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In addition to the new “Coastliner” Airbus A321neo aircraft that United will bring on soon for transcontinental flights, the carrier is also elevating the regional jet experience. United will begin flying the Embraer CRJ450 with just 41 seats (including seven in First Class). Premium passengers will see a big change in how their luggage is stored as overhead bins will not be present on the plane and luggage will instead be stored in lockers up front.
The aircraft will be operated by SkyWest and will fly shorter routes from United’s Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Denver International Airport (DEN) hubs. With only 41 seats, the aircraft will feel special. Amenities like overhead bins in Economy and Starlink Wi-Fi for all MileagePlus members will further elevate the experience.
Investments like this reflect a broader push under CEO Scott Kirby to reposition the airline as a leading premium carrier in the United States and edge out Delta Air Lines from holding that title (Delta does in its own mind, mostly). The strategy caters to higher-paying travelers with upgraded amenities and experiences while steering United toward the more lucrative segment of the market that Delta has successfully capitalized on.
The current financial gap between the carriers underscores that opportunity. In 2025, Delta posted a 9.2% operating margin (compared to United’s 8%), which highlights the profitability potential of a more premium-focused approach (or one that feels that way).
Anthony’s Take: This is another aircraft that I am excited to fly and cannot wait to check it out. It looks sleek and I love having more head room.
(Image Credits: United Airlines.)
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Advertiser & Editorial Disclosure: The Bulkhead Seat earns an affiliate commission for anyone approved through the links above This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. We work to provide the best publicly available offers to our readers. We frequently update them, but this site does not include all available offers. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities.
