What does Economy Plus get you on United?

Stretch Out and Fly United: Understanding the Benefits of Economy Plus

For frequent flyers and those simply seeking a more comfortable journey, United Airlines offers a compelling upgrade option: Economy Plus. Nestled at the front of the Economy cabin, Economy Plus seats provide a distinct advantage: noticeably increased legroom. This seemingly small change can make a world of difference, transforming a cramped experience into a more relaxed and enjoyable flight.

So, what exactly does upgrading to Economy Plus get you on United? The key selling point is, undoubtedly, more legroom. This is the primary and most tangible benefit. In general, you can expect several inches of extra legroom compared to standard Economy seating. This extra space allows you to stretch out, reducing pressure on your knees and ankles, particularly valuable on long-haul flights. Imagine the difference between trying to work on a laptop with your knees jammed against the seat in front and having ample space to comfortably type.

Beyond the physical comfort, Economy Plus offers a few other subtle perks that can enhance your overall experience:

• Prime Location: Being positioned at the front of the Economy cabin often means you are among the first to deplane, potentially saving you valuable time at your destination, especially when connecting to another flight or needing to catch a bus or train.
• Early Boarding (potentially): Depending on your MileagePlus status, you might benefit from earlier boarding, allowing you to settle in and secure overhead bin space before the general Economy passengers board. Although not guaranteed, the proximity to the front of the aircraft makes this more likely.
• Greater Flexibility in Upgrading: The ability to upgrade to Economy Plus extends from the initial booking stage right through to check-in. This provides considerable flexibility to secure your preferred seating on United and most United Express flights. This means you can monitor seat availability and upgrade closer to your travel date if you decide you need the extra comfort.

How to Upgrade to Economy Plus:

United makes upgrading to Economy Plus relatively straightforward. You have several options:

• During Booking: When purchasing your ticket on United.com or through the United app, look for the option to select Economy Plus seats.
• After Booking (Manage My Booking): If you’ve already booked your ticket, you can log into your MileagePlus account and manage your booking. Look for the option to change your seat and upgrade to Economy Plus.
• At Check-in: Check-in is another opportunity to upgrade to Economy Plus if availability permits.
• At the Airport: Inquire at the check-in counter or the gate about upgrading to Economy Plus.

Is Economy Plus Worth It?

The value proposition of Economy Plus is subjective and depends on your individual circumstances and priorities. Consider these factors:

• Flight Length: The longer the flight, the more valuable the extra legroom becomes.
• Personal Comfort: If you’re tall or simply value comfort during travel, Economy Plus is likely a worthwhile investment.
• Budget: Assess whether the cost of the upgrade fits within your travel budget.
• MileagePlus Status: Members with elite status may receive complimentary or discounted upgrades to Economy Plus, making it an even more attractive option.

In conclusion, Economy Plus on United offers a significant upgrade in comfort, primarily through increased legroom. While the value is subjective, it’s a worthwhile consideration for anyone looking to enhance their flying experience, especially on longer journeys. With flexible upgrade options available throughout the booking process, it’s easy to assess availability and make an informed decision about whether Economy Plus is right for you. So, next time you fly United, consider stretching out and enjoying the journey a little more with Economy Plus.