United to be first US carrier with economy seats that turn into couches

United Airlines announced a new “Relax Row” that lets economy passengers stretch out on long-haul flights starting in 2027.

Being able to lie down flat and stretch your legs on a long-haul flight will no longer be a luxury exclusive to business and first-class passengers on United Airlines.

The U.S. carrier announced on March 24 a new seat offering called the Relax Row, meant to make falling asleep and getting comfy while in economy a bit easier.

Slated to debut next year, the Relax Row is a special set of three economy seats "that can transform into a couch," according to a March 24 news release. The seats will have adjustable leg rests that can fold up to a 90-degree angle to give passengers more room to sleep or stretch out.

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"As a leading premium airline, 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. 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 United's Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella in the release.