United this week unveiled a new Economy offering that will turn a row of three seats into a couch for resting on long-haul flights.
In a United “Relax Row,” three seats will come with individually adjustable leg rests that fold up to 90 degrees, creating more room for passengers to stretch out or sleep. The airline released a video and animation through its social media channels showing how the configuration will work.
Officials said the setup is ideal for families with small children, as well as solo travelers and couples.
Relax Row customers will receive additional amenities to make the seats more comfortable, including a custom-fitted mattress pad, a plush blanket, and two additional pillows, as well as a plush toy and children’s travel kit for families.
The rows are set to debut in 2027, and will be added to over 200 Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft by 2030. They will be positioned between Economy and Premium Plus.
The carrier plans to offer up to 12 Relax Row sections on each airplane.
“Customers traveling in United Economy on long-haul flights deserve an option for more space and comfort, and this is one way we can deliver that for them,” Andrew Nocella, United’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer, said in a news release. “United is the only North American airline offering a product like the United Relax Row and is one of the many reasons why we’re continuing to win brand loyal customers.”
Earlier this week, United announced plans to expand its premium Polaris seats to domestic transcontinental flights. It will also roll out a luxury version of Bombardier’s CRJ-200 with a United First cabin.
