US airlines are inventing new paid services, from an empty seat next to you to a sofa in economy class.

American airlines continue to seek additional revenue streams by introducing new paid services. They carefully "sort" seats in cabins from the front to the back row, turning familiar amenities (seat selection, lounge access) into separate paid services. This allows them to significantly increase the average ticket price per passenger without dramatically increasing base fares. The innovations are discussed. CNBC and PR Newswire.

United Airlines was one of the first airlines to radically expand its comfort options. The company recently announced that its new Airbus A321XLR long-haul narrowbody jets will feature special rows with an empty middle seat. Passengers in window and aisle seats will be able to pay an additional fee to guarantee an empty middle seat. This will significantly increase personal space on long flights. Sales will begin later this year, and it is not yet clear how much more expensive tickets for these seats will be.

This practice has long been used by European airlines, where such rows are positioned as a simplified version of business class on short and medium-haul routes.

On the subject: Five websites where you can find the cheapest flights

An even more exciting innovation from United is the United Relax Row. This is a special row of three seats in regular Economy Class on wide-body Boeing 787 and Boeing 777 aircraft. After takeoff, the seats, using adjustable footrests, transform into a large, comfortable sofa-like berth. Passengers choosing this row will receive an expanded suite of amenities, including a custom-fitted mattress, large blankets, and extra pillows.

Families with children will also receive soft toys and a special children's travel kit.

United says the new product is ideal for families with young children, couples, and solo travelers who want more comfort without paying the premium of full business class.

"As an airline with a strong premium component, we're committed to offering new travel formats for all passengers—and Relax Row is just that. Economy class passengers on long-haul flights want an option with more space and comfort, and we can give them that," said Andrew Nosella, United's executive vice president and chief commercial officer. "We're the only airline in North America offering this kind of amenity, and it's one of the reasons we continue to retain customer loyalty."

Relax Row will be available on board in 2027 and by 2030 will be installed on more than 200 long-haul aircraft (up to 12 such sections on one aircraft).

Relax Row is just one part of United's broader strategy to make travel easier for families.

The airline was the first to implement a dynamic seating plan, allowing children under 12 to be seated next to an accompanying adult free of charge during the booking process. If necessary, the system automatically moves the family to more comfortable seats so they can sit together.

On select flights with included meals, children are offered separate menus for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. Parents can pre-select items, such as French toast, chicken nuggets, or grilled cheese sandwiches, through the United app or on the company's website.

The in-flight entertainment system has a dedicated section for families with a selection of films and cartoons, including Bluey, Paw Patrol, Zootopia 2, Paddington in Peru, and more.

In addition, we've partnered with Sesame Street to create a children's travel kit with interactive activities: it includes a book with activities, a puzzle, and a sensory strip for calming down—all designed to make the flight more comfortable for children and less stressful for parents.

Delta Air Lines, meanwhile, has focused on the premium segment. The airline launched new Basic Business fares for its flagship business class, Delta One (and a similar basic option for First Class on short-haul routes).

Passengers can now purchase a seat in the front of the cabin at a lower price, but with significant limitations: no access to the airport business lounge, no ability to select a specific seat in advance (seats are assigned only at check-in), reduced bonus mileage accrual, and limited options for ticket exchange or refund.

Delta is following the lead of its competitor, United, which previously introduced similar "basic" versions of its Polaris business class.

You may be interested in: top New York news, stories of our immigrants and helpful tips about life in the Big Apple - read it all on ForumDaily New York

It's clear that more such innovations will emerge in the coming years—from transformable furniture in economy class to increasingly differentiated fare plans in business class. This means more choice for travelers. But it will be important to carefully read the terms and conditions to avoid overpaying for features previously included in the default fare.

Read also on ForumDaily:

United Sold Wall Seats at Window Prices: Now They're Charging Millions for the Fraud

Delta plane hit by fireworks while landing in Chicago

How to Travel with Multiple Passports

Do you want more important and interesting news about life in the USA and immigration to America? — support us donate! Also subscribe to our page Facebook. Select the “Priority in display” option and read us first. Also, don't forget to subscribe to our РєР ° РЅР ° Р »РІ Telegram  and Instagram- there is a lot of interesting things there. And join thousands of readers ForumDaily New York — there you will find a lot of interesting and positive information about life in the metropolis.