This was my first time flying United Airlines’ premium economy product aka “United Premium Plus” on a long-haul flight and I can honestly say that I was very impressed. The seat, service, and amenities provided were all top-notch and I think the overall product provides a great balance between business-class comfort and economy-class prices. In this trip report, I will review my United Premium Plus flight from Rome Fiumicino to Chicago O’Hare on their Boeing 787-10 aircraft.
United Premium Plus Ground Services
At Rome Leonardo da Vinci-Fiumicino International Airpot (FCO), United operates from Terminal 3. Their check-in counters are located in area 406, at the very far end of the terminal. When you arrive at the terminal, make a left and walk all the way down to the end of the terminal. All flights bound for the United States will be located in this area.
On the ground, United provides their premium economy passengers with expedited check-in, baggage handling and boarding. Premium Plus passengers are invited to use the Premier Access lane for expedited check-in and Group 2 for priority boarding. At the time of my arrival, there was no one in line and check-in was a breeze.
VAT Refund at Rome Fiumicino Airport
If you went on a shopping spree and need to collect your VAT refund, you can now do so before or after security at Rome Fiumicino Airport. If you need to collect your refund for items to be checked in, you can get your refund from the respective companies in area 210 before dropping off your bags. Just make sure to get your boarding pass first.
But if you can carry your items in your carry-on baggage, you can get your refund after security. My recommendation is that you do so after security because the lines for the VAT refund companies (Planet, Global Blue, etc.) are very crowded prior to security. Also, if you used Planet or Global Blue, you no longer need to go to customs first to get a stamp. You can go straight to the company to process your refund. Also, if you want cash, then you will have to wait in line for an agent. If you are okay with a refund back to your credit card, you can use the kiosk.
United Premium Plus Lounge Access at Rome
Unfortunately, United does not provide their premium economy passengers with lounge access. However, if you have a Priority Pass membership, you can use the Plaza Premium Lounge or the Prime Class Lounge, both located in Terminal 3 in the E Gates area. On this trip, I used the Plaza Premium Lounge for a quick bite to eat. I didn’t have time to explore the Prime Class Lounge but from what I read, I think the Plaza Premium Lounge is the better of the two lounges.
United Airlines Boeing 787 Premium Plus
I left the lounge around 8:30 AM and made my way to gate E39 for my flight. Keep in mind that if your departure gate is E31 to E44, you will have to take an airport train to your gate. It’s not a very long ride but make sure to add a few extra minutes to get to your gate.
I got there a little early so I just took a seat and waited for boarding to be called. Boarding started with pre-boarders and then Group 1.
Flight: UA 971
Aircraft: Boeing 787-10
Rome (FCO) to Chicago (ORD)
Depart: 9:45 AM (9:44 AM actual) on Thursday
Arrive: 1:00 PM (1:12 PM actual) same day
Duration: 10hrs 28mns
Seat: 22F Premium Economy Class
This flight was operated with a one-year-old Boeing 787-10, registration N14019. This aircraft is equipped with three rows of premium economy class seating arranged in a 2-3-2 layout. According to aeroLOPA, these seats offer 18.7 inches in width and provide 38 inches of pitch. Each seat is equipped with a personal in-flight entertainment system, USB port, universal electrical outlet, and an overhead reading lamp. Additionally, each seat also features an adjustable headrest, leg rest, footrest, and a personal air vent.
On this flight, I self-selected seat 22F, an aisle seat located in the last row of the center column of seats. I like these seats in the last row because there is no one behind to kick or pull on your seat and you still get a full recline. I also don’t have to feel bad for having my seat reclined into someone’s face when they’re trying to work or whatever.
The USB port, electrical outlet, TV remote, and seat controls are all located on the inside armrest.
Storage-wise, you can store your belongings in the seatback pocket in front of you or in the small bin on the inside of your seat. Because this was the last row, you can also store your belongings behind your seat as well.
Entertainment-wise, the United entertainment system was loaded with a large selection of new Hollywood and international movies, TV shows, video games, and music entertainment. I was definitely able to find enough content to keep me entertained for the whole flight. WiFi was also provided on this flight and the prices were reasonable. And the best part, T-Mobile customers get free internet access.
Waiting at our seats were Sak’s Fifth Avenue branded pillows and blankets, an amenity kit, and a set of headphones. The headphones were nothing special but both the pillow and blanket were very nice. The pillow was plush and the blanket was large and super soft.
I really love United’s partnership with various companies and brands. I think they are unique (and quirky) and this amenity kit was no different. The particular kit was branded in partnership with the Wrexham AFC and it was pretty cool. I’m not the biggest soccer fan but again, I think it’s unique. The reusable canvas kit was branded with a simple Wrexham logo on the bottom and inside, there were socks, earplugs and a small pack of tissues. TheraFace branded hand cream, lip balm, and a cleansing towelette were also included along with a dental hygiene kit. **I’m doing an amenity kit giveaway with this post. Keep reading below to see how you can win one of these Wrexham-branded premium economy kits.**
As the final passengers were boarded, the Captain came on the PA to make his welcome announcements. He welcomed us on board and provided us with the details of our flight. We then pushed back from the gate and made our way to the runway for our 9-hour and 40-minute flight to Chicago.
Once we reached our cruising altitude, the seatbelt signs were turned off and the flight attendants prepared for our beverage service. I should note that the first service on this flight was very slow. It took about 45 minutes for the beverage cart to come down the aisle and the meal wasn’t served for another hour after that. It just felt very long. Drinks were served with a small bag of almonds.
