United Launches New CRJ-550 Regional Jet
by Daine Taylor
United plans to fly 15 routes from Chicago O’Hare Airport, with additional services proposed from New York/Newark and Washington Dulles in 2020. Photo: United Airlines.
United Airlines is introducing a batch of new regional jets to its fleet, which will feature fewer seats, more space for luggage, and even a walk-up bar for first-class passengers.
The carrier’s new Bombardier CRJ-550s are being touted as the “world’s first and only 50-seat regional aircraft that offers first-class seats and amenities.”
The reconfigured CRJ-550 consists of 20 Economy seats with a 30” pitch, 20 Economy Plus seats with a 34”-36” pitch, and 10 First Class seats with an impressive 42” pitch. The aircraft offers more Economy Plus seating and more overall legroom per seat than any other 50-seat aircraft flown by a U.S. airline.
The aircraft also features ample luggage space, with enough room in the overhead compartments for as many as 50 bags, as well as floor-level containers providing additional luggage space. The plane features a walk-up snack station for first-class passengers, with drinks being served in Polaris glassware for the complete premium experience.
The planes will also include WiFi service and streaming entertainment for passengers’ enjoyment, with additional features like power outlets at each seat to be added later.
The CRJ-550 inaugural flight debuted this past Sunday. Currently, United plans to fly 15 routes from Chicago O’Hare Airport, with additional services proposed from New York/Newark and Washington Dulles in 2020.
Tickets are now available for purchase.
