United Airlines is introducing a new economy seating option called United Relax Row that transforms an entire row into a shared sofa. The United Relax Row consists of three adjacent economy seats with adjustable leg rests that flip up at a 90-degree angle to create a flat surface. Passengers in United Relax Row will receive a custom-fitted mattress pad, a plush blanket, and two additional pillows. According to Andrew Nocella, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer of United Airlines, the airline is committed to delivering new experiences for customers, with the United Relax Row providing more space and comfort for economy passengers on long-haul flights. The seats are fitted with larger seatbelts and can be used in 'couch mode' at any altitude once the aircraft reaches 10,000 feet, though safety certification details have not been disclosed.
Families with children in United Relax Row will be offered a comforting plush toy and Children's Travel Kit. The United Relax Row will be positioned in a specific section between Economy Plus and standard Economy cabins, with up to 12 rows per aircraft. The exact pricing for these seats remains unknown.
United Airlines is the first North American airline to offer this seating concept. The United Relax Row rollout begins in 2027, with plans to equip over 200 Boeing 787 and 777 widebody aircraft by 2030.
In a parallel development, from 2028, hundreds of new easyJet planes will be fitted with the all-new Kestrel seat designed by Mirus Aircraft Seating. The Kestrel seat offers passengers an additional two inches of knee and shin space compared to most low-cost competitors. It uses carbon fiber instead of standard molded plastic, making it significantly thinner and providing extra space for the passenger behind. The Kestrel seat has a 'fixed recline' of 22 degrees that automatically guides passengers into the most efficient position, removing manual recline ability. It is unclear whether this fixed recline feature will be adjustable for passengers with disabilities or special needs.