United Airlines will begin offering a new row of economy seats that transform into a couch-like, lie-flat space on long-haul international flights starting in 2027.
The dedicated row of three seats in United Economy, called United Relax Row, features individually adjustable leg rests that fold up at a 90-degree angle after takeoff to create extra room to sleep, stretch, or watch a movie. It is designed for families traveling with small children, couples, and solo travelers seeking more comfort while staying in economy class.
Passengers in the United Relax Row will receive a custom-fitted mattress pad, specially sized blankets, extra pillows, and — for families — a stuffed plush toy and Children’s Travel Kit to help make the cabin feel more cozy.
The seats will be located between United Economy and United Premium Plus. United plans to install the product on more than 200 Boeing 787 and Boeing 777 widebody aircraft by 2030, with up to 12 United Relax Row sections per plane.
United is the first North American airline to offer this type of seating and holds exclusive rights to the design in North America.
“As a leading premium airline, we’re committed to delivering new, industry-leading experiences for all of our customers — and the United Relax Row is the perfect example of that,” said Andrew Nocella, United’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer.
“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. 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.”
The new row is part of a broader effort by United to make long-haul travel easier for families.
The airline already provides free family seating through a dynamic seat map that keeps children under 12 next to an adult in their party at the time of booking. It offers children’s meal options on select flights, maintains a curated family section of in-flight entertainment, and supplies a Children’s Travel Kit developed with Sesame Street.
