United’s new economy 'couch' seats spark hype, skepticism online

United Airlines has travelers abuzz with its recently announced plans to make long-haul flying more comfortable.

The U.S. carrier announced a new seat offering called the Relax Row on March 24, a special set of three economy seats "that can transform into a couch," according to a news release. The seats will have adjustable leg rests that can fold at a 90-degree angle, giving passengers room to sleep or stretch out.

Expected to launch in 2027, the Relax Rows will be installed in 200 aircraft by 2030, according to United, which said up to 12 of the special rows will be added to spots between Economy and Premium Plus seating per plane.

The seating accommodations are meant to be especially helpful for families on an economy-class budget who need more space, said United, adding that tickets for these sections will include plush blankets, a toy and a children's travel kit. Some important details that United failed to disclose, including the price, have social media users speculating how this new seating perk will work.

Many questions remain for air travelers

While air travelers have been bemoaning shrinking seats and increasingly crowded accommodations for years, some remain skeptical of United's solution, according to social media posts.

One major point repeated by multiple commentators in several posts about the new accommodations? They're old news.

"It’s Air New Zealand 15 years ago!" said one commenter, referencing the New Zealand carrier under a TikTok post by user @zachgriff. "You mean a sky couch. This is not new," said another. Others also pointed to Japanese airline All Nippon Airways, which also has a "COUCHii" option.

"US airlines still 10 years behind everyone else," agreed one user under another TikTok post by NerdWallet travel writer @beninflight

Others seemed hesitant to believe the seats are as comfortable or spacious as advertised. Multiple users on TikTok and Instagram commented on posts about United's new couch seating, voicing concerns over thin seat cushions, cramped spaces behind reclined seats and the number of people who could realistically fit.

And, of course, many users questioned the value of this economy option as compared to first class or other upgrades.

"Makes zero sense. You’re going to pay 2.5X a normal ticket to take a nap," said one user, echoed by another who quipped, "3 seats for the price of 5. can't wait."

"I feel like it could be a really good deal or outrageously expensive," @beninflight told one commentator who wondered about pricing, which United has yet to release.

In-flight couch row 'worth it,' say some netizens

While some travelers may be harder to please, not everyone is suspicious of the option. In fact, plenty express excitement, especially frequent long-haul fliers and those considering traveling with kids.

"Delta Platinum member here, this move by United will have me doing my homework today and possibly switching to United," said a commenter on United's TikTok post announcing the Relax Row.

"For mom and baby, this would be amazing," one comment read, with several more agreeing they wished the couch-style accommodation had been an option when they flew with small children. Another comment on the stress of flying with small children in small seats reads, "I just traveled with my little (child) and keeping him in our laps the whole flight was awful."

"Haven’t seen an upgrade this major since y'all removed the ashtrays from the armrests," a commenter wrote, one of many positive comments on United's Instagram post

The most common question was pricing, with some speculating United would saddle Relax Row riders with additional fees and upgrade costs. However, others expressed hope that it would serve as an affordable economy-class option. Some said that either way, it would probably be worth it for them.

"Depends on length/time of flight, but I’d 100% do this," said one Instagram commenter. "This would be a much better solution than paying for business class (which also isn’t an option)."