United Airlines to offer empty middle seats for a fee

United Airlines is set to offer one of air travel's most coveted luxuries: an empty middle seat, for a price. The new "Economy Plus" option will be available on the carrier's upcoming Airbus A321XLR aircraft, with the airline announcing the feature on Tuesday.

This new seating choice will go on sale later this year, with flights featuring the option expected to depart shortly thereafter. United states it is the sole U.S. airline providing this particular seating arrangement. Further details regarding pricing and availability will be released closer to the launch date. The airline's fleet of 50 Airbus A321XLR planes will each include a dedicated row with unoccupied middle seats, which the airline states will be "repurposed as shared spaces with large custom tables."

While passengers in these seats will gain additional personal space, they will share a fixed table that spans across the empty middle seat. United's new Airbus A321XLR aircraft are scheduled to begin flying domestic routes this fall, with international service planned to commence in early 2027. This move comes as the airline continues to invest in its fleet and enhance passenger experience.

Andrew Nocella, United's executive vice president and chief commercial officer, stated, "We're investing nose-to-tail across our fleet and giving customers choice and value in every cabin." This initiative follows United's recent introduction of "United Relax Row" seats, which recline into a lie-flat surface and will be available for purchase in early 2027, further emphasizing the airline's focus on offering passengers greater comfort and options.

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We're investing nose-to-tail across our fleet and giving customers choice and value in every cabin.