The silent war over the plane armrest may finally be nearing a ceasefire.
After years of passive-aggressive elbow nudges, strategic leaning and the occasional unspoken stand-off at 35,000 feet, United Airlines is reportedly exploring a new economy seating layout that could give passengers something aviation has long denied them: a little extra space.
The airline’s new Airbus A321XLR aircraft may feature “Eurobusiness-style” rows, where the middle seat is blocked off — potentially by a tray table — creating a roomier experience for travellers in economy.
Sign up to The Nightly’s newsletters.
Get the first look at the digital newspaper, curated daily stories and breaking headlines delivered to your inbox.
By continuing you agree to our Terms and Privacy Policy.
“We’re always evaluating and testing new ways to further differentiate ourselves within the industry and add even more value to the experience of flying United,” the airline said in a statement.
The proposed layout could deliver a double benefit for the carrier.
Alongside offering passengers more personal space, the configuration would reportedly cap the aircraft at 150 seats.
That number is significant because Federal Aviation Administration regulations require at least four flight attendants for aircraft with up to 150 seats, while exceeding that threshold would likely require a fifth crew member.
According to Business Insider, the setup would mirror the “Eurobusiness” layout commonly seen on narrow-body aircraft across Europe. United’s new A321XLR fleet is expected to be used on transatlantic routes.
The airline is already experimenting with ways to make economy feel a little less, well, economy.
Earlier this year, United unveiled plans for its new United Relax Row, a seating concept designed to transform an entire row into a couch-like space on long-haul flights. The airline said the setup would be particularly appealing for families with young children, couples and solo travellers looking for extra comfort.
United says it is the first North American airline to offer the concept and holds exclusive rights to the design across the continent. The dedicated rows of three seats feature adjustable leg rests that fold up to a 90-degree angle, allowing passengers to stretch out, sleep or lounge more comfortably during long journeys.
“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,” United executive vice president and chief commercial officer Andrew Nocella said in a press release.
“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.”
Passengers who book a United Relax Row will also receive a range of additional perks, including a custom-fitted mattress pad, a specially sized blanket, two extra pillows, a plush toy and a children’s travel kit for families.
