also announced new routes.

The airline will launch service to the following seven destinations in 2019:

  • Davao, Philippines
  • Izmir, Turkey
  • Langkawi, Malaysia
  • Lisbon, Portugal
  • Malta
  • Mogadishu, Somalia
  • Rabat, Morocco

When can we expect to see the new seat aboard Qatar Airways' aircraft?

The new seat will make its debut aboard Qatar Airways' A321neo aircraft later this year. The airline is also planning on retrofitting its other aircraft; however, this process will most likely take several years. So, if you really want to check out the new seat soon, your best bet is to fly on one of the airline's new A321neos once they enter service.

How do you feel about Qatar Airways' new Economy Class seat? Are you looking forward to checking it out?