United Airlines Introduces Economy Lie-Flat “Relax Row” on 777 and 787
United Airlines revealed a couch-style seating option for its widebody fleet during a media event at Los Angeles International Airport. The carrier announced the convertible row concept for the 787 Dreamliner and many 777 jets.
Event and context
The announcement closed United’s presentation at LAX. Andrew Nocella, Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer, delivered the surprise reveal in a “one more thing” moment. Filmogaz.com had earlier reported on other fleet updates that day, including the A321neo Coastliner, A321XLR, and CRJ450.
What the product offers
The new seating converts three adjacent economy seats into a lie-flat surface. United will provide a mattress pad, blanket, and two pillows for those rows. The feature resembles the Air New Zealand Sky Couch but will remain inside standard economy cabins.
Rollout plan and timeline
United says each aircraft could include up to 12 of these rows. The airline plans to install the product across its 787 fleet and on many 777s. United expects the first Relax Row installations to begin in 2027.
Fleet and targets
The carrier aims to equip more than 200 Boeing 787 and 777 widebodies with the feature by 2030. That scope covers a large portion of United’s long-haul fleet. The initiative is part of a broader effort to diversify cabin options.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Aircraft types | 787 Dreamliner; many 777 models |
| Rows per aircraft | Up to 12 Relax Rows |
| Launch window | Beginning 2027 |
| Target fleet by 2030 | More than 200 widebodies |
| Included amenities | Mattress pad, blanket, two pillows; adjustable leg rests |
Marketing and positioning
Nocella framed the feature as an economy upgrade for long-haul flyers. He said the offering supports United’s premium positioning. United also noted it will be the only North American carrier with a product like this.
Public reaction and confirmation
United posted a social update about the new seating on March 24, 2026. The airline described three adjacent United Economy seats with adjustable leg rests that form a lie-flat space. The post highlighted the mattress pad, blanket, and pillows provided to passengers.
United Airlines will market the option as an Economy Lie-Flat product called Relax Row on 787 and many 777 aircraft. The move targets travelers seeking extra space and comfort on long flights.
