- United Airlines has announced a new seating design where the middle seat on its Airbus A321XLR aircraft will be converted into a shared table to provide more comfort and elbow room for passengers.
- This new seating option aims to give passengers extra space to stretch out on longer international flights, according to United's announcement.
- The new seating design will be available in one row on the Airbus A321XLR, with pricing and sales expected to be disclosed later this year.
- United Airlines plans to begin flying its new fleet of 50 Airbus A321XLR aircraft domestically this fall and internationally by early 2027.
United Airlines is set to become the first U.S. airline to offer a unique seating arrangement on its new Airbus A321XLR aircraft, where the middle seat in a row of Economy Plus will be converted into a shared table. This innovative design aims to provide extra space for passengers seated in the aisle and window seats, enhancing comfort on longer flights.123
The airline announced this development on July 14, stating that the new seating will be available in a single row, with details on pricing and sales expected later this year. Andrew Nocella, United's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, emphasized the airline's commitment to improving passenger experience, saying, “We’re investing nose-to-tail across our fleet and giving customers choice and value in every cabin.”
The Airbus A321XLR fleet, consisting of 50 aircraft, is scheduled to begin domestic flights this fall and will expand to international routes by early 2027. Over half of the fleet is projected to be operational by 2028. The Economy Plus seats in this aircraft already offer an additional three inches of legroom compared to standard Economy class seats.
This new offering follows United's recent introduction of the “United Relax Rows,” which will allow economy passengers to convert a row of three seats into a couch for lounging or sleeping. United's move mirrors similar offerings by European airlines like Lufthansa and Finnair, which have provided empty middle seats to business class passengers.
“Walt Disney World Resort is replacing faded beige walkways at Disney's Animal Kingdom Theme Park's main entrance with fresh dark brown pavement, setting up green barricades near the Rainforest Cafe, though no public comment has been made. Guests can still use both main and alternate entrances but may need to walk around affected areas, and it's unclear if the project will proceed in stages.”
AP News
