United Airlines is introducing economy seats that convert to beds on international flights

Long-haul flights in economy on United are set to get a little more comfortable next year. Starting in 2027, the airline plans to introduce Relax Rows, a couch-style setup that turns a standard trio of seats into a space where you can actually stretch out and sleep.

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Here's how it works: after takeoff, in select rows with three adjacent seats, the armrests fold away and leg rests lift to a right angle, converting the space into something like a a padded bench. Passengers in this row will be provided with a fitted mattress pad, a blanket and a couple of extra pillows to serve as a makeshift bed.

“Customers traveling in United Economy on long-haul flights deserve an option for more space and comfort, and this is one way we can deliver that for them,” said Andrew Nocella, United’s executive vice president and chief commercial officer, in an official statement. "We’re committed to delivering new, industry-leading experiences for all of our customers and the United Relax Row is the perfect example of that."

The catch is that you have to book the entire row. But for families or couples, the price is easier to justify, especially on flights where sleep is the difference between arriving well-rested at your destination. Families booking a Relax Row will also get a children’s travel kit and a plush toy.

United says the rollout will begin with its widebody fleet, including the Boeing 787 and Boeing 777, with plans to expand to more than 200 aircraft by 2030. Each plane will carry up to 12 Relax Row sections, positioned between standard economy and Premium Plus.

The idea isn’t entirely new. Airlines like Air New Zealand and Lufthansa have already tested similar concepts, giving economy passengers a way to lie flat without upgrading to business class. But United is the first North American carrier to offer the option.

Pricing hasn’t been announced yet, which may ultimately decide how popular the Relax Row becomes. Still, it's a step in the right direction for economy class, so an international flight doesn't have to mean sitting upright for ten hours.