Discover Added Comfort with Economy Plus Seats on United Airlines

Booking economy plus seats on United Airlines is straightforward and can be done during the ticket purchasing process or later via the United website or mobile app. MileagePlus members with elite status often enjoy complimentary access or discounted upgrades to these seats. For others, the cost of an upgrade varies depending on the route and time of booking. Many corporate travelers and savvy flyers consider Economy Plus a cost-effective middle ground offering comfort and convenience without the hefty price tag of business class. Passengers can also use miles to upgrade, making it a flexible option for frequent flyers.

What is Economy Plus on United Airlines?

Economy Plus is a seating upgrade option available on most United Airlines and United Express flights. It provides:

• Extra legroom (up to 6 inches more) compared to standard Economy seats

• Priority seating locations – usually in the front of the Economy cabin

• Access to earlier deplaning due to closer proximity to the aircraft door

• Availability on most flights, including domestic and international routes

Economy Plus seating is offered during booking, at check-in, or even at the gate (based on availability).

Seat Specifications and Comfort Features

Economy Plus is ideal for passengers who need more space to stretch or work during the flight. Key differences from standard Economy include:

Feature	Economy	Economy Plus
Seat Pitch	~30-31 inches	34-36 inches
Seat Width	17-18 inches	17-18 inches (same)
Recline	Standard	Standard (may vary by aircraft)
Location	Middle to rear of cabin	Front of Economy section
Power Outlets	Select aircraft	Select aircraft
Wi-Fi & Entertainment	Available	Available

The extra legroom makes Economy Plus especially attractive for tall travelers, business passengers, and those on long-haul flights.

Where is Economy Plus Located on the Plane?

Economy Plus seats are typically found:

• Immediately behind Premium Plus or Business Class (on larger aircraft)

• In the first several rows of the Economy cabin

• Often including exit row seats, offering even more space

This forward location makes boarding, service, and deplaning quicker — a subtle but valuable perk, especially for those with tight connections.

How Much Does Economy Plus Cost?

The cost of upgrading to Economy Plus varies based on:

• Route and flight length

• Time of booking (cheaper if added during original booking)

• Seat availability

• Fare class

Typical Upgrade Price Range:

• Domestic short-haul: $20 – $59

• Domestic long-haul: $49 – $119

• International flights: $99 – $299+

Frequent flyers and MileagePlus members often get discounted rates, and in some cases, complimentary access (details below).

Benefits of United Economy Plus

Extra Legroom

With up to 6 inches more legroom, passengers enjoy a more relaxed posture, better working space, and reduced fatigue on longer journeys.

Front-Cabin Location

Economy Plus seats are situated near the front of the Economy cabin, allowing:

• Quicker boarding and exit

• Faster meal service

• Easier access to overhead bins

Seamless Experience

These seats offer standard Economy amenities, ensuring no sacrifice in inflight entertainment, meals (on eligible flights), or service.

Ideal for Business Travelers

Combining affordability with comfort, Economy Plus is perfect for business travelers who want more room without upgrading to a premium cabin.

🎯 Who Gets Free or Discounted Economy Plus Seats?

United MileagePlus Elite Members

Tier	Economy Plus Access
Premier Silver	Free at check-in
Premier Gold	Free at booking for self + 1 companion
Premier Platinum & 1K	Free at booking for self + 8 companions

Credit Card Holders

Some United credit cardholders may receive complimentary upgrades, discounted rates, or miles redemption options for Economy Plus seats.

How to Purchase Economy Plus

You can upgrade to Economy Plus at various stages of your booking:

1. During Initial Booking:

   • Add directly through www.united.com

   • Cheaper than upgrading later

2. After Booking (Manage Trip):

   • Use the "My Trips" section to select and pay for seat upgrades

3. During Check-in:

   • Available online or at airport kiosks

4. At the Gate:

   • Last-minute availability may allow for discounted upgrades

Can I Use Miles for Economy Plus?

Yes! MileagePlus miles can be used to purchase Economy Plus seats in some cases. You can select "Pay with miles" during checkout or while managing your trip. The exact redemption rate varies based on flight and availability.

Does Economy Plus Include Extra Baggage or Meals?

No, Economy Plus does not include extra baggage allowance or upgraded meals. It is purely a seat upgrade. Passengers still adhere to the baggage rules of their original fare class, which may include:

• Basic Economy: No full-size carry-on, fee for checked bags

• Standard Economy: 1 carry-on + personal item included, checked bag fees apply

However, Economy Plus passengers may still benefit from:

• Priority boarding (Group 3 or earlier) on select fare types

• Better service experience due to front-cabin proximity

Popular United Routes Offering Economy Plus

You’ll find Economy Plus seating on nearly all United aircraft, including:

• Domestic Flights: New York (EWR) ↔ Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD) ↔ Miami (MIA)

• International Flights: San Francisco (SFO) ↔ Tokyo (NRT), Newark (EWR) ↔ London (LHR), Washington (IAD) ↔ Frankfurt (FRA)

Even regional jets operated by United Express often offer Economy Plus rows.

Is Economy Plus Worth It?

Yes, if you value space and convenience. For travelers who want:

• More comfort on long-haul flights

• Faster exit upon arrival

• Extra legroom for working or relaxing

• No need for full premium cabin perks

Then Economy Plus offers a perfect middle ground. The modest upgrade cost can significantly improve travel quality, especially on 4+ hour flights.

Conclusion

United Airlines Economy Plus is the smart traveler’s solution for extra space and comfort without the premium price tag. Whether you're a frequent flyer or occasional adventurer, this seating class adds value, especially on longer routes or when work productivity and comfort matter. With accessible pricing, loyalty benefits, and better seating options, Economy Plus ensures a more pleasant journey every time you fly United.