United Rolls Out Flat Economy Seats Across Widebody Fleet
United Airlines has announced that it will install Relax Row on over 200 widebody jets by 2030. This product, licensed from Air New Zealand, converts three adjacent economy seats into a flat surface via adjustable leg rests and raised armrests. The feature will be available on United's Boeing 787s and 777s starting in 2027.
Each aircraft will carry up to 12 sections of Relax Row, positioned between standard economy and Premium Plus. These sections will come with amenities such as mattress pads and pillows. Bookings can be made by solo travelers, couples, or families.
Air New Zealand launched Skycouch in 2011 and licensed it to three carriers, but no US legacy airline adopted it until United's announcement in 2026. United's fleet-wide rollout is the first such commitment by a major North American carrier.