American airline launches new ‘couches’ in economy that let you turn an entire row of seats into a bed
AN American airline’s plan for new couches in economy has been hailed as a “game changer.”
It means a far more comfortable flight for travelers seeking additional space to sleep.
United Airlines has announced a “relaxed row” to allow travelers to stretch out and have a better rest in economy class.
It involves transforming economy seats into a couch between two rows of seats.
The initiative will provide more comfortable international travel, the airline said yesterday.
“Customers will get a custom-fitted mattress pad, specially sized blankets, extra pillows and a stuffed plush for children to help create a cozy, tranquil environment,” the carrier explained.
“Sounds like heaven to me,” said one thrilled customer.
United‘s relax row option is expected to be available from 2027.
Prices for the perk haven’t been released as yet.
“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,” said Andrew Nocella, executive VP.
Once available, United will be “the first North American airline to offer this kind of seating option and holds North American exclusivity on the design,” the carrier said.
The lie-down couch-style seating will eventually be rolled out across some 1,000 United planes by 2030.
More on United Airlines’ ‘relaxed row’ economy seats that transform into a couch
The option will be available for United customers traveling in the economy cabin on long-haul flights from 2027
A new, dedicated row of three seats will be outfitted with individually adjustable leg rests that fold up at a 90-degree angle.
The formation of the couch will create more room to sleep, stretch out or watch a movie.
Customers traveling in United relax row will receive additional amenities for their international flight.
This includes a custom-fitted mattress pad, a specially sized plush blanket, two additional pillows, as well as a plush toy and children’s travel kit for families.
The airline plans to offer it on more than 200 Boeing 787 and 777 widebody aircraft by 2030.
The seats will be located between United economy and premium plus, with up to 12 relax row sections on each plane.
They aren’t just available for families, as single travelers can also purchase the row, added United.
Source: United Airlines YouTube
Around nine to 12 couches will be available per aircraft.
The seats will have individually adjustable, flip-up leg rests.
These can then be angled to create more room to sleep, stretch out or watch a movie.
Their provision follows a similar option offered by Air New Zealand, which already offers a row of economy seats that convert into a lie-flat couch after takeoff.
Travelers commenting on United’s version have said that it will be worth the extra money.
“I’ve used the sky couch a bunch, and for traveling with young kids on long haul flights it’s an absolute game changer, worth every penny,” raved one flyer on Reddit yesterday.
“I love the skycouch on Air New Zealand and have used it multiple times between the US and Auckland,” wrote another traveler.
“Obviously you don’t get the bells and whistles of a first class seat, but the lie flat feature is the only thing that allows me to sleep on airplanes so for me it’s perfect.”
“Family and I use the Air NZ sky couch every time we travel between NZ/US,” shared one parent.
“It’s a game changer and we always choose Air NZ for that reason. Will start looking seriously at UAL now for our travels.”
