Key facts
- United Airlines will offer a special row in Economy Plus on its new Airbus A321XLR aircraft.
- This row will not have a middle seat, instead using the space for a shared table and more elbow room.
- The airline plans to make these seats available for sale later this year.
- United aims to be the only US airline offering this type of seating arrangement.
United Airlines is set to introduce a new seating option in its Economy Plus cabin, featuring a row without a middle seat. This innovative approach, designed to enhance passenger comfort, will utilize the freed-up space for a shared table, offering additional elbow room for both aisle and window seat occupants. The airline plans to roll out this feature on its 50 new Airbus A321XLR aircraft, with sales expected to begin later this year for flights commencing shortly thereafter. United aims to distinguish itself by being the sole U.S. carrier to offer such an arrangement. This move aligns with a broader industry trend of airlines introducing premium add-ons and tiered services to cater to passengers willing to pay for enhanced comfort. Other airlines, including Wizz Air and Air France, have previously introduced options for passengers to purchase neighbor-free seats or entire rows for an additional fee. United's "Relax Row," announced earlier, will also allow passengers to convert a row of three seats into a couch on some Boeing planes. Andrew Nocella, United's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, stated that the company is investing across its fleet to provide customers with choice and value in every cabin.