United To Launch Lie-Flat Economy Seats With New 'Relax Row' In 2027

United's Relax Row transforms economy seats into a lie-flat, couch-style bed, giving travelers more space and comfort on long-haul flights.

Mar. 28, 2026 at 11:19pm by Ben Kaplan

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United Airlines is introducing a new 'Relax Row' on some long-haul flights starting in 2027. The row of three seats can be converted into a lie-flat bed with a mattress topper and pillows, providing more space and comfort for solo travelers, couples, and families with young children. United claims this will be the first North American airline to offer this type of seating option in economy class.

Why it matters

As airlines continue to look for ways to enhance the economy class experience, United's Relax Row represents an innovative approach to providing more comfort and flexibility for travelers on long-haul flights. This could be particularly appealing for families, solo travelers, and those looking for a premium experience without the first-class price tag.

The details

The Relax Row seats will feature individually adjustable leg rests that fold up at a 90-degree angle to create a small bed, extending into the normal legroom space. The setup includes a custom-fitted mattress pad, blankets, and extra pillows for added comfort. United will offer up to 12 Relax Row sections on each plane, located between the standard economy and premium economy sections. The planes with Relax Row will also have other economy upgrades like larger seatback screens, appetizers before meals, Bluetooth connectivity, and more power outlets.

  • United expects the Relax Row to debut on planes beginning in 2027.
  • By 2030, the lie-flat economy seats will be available on more than 200 planes, including Boeing 787 and 777 widebody aircraft.

The players

United Airlines

A major U.S. airline that is introducing the new 'Relax Row' lie-flat economy seats on some long-haul flights starting in 2027.

Andrew Nocella

United's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, who stated the airline is committed to delivering new, industry-leading experiences for all customers.

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What they’re saying

“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. Customers traveling 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.”

— Andrew Nocella, United's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer

What’s next

United has not yet announced pricing or specific details on how customers can book the Relax Row, but more information is expected closer to the 2027 launch date.

The takeaway

United's new Relax Row represents an innovative approach to enhancing the economy class experience, providing travelers with more space and comfort on long-haul flights. This could be a game-changer for families, solo travelers, and those seeking a premium experience without the first-class price tag.