IF you thought being able to lay down on a plane was just for first and business class, think again.
United Airlines is introducing a new ‘Relax Row’ making travel in economy much more comfortable.
Launching in 2027, the Relax Row is a dedicated row of three seats that can transform into a ‘couch’, or lie-flat bed.
The seats will be designed with adjustable leg rests that can fold up and mattress pad placed on top.
Travellers can then stretch out whether they want to spend their journey sleeping or watching a film.
The airline said: “The United Relax Row is ideal for families traveling with small children, solo travelers and couples who want the value of United Economy but with a little extra comfort.”
Along with a mattress pad, those on the Relax Row will get blankets, extra pillows, a toy and children’s travel kit.
The new Relax Row will appear on United Airlines aircraft in 2027.
By 2030, the airline said it will be on more than 200 of its Boeing 787 and Boeing 777 widebody aircraft with 12 Relax Row sections on each plane.
Andrew Nocella, United’s Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer said: “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 cost of the new seat option is yet to be confirmed.
United Airlines has other perks for families including free family seating, which allows children under 12 to sit next to an accompanying adult for free at time of booking.
And while United Airlines will be the first North American airline to offer lie-flat seats in economy, there other airlines who already offer this for their passengers.
Air New Zealand has its Skycouch which is the same – a row of three economy seats that transform into a lie-flat bed.
Lufthansa have what they call the Sleeper’s Row which is for long-haul flights that are over 11 hours long.
Passengers get a full row of three or four seats with a mattress topper, pillow, and blanket at the airport.
The additional charge for this is between €169–€249 (£146.28-£215.52).
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