United Airlines is planning to increase the size of its premium economy cabins in future aircraft deliveries, according to Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella. The airline has announced plans to expand its Premium Plus cabin, which is currently found on some of its wide-body jets.
The new expansion will result in larger premium seats and potentially longer flights for passengers who opt for premium economy. United’s current 787-9 aircraft have a mix of Polaris business class suites and Premium Plus seats, with the latter being less spacious than the former but still offering more comfort than standard economy.
However, some airlines, such as Delta Air Lines, have successfully marketed their own versions of premium economy, taking up less space than business class but generating significant revenue. United may follow suit by increasing its Premium Plus cabin size to capitalize on this trend.
The airline has already introduced a new interior design called “United Elevated,” which will feature 99 premium seats on the upcoming 787-9 aircraft. The expanded Polaris business class cabin and Premium Plus seats will provide more space for passengers who choose to upgrade.
While some critics argue that premium economy is not as comfortable as traditional business class, it can still offer a more affordable alternative for those seeking extra legroom and comfort. As the well-heeled age population continues to grow, airlines may find increased demand for premium economy seats as passengers look for ways to justify their spending on business class upgrades.
The airline’s plans to expand its Premium Plus cabin come at a time when the industry is shifting towards more efficient use of space on aircraft. By increasing the size of its premium economy cabins, United aims to attract more passengers who are willing to pay extra for comfort and convenience.
While the specific details of the expansion remain unclear, one thing is certain: United Airlines is committed to offering its passengers a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. With the introduction of new interior designs and expanded Premium Plus cabins, the airline is poised to continue its growth and development in the premium economy market.
Source: https://liveandletsfly.com/united-airlines-expand-premium-economy