"I Don't Want a 'Close Trip' With a Stranger Next to Me"...Airplanes Introduce Empty Middle Seats

United Airlines Unveils 'Economy Plus'

More Space Provided by Removing the Middle Seat in Standard Three-Seat Rows

Seating configurations on major U.S. airline passenger jets are evolving. United Airlines has attracted attention by introducing "Economy Plus," a class that offers more space between seats compared to the standard economy cabin.

On July 18 (local time), U.S. media outlets including The New York Times reported that United Airlines is experimenting with Economy Plus seating on its newly introduced Airbus A321XLR aircraft. Economy Plus is an option within the existing economy class in which the middle seat is left empty. It will gradually be implemented on domestic U.S. flights starting this fall, and on international routes beginning early next year. While pricing has not been disclosed yet, it is expected to cost more than standard economy.

United Airlines' Economy Plus eliminates the middle seat in its traditional economy 3-seat rows. United Airlines

In Economy Plus, the typically three-seat row eliminates the middle seat, leaving only the window and aisle seats available. The vacated space is filled with a fixed large table finished in a leather-like material. The table is shared by the two adjacent passengers, and features cup holders as well.

This allows passengers to enjoy a more spacious personal area without bumping into their seatmates. United Airlines emphasized, "It provides a more comfortable flying experience on long-haul journeys." It is reportedly the first time a U.S. airline has implemented this style of seating arrangement.

However, The New York Times pointed out that this approach is similar to the way some European airlines operate their "Euro Business Class." Carriers such as Lufthansa, British Airways, and Air France have long left the middle seat empty on European routes to offer business class passengers more space.

Some aviation industry experts noted that this move is not only aimed at improving convenience but also serves a strategic purpose for airlines looking to cut costs. Henry Harteveldt, an analyst at travel industry firm Atmosphere Research, explained, "It is more beneficial for United Airlines than for its customers, as leaving the middle seat empty allows for one less crew member to operate the flight if necessary."

Relax Row with 3 seats that can be used like a bed. United Airlines

United Airlines has recently introduced a series of service enhancements for passenger convenience. In March this year, the carrier launched its "Relax Row" system, which allows an entire row of standard seats to be used as a flat bed. This product, which makes all three seats available as a single space, is sometimes referred to as "Lie-Flat Economy" or "Nupconomy." It is planned mainly for use on long-haul international routes.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.