Choosing the right seat makes a huge difference in one’s overall travel experience. If you are planning to book your next flight with United Airlines, then you must have gotten confused between the two seat options provided. When it comes to this airline, two of the major seating options available are United Premium Plus and United Economy Plus, which are designed to give travelers enhanced comfort and provide a more enjoyable journey. But which one should you go for? Here’s a detailed guide to compare these two options to help you select the right one for your next trip.
An Introduction to United Premium Plus
United Premium Plus is a premium cabin class that is designed with luxury for passengers who are looking for comfort and an upgraded flying experience, especially for long-haul international fights. This service is a step higher than Economy and thus offers a more relaxed and spacious environment for passengers searching for more comfort without paying for first or business class.
Features involved in United Premium Plus
Here are curated details on the amenities that are waiting for you if you choose Premium Plus:
Larger & Wider Seats
United Premium Plus provides wider and larger seats than standard Economy seats with more recline. Passengers will have more space to stretch out and relax during their flight.
Reclining seats with Extra legroom
With up to 38 inches of extra legroom compared to simple flight sets, United Premium seats provide more space for a comfortable journey, which is best for long-haul journeys.
Pleasant Dining Experience
Premium Plus offers passengers upgraded meal options, which are usually of higher quality than standard economy fare. Get ready for more flavorful meals and a juicy selection of drinks. Everything from meals and snacks to alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks is available on the menu. However, wines, beer, spirits, and coffee are free for Premium Plus passengers.
Upgraded versions of Entertainment
The seatback screens on the flight are larger and offer more entertainment options, including the latest movies, TV shows, and games. From audio entertainment to your favorite movies, find out about the available entertainment 24 hours before your flight by checking the United app or the flight status online.
Other Priority Services and Amenities
Premium Plus travelers benefit from priority boarding, expedited check-in, and dedicated customer service that makes one’s airport experience smoother and more enjoyable. For a peaceful journey, comfortable pillows and blankets are provided for a cozier experience, especially on those tiring long-haul flights.
Who should choose Premium Plus?
United Premium Plus is a perfect go-to for travelers who want extra comfort, more spacious seating, and a better overall experience with a touch of luxury without spending the price tag of Business or First Class. If one is flying internationally or on a long-hour flight and is looking for comfort, this is a great choice. It’s especially ideal for those people who want a relaxed and enhanced service during their journey.
An Introduction to United Economy Plus
United Economy Plus is a seating upgrade within the standard Economy Class. It provides extra legroom and a seat in front of the economy section with Economy Plus. Although it provides more legroom than a regular economy seat, it doesn’t offer the same level of luxury and amenities as the Premium Plus. However, it can turn out to be a great option for those who want extra space without paying those extra bucks.
Features involved in United Economy Plus
Have a look at these key features and services that you will be getting to enjoy during a flight with Economy Plus:
More Legroom than usual
Economy Plus offers up to 5 extra inches of legroom compared to standard economy seats. If you need a bit more space to stretch out, this is an excellent option, especially on longer flights. It can turn out to be a great deal when one gets that extra comfort without the cost of those luxuries. However, the seats of Economy Plus are the same as those in regular Economy class, with no significant difference in width or recline.
Standard Meals and Entertainment Options
You’ll receive the same meal offerings as other economy passengers, and the in-flight entertainment options are similar to those in regular Economy.
No extra Priority Services
Although Economy Plus has more legroom than Premium Plus, it lacks the extra priority services. Priority boarding and expedited check-in are not available to passengers unless they have a certain elite status or benefit from United.
Available durations
Economy Plus is available on most domestic and international flights, but it’s more commonly found on shorter routes. For that much money, no extra comfort like the premium plus one is necessary during short-haul flights.
Who Should Choose Economy Plus?
Economy plus by United can be ideal for passengers who want a bit more room to stretch and move without opting for a fully upgraded cabin. If you are traveling on a budget but don’t want to spend huge costs for a short-haul flight but still want to avoid the cramped feeling of regular Economy, Economy Plus is a fine choice. For shorter trips or for passengers who do not require the additional benefits provided by Premium Plus, it’s also a suitable choice.
Key Differences Between The United Premium Plus & Economy Plus
While both options offer an upgraded version over standard economy seating, the differences are not much more confusing. Here’s a table for a quick comparison:
Feature | United Premium Plus | United Economy Plus |
Legroom | Larger, Wider, more reclined | Standard seat size, more legroom |
Seat size | Up 38 inches | 34-35 inches (5 inches more than the regular economy) |
Meals | Enhanced meal service | Standard Economy meals |
In-flight entertainment | Larger seatback screens, free wifi, audio entertainment, and more options | Standard entertainment options |
Priority Services | Priority Boarding check-in | None, unless elite status |
Pillows/ Blankets | Provided comfort and coziness | Not provided |
Prices | Higher cost, premium experience | Lower Cost, additional legroom |
Which one should you select?
Choosing between the Premium Plus and Economy Plus comes down to your personal preferences and budget.
- If you are looking for a more comfortable, premium experience on long-haul flights, with better food, extra space, and priority services, United Premium Plus is the way to go.
- If you don’t want to spend extra money and still want extra room to relax and have more comfort compared to standard without the luxury perks, then the United Economy Plus without the additional luxury perks.
Moreover, the decision depends on how much one values comfort and services. Whether it’s a domestic or international flight, both offer an upgraded experience over standard economy. Choose according to your travel needs, and have a safe journey ahead!
In case of doubts
The major difference between the two is that United Premium Plus offers wider seats, more legroom, better meals, and other perks like priority boarding, while Economy only provides extra legroom without the added amenities.
The Premium Plus is significantly more expensive than Economy Plus, often costing between $300 and $500 more per ticket, depending on the route and availability.
United Economy Plus provides standard economy seats with extra legroom and an upgraded version of standard economy cabin.
Economy Plus is a slightly upgraded economy experience, while premium economy works with its own cabins and elevated services on international flights.
United Premium Plus is worth it if you value extra comfort, better meals, and more space on long flights.