US carrier United Airlines is to give economy passengers on some long-haul routes the option of a bed from 2027.
It will add up to 12 rows of three seats that can be converted into couches, which it says are ideal for families or couples, or for solo travellers who want more space.
Each row comes with a custom-fitted mattress pad, blankets and extra pillows. The seats are also fitted with leg rests that fold up to a 90-degree angle to provide more room to stretch out.
The United Relax Row is expected to launch in 2027, and the airline is planning to offer it on more than 200 Boeing 787 and 777 aircraft by 2030. It did not say if they will be available on flights to and from the UK.
The seats, which are similar to Air New Zealand’s ‘Economy Skycouch’ which launched in 2011, will be located between the economy and Premium Plus seating. United has not said how much extra they will cost.
“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 Executive VP and Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella.
“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.”
Air New Zealand patented its SkyCouch more than 15 years ago and has since sold a licence to other airlines including China Airlines and Brazilian carrier Azul, but United said it is the first North American airline to offer this kind of seating and it holds North American exclusivity on the design.
