United to Offer Paid Middle-Seat Block on New A321XLR Flights
United Airlines will sell a new Economy Plus option that blocks the middle seat and adds a shared table on its upcoming A321XLR aircraft, a move it says will provide extra space and could reduce operating costs.
United Airlines announced that it will begin selling a new Economy Plus option on its Airbus A321XLR narrow-body jets later this year. The product blocks the middle seat in a three-seat row and installs a fixed, leather-like table that can be used by the aisle and window passengers.
The airline has not disclosed pricing but said the seats will debut on domestic routes this fall, with international service slated for early next year. "We’re investing nose-to-tail across our fleet and giving customers choice and value in every cabin," said Andrew Nocella, United’s chief commercial officer.
Industry analysts note that the configuration could also lower United’s costs. Henry Harteveldt of Atmosphere Research said blocking middle seats may allow the carrier to staff each A321XLR with one fewer flight attendant. He added that the concept mirrors a seating style known as Eurobusiness class, used by some European carriers on single-aisle aircraft.
United previously introduced a "Relax Row" product that converts a three-seat economy row into a lie-flat space, which will be offered on selected long-haul international flights beginning in 2027.