What is the difference between United economy and premium economy?

Decoding United’s Economy Options: Economy vs. Economy Plus vs. Premium Plus

Flying United can present a bit of a puzzle when choosing your seat. With several “economy” options, understanding the nuances between them is key to selecting the right experience for your journey and budget. This article breaks down the differences between United Economy (also referred to as standard Economy), Economy Plus, and Premium Plus, focusing specifically on the comfort factors of legroom and recline.

The most basic option, United Economy (standard Economy), serves as the baseline for comparison. While offering standard seating and amenities, it often lacks the extra space some travelers crave, especially on longer flights.

Stepping up from standard Economy is United Economy Plus. This option provides a noticeable improvement in legroom, offering an additional six inches compared to standard Economy. This extra space can make a significant difference in comfort, particularly for taller passengers or those who simply appreciate more room to stretch out. However, the recline remains the same as standard Economy. Think of Economy Plus as a “comfort boost” within the economy cabin.

For a more substantial upgrade, United Premium Plus bridges the gap between Economy and Business class. Here, passengers enjoy a significantly more spacious experience with seven extra inches of legroom compared to standard Economy (one inch more than Economy Plus) and, crucially, three additional inches of recline. This enhanced recline feature allows for a more relaxed and restful flight, especially on long-haul journeys. Premium Plus often includes other perks as well, such as upgraded meals and amenities, further differentiating it from standard Economy and Economy Plus.

In summary:

• United Economy (standard Economy): Baseline seating with standard legroom and recline.
• United Economy Plus: Six extra inches of legroom compared to standard Economy, same recline. A good value for added comfort within the economy cabin.
• United Premium Plus: Seven extra inches of legroom and three extra inches of recline compared to standard Economy. A more premium experience within the Economy class cabin, often with additional perks.

Therefore, if legroom is your primary concern and you’re on a budget, Economy Plus might be the sweet spot. But if you value both legroom and the ability to recline more comfortably, and are willing to pay a premium, then Premium Plus offers a more luxurious in-flight experience. Choosing the right option ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities for your journey.