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United Airlines is planning to make long-haul economy travel a lot more comfortable by turning regular seats into a bed-like space. It is the first North American airline to offer this type of seating.
The Chicago-based airline has introduced a new concept called ‘Relax Row,’ where passengers can book three adjacent economy seats that come with adjustable leg rests. Each of these can be raised or lowered to create a cosy lie-flat space for stretching out.
"Customers travelling 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," said Andrew Nocella,United's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer.
The Relax Row is basically a normal set of three economy seats, but with a smart upgrade. Each seat has a leg rest that can be lifted up to a 90-degree angle. When all three are raised, the seats turn into a flat, bed-like surface.
Along with the extra space, passengers will also get a mattress pad, a blanket, and two pillows. For those travelling with kids, the United Airlines is even adding a plush toy and a children's travel kit.
The comment section was full of people praising the idea, with many saying it could make long flights much more comfortable.
"Much needed. United is innovating faster than anyone," commented one user.
Another wrote, "Brilliant, you have hooked me for many years, but with this, maybe I am now double hooked. This is super helpful, especially on those night European routes."
One person commented, "This is a brilliant and thoughtful idea to make customers feel more comfortable. Well done!"
"I’ve been doing this with extra seats for a long time when travelling with the triplets, glad that extra adjustable part is being added," wrote the next.
Some users also raised concerns about pricing, saying that booking three seats might end up costing as much as, or even more than, a business or first-class ticket.
One user asked, "While I love the idea, I’m very concerned about the cost. Might be cheaper to go for business or first class?"
Another wrote, "Does this mean you have to purchase a ticket valued at three economy seats?"
When users asked whether they could bring pets or how they would be able to book the entire row, United Airlines said that details are not available yet.
"At this time, we don't have available information for the booking options. When these launch in 2027, we'll have more details and will share them with our customers," the airlines wrote.
United Airlines says the Relax Row will start rolling out next year across more than 200 of its Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft. Each plane will offer up to 12 of these specially designed rows.
The Chicago-based airline has introduced a new concept called ‘Relax Row,’ where passengers can book three adjacent economy seats that come with adjustable leg rests. Each of these can be raised or lowered to create a cosy lie-flat space for stretching out.
The
entire row is alllllll yours.
Welcome to United Relax Row, three adjacent United Economy seats with adjustable leg rests that can each be raised or lowered to create a cozy lie-flat space for stretching out...
You'll also get a mattress pad, blanket and two pillows. If… pic.twitter.com/Q6gcOuXbXo
— United Airlines (@united) March 24, 2026
"Customers travelling 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," said Andrew Nocella,United's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer.
The Relax Row is basically a normal set of three economy seats, but with a smart upgrade. Each seat has a leg rest that can be lifted up to a 90-degree angle. When all three are raised, the seats turn into a flat, bed-like surface.
Along with the extra space, passengers will also get a mattress pad, a blanket, and two pillows. For those travelling with kids, the United Airlines is even adding a plush toy and a children's travel kit.
The comment section was full of people praising the idea, with many saying it could make long flights much more comfortable.
"Much needed. United is innovating faster than anyone," commented one user.
Another wrote, "Brilliant, you have hooked me for many years, but with this, maybe I am now double hooked. This is super helpful, especially on those night European routes."
One person commented, "This is a brilliant and thoughtful idea to make customers feel more comfortable. Well done!"
"I’ve been doing this with extra seats for a long time when travelling with the triplets, glad that extra adjustable part is being added," wrote the next.
Some users also raised concerns about pricing, saying that booking three seats might end up costing as much as, or even more than, a business or first-class ticket.
One user asked, "While I love the idea, I’m very concerned about the cost. Might be cheaper to go for business or first class?"
Another wrote, "Does this mean you have to purchase a ticket valued at three economy seats?"
When users asked whether they could bring pets or how they would be able to book the entire row, United Airlines said that details are not available yet.
"At this time, we don't have available information for the booking options. When these launch in 2027, we'll have more details and will share them with our customers," the airlines wrote.
United Airlines says the Relax Row will start rolling out next year across more than 200 of its Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft. Each plane will offer up to 12 of these specially designed rows.
