United is introducing a new regional aircraft built from an existing platform as it continues to reshape its small-jet fleet.
The airline announced the CRJ-450, a “reimagined and redesigned” version of the aging CRJ-200, which will be operated by SkyWest. The 41-seat aircraft is expected to enter service this fall, connecting smaller cities with United’s hubs in Denver and Chicago O’Hare.
United said the CRJ-450 is designed to deliver a more premium onboard experience than traditional regional jets of similar size. While standard CRJ-200s typically feature an all-economy configuration, the aircraft will feature a United First cabin with a large luggage closet in place of overhead bins.
In the Economy cabin, passengers will have access to overhead bins large enough to accommodate rollaboard bags — a feature that is uncommon on regional aircraft in this category. The cabin will also include updated trim and finishes aligned with United’s larger mainline fleet.
The CRJ-450 will also be equipped with Starlink Wi-Fi, which will be available free to MileagePlus members.
United described the aircraft as a first-of-its-kind regional jet designed to “evoke a feeling of a private jet experience.” The type builds on the airline’s earlier introduction of the CRJ-550, which entered service in 2019 as a modified CRJ-700 with just 50 seats.
By 2028, United expects to operate more than 50 CRJ-450s alongside nearly 120 CRJ-550s. SkyWest currently operates 74 CRJ-200s under the United Express banner, according to Cirium Fleet Analyzer data.
