United Airlines has announced it is launching the ‘United Relax Row’, a triple economy seat that can be transformed into a couch, opening up a more comfortable option for economy-class customers wanting a more comfortable sleep or family travel option.
Other airlines have introduced similar options, such as Air New Zealand with its Skycouch, but United is the first North American airline to offer this type of seating option, and it holds exclusivity in the North America market on the seat design.
When cabin occupancy allows, customers on international flights can book three seats in a United Relax Row, each of which has individually adjustable leg rests that fold up at a 90-degree angle to create a flat surface on which to sleep, stretch out or watch a movie.
For families traveling with small children, an adult can sit in the aisle seat so that the children can play in the space but not venture into the aisle. It is also a great option for solo travellers who want a good value bed, or couples who don’t mind a bit of a squeeze to gain a little extra sleep comfort.
Customers travelling in United Relax Row will receive additional amenities to help create a bed environment, including a custom-fitted mattress pad, a plush blanket sized to suit the surface, and two additional pillows, as well as a plush toy and children’s travel kit for families.
The United Relax Row is expected to launch in 2027, and the airline plans to offer the option on more than 200 of its Boeing 787 and 777 widebody aircraft by 2030. The seats will be located between United Economy and United Premium Plus, and United will offer up to 12 United Relax Rows on each of these aircraft.
“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, United’s EVP and chief commercial officer.
More perks for child travellers
As in other economy seats on long-haul United flights, there are complimentary children’s breakfast and lunch/dinner menus such as french toast, chicken fingers or grilled cheese (with a pre-order option) family-friendly inflight entertainment including favourites like Bluey, Paw Patrol, Zootopia 2, Paddington in Peru and more, and a Sesame Street branded travel kit with an Oscar the Grouch activity book, slide puzzle and sensory calming strip.
