How to Upgrade My EVA Air Economy to Premium Economy?

EVA Air premium economy is a solid step up: Wider seats, more legroom, better food. If you’re flying long haul, it makes a difference. But how do you upgrade from economy without overpaying or getting stuck in system errors? That is exactly what we’re breaking down here at WingsTravo—no hype, just facts. Upgrading on EVA Air can be easy, or frustrating. Totally dependent on your fare, route, and timing. Some upgrades are offered automatically. Others need to be requested. And not all tickets are eligible. Let’s walk through it all.

How Do I Upgrade my EVA Air Economy to Premium Economy?

There are several ways to try and move up:

• At booking: If premium economy seats are available, EVA Air sometimes shows you the upgrade offer while booking your economy seat. That’s the cleanest option.
• Through “Manage Booking”: Log in with your booking reference. If your fare class qualifies and premium economy has space, you’ll see an upgrade option listed.
• During online check-in: If EVA has unsold premium economy seats, you may see an upgrade offer for a fixed fee.
• At the airport counter: Sometimes, gate agents offer discounted upgrades if the premium cabin isn’t full.
• Via EVA bidding system: In some cases, EVA Air allows you to bid for a seat in premium economy. If your bid is accepted, you get upgraded.

Before trying any of these, check your fare rules. If your ticket is a restricted economy class, upgrades may not be available at all.

If you’re unsure, call EVA Air at 1-800-695-1188 or 1-888-413-6950 and ask if your booking qualifies.

What is the difference between Premium Economy and Economy on EVA Air?

The differences aren’t flashy, but they matter—especially on longer flights.

Here’s a quick breakdown:

• Seat width:

             Economy seats are about 18 inches. Premium economy bumps that up to nearly 20.

• Legroom:

             Economy offers around 31–32 inches. Premium economy gives you up to 38 inches.

• Recline:

            You’ll get more recline in premium economy, which helps with actual rest.

• Footrests and headrests:

            Premium seats have adjustable footrests and a much better headrest setup.

• Meals:

            Meal presentation and quality are better. Not business-class level, but clearly above economy.

• Check-in and baggage:

            Premium economy passengers often get priority check-in and more baggage allowance.

• Cabin experience:

            Fewer people. Quieter. Less traffic. It feels closer to business class than to economy.

If you’re flying 8 hours or more, the upgrade can change your entire experience.

How much does it cost to upgrade to premium economy from economy on EVA?

No fixed price. That’s the tricky part.

Upgrade fees depend on:

• Route
• Seat availability
• Fare class
• When and how you request the upgrade

Here’s a ballpark:

• On medium-haul routes (like Taipei to Tokyo): upgrades can start around $150–$250 USD.
• Long-haul routes (like LAX to Taipei): you may pay $350–$600 USD.

If you’re offered an upgrade at check-in or through bidding, it might be cheaper than booking premium economy outright.

One thing to note: EVA’s upgrade offers are sometimes not refundable. Once you pay, you’re locked in.

You can always call EVA Air at 1-800-695-1188 or 1-888-413-6950 to ask for the current price based on your flight.

Can I use miles to upgrade to EVA premium economy?

Yes, but it depends on your fare.

Not all economy tickets are eligible for mileage upgrades. Fully discounted or promo fares usually don’t allow it.

To use miles:

• You need to be a member of EVA’s Infinity MileageLands program.
• You can request the upgrade through the mileage portal or by calling customer service.
• The number of miles needed varies by route.

Mileage upgrades are limited, so booking early or asking well in advance gives you the best chance.

Is bidding for an upgrade worth it?

Sometimes. If EVA invites you to bid, they’ll set a minimum and maximum range. You offer what you’re willing to pay. If accepted, you’re upgraded. This only happens for select flights and fare types. There’s no guarantee.

But here’s the upside: bidding can be cheaper than paying the upgrade fee directly—especially if the premium cabin hasn’t sold well. It’s worth checking your inbox for an upgrade invitation after booking.

Upgrading from EVA Air economy to premium economy may not be a piece of cake. But it can be worth it if your flight is long and your body’s begging for space. Just make sure your ticket allows it, and always compare the upgrade cost to what you paid for your original fare.

When in doubt, contact WingsTravo or EVA Air at 1-800-695-1188 or 1-888-413-6950 for the clearest answer tied to your booking. And for real, honest travel help without all the noise, keep WingsTravo bookmarked.