United Airlines announced on 14 July 2026 a new Economy Plus configuration for its 50 Airbus A321XLR aircraft, featuring a row where the middle seat is permanently neutralized and replaced by a shared table stretching from armrest to armrest[4][6]. This fixed table module, upholstered in leather-like material with two cup holders, renders the center seat unusable for reservation, allowing only window or aisle bookings while granting those passengers extra elbow room beyond the existing three inches of additional legroom in XLR Economy Plus[4][6]. The carrier expects to be the sole U.S. operator offering this blocked-middle design, with seats available for sale later in 2026 and international service beginning by early 2027[4]. United is evaluating expansion of the concept to other aircraft types, setting a new benchmark for mid-cabin comfort in the sector[4][6].