New cabin: United rely on more premiums on domestic roads

Not until Tuesday (29 June) United Airlines announces huge new aircraft order طلب. Another 200 Boeing 737 Max and 70 Airbus A321 Neo will join the fleet and replace older aircraft, especially regional aircraft. The new machines will be delivered with a new cabin. An important difference: Large, short-haul aircraft like the 737 Max 10 fit more seats in higher classes, while regional jets like the Bombardier CRJ are often in a purely economy configuration.

The airline said in a presentation that the number of business travelers is currently at least 60 percent of the level it was before the pandemic. But assume a steady recovery, with 100% expected to happen again in 2023. So it makes sense for the airline to rely on special offers for business travelers. Economy class accounts for just 30 percent of sales on United domestic flights. With the new strategy, that percentage should drop to just 27 percent by 2026.

Different route from other airlines

Thus, United is taking a different path than many other airlines. Even the German alliance partner Lufthansa assumes that business travel will recover much more slowly than holiday travel – which is further divided into economy or premium economy. For this reason, the Lufthansa group is also increasingly dependent on holiday destinations.

In addition to a higher proportion of premium seats, United’s planes get refreshments in the cabin. The first aircraft with new equipment, the 737 Max 8, was unveiled in Newark on Tuesday, June 29. New Boeing 737 MAX aircraft will be delivered at the factory and Airbus A321neo in this manner as standard in the future. But also all less modern aircraft already in service will receive an upgrade from United by 2025.

Modern cabin

The cheapest seat class is also not deprived. All seats have their own screen with in-flight entertainment and plugs. In the future, fast “next generation” internet should be available on all flights. The entire cabin has modern LED lighting.