For lunch, our options were either a chicken and rice or a vegetarian curry. I went with the chicken dish and it was pretty good. The rice pilaf was perfectly cooked and the chicken was moist and flavorful. The side Caesar salad though, was bitter and not great. The dessert was a package of chocolate truffles.
After lunch, my tray was taken away and the cabin lights were dimmed. The flight attendants then dimmed all the electronic window shades but did not lock them so that people could still control their own view.
Comfort-wise, these premium economy class seats were very comfortable. The padding was good; the recline was generous (about 6 inches) and the adjustable leg, foot and headrests were very supportive. Even though this was a daytime flight, I was able to put my seat back and get a couple of hours of shuteye comfortably. Honestly, this was a great premium economy class seat and I had zero complaints about it.
Service-wise, this crew was great. They were friendly and personable and they walked the cabin frequently. They were proactive in serving water cups throughout the flights and quality snacks were provided in the galleys in between meals.
About an hour and a half outside of Chicago, the cabin lights were turned on, and a pre-arrival meal was served. I don’t really know what it was, some sort of baked vegetable wrap, but it was tasty. It was served with a small side salad. Our plates were cleared shortly after that and the flight attendants then prepared for our arrival to Chicago.
United Airlines Premium Plus Overall Thoughts
Overall, I was very impressed with this flight. The seat, service, and amenities provided were all top-notch and it definitely felt “more premium” than regular economy class. Of note, the Sak’s branded pillow and blanket were very comfortable. The meals were tasty and even though everything was served on one tray, it felt more elevated than an economy-class meal.
What are your thoughts? Have you flown United Airlines Premium Plus product? If so, please leave your thoughts in the comments section below. Thanks for reading!
The other reviews in this series include:
- United Airlines Economy Class, San Francisco to Frankfurt
- Plaza Premium Lounge, Rome
- United Airlines Premium Plus, Rome to Chicago
- The Best Economy Class Seats on a United 787 Dreamliner
Amenity Kit Giveaway
I have two amenity kits to give away. All you have to do is comment below with your favorite soccer team and let me know if you want the white or black one. A winner will be chosen at random and I’ll respond to your comment if you are selected. This contest is open to anyone with a mailing address in the United States only. I’ll draw a winner on October 31, 2024.
What Is United Premium Plus?
United Premium Plus is United Airlines’ branded premium economy product, positioned as a distinct cabin between Economy Plus and Polaris business class. It is not the same as Economy Plus, which simply offers extra legroom within the economy cabin. Premium Plus is a separate, forward cabin with wider seats, dedicated meal service, priority perks, and an amenity kit.
The product is available on select widebody aircraft operating international long-haul routes, including the Boeing 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10, the 767-300ER and 767-400ER, and the 777-200ER and 777-300ER. The standard high-density Boeing 777-200 used on domestic flying does not carry Premium Plus. Travelers planning a transatlantic or transpacific itinerary are the most likely to encounter it, as it is not offered on short-haul or narrow-body domestic flying. Routes to Europe, Asia, Australia, and Latin America tend to carry Premium Plus, though availability varies by specific aircraft assignment. Checking the seat map at the time of booking will confirm whether Premium Plus is offered on a given flight.
United Premium Plus vs. Economy Plus vs. Economy
The naming convention trips up a lot of travelers. Economy Plus, Economy, and Premium Plus all sound like variations of the same product, but the differences are meaningful.
| Feature | Economy | Economy Plus | Premium Plus |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cabin | Main economy cabin | Main economy cabin (forward rows) | Separate premium cabin |
| Seat width | ~17 in | ~17 in | 18.7 in |
| Seat pitch | ~31 in | ~34 in | 38 in |
| Recline | Standard | Standard | ~6 in |
| Lie-flat | No | No | No |
| Meal service | Buy on board (intl: light meal) | Same as economy | Full hot meal + pre-arrival meal |
| Complimentary alcohol | No (domestic); varies intl | No (domestic); varies intl | Yes |
| Amenity kit | No | No | Yes |
| Checked bags (intl) | Varies by fare/status | Varies by fare/status | Two free checked bags |
| Priority boarding | No (unless status) | No (unless status) | Group 2 / Premier Access |
| Lounge access | No | No | No |
The key takeaway is that Economy Plus is a row upgrade, not a cabin upgrade. Travelers who want a genuinely different experience in terms of food, seat width, and amenities need to buy into Premium Plus. The two free checked bags alone can close some of the price gap for travelers who would otherwise pay a la carte baggage fees.
How Much Does United Premium Plus Cost?
Cash fares for Premium Plus are route-dependent and fluctuate considerably with demand and booking window. On transatlantic routes, Premium Plus fares typically carry a meaningful premium over the economy fare for the same flight, though on competitive routes or with advance purchase, the gap can be narrower. On some itineraries, particularly during peak travel periods, Premium Plus fares can approach lower-tier Polaris business class fares, so it is worth comparing both cabins at the time of booking.
For travelers who prefer to use miles, United MileagePlus members can book Premium Plus award seats at a separate redemption level below business class. The exact mileage requirement depends on the route, the fare bucket, and whether United is the operating or marketing carrier. Award availability in Premium Plus can be limited, so flexibility on dates is helpful. Checking the United website directly or using the Excursionist Perk for multi-city itineraries is worth exploring for maximum value.
How to Book or Upgrade to United Premium Plus
Booking Premium Plus works the same way as booking any other United cabin: search on united.com and select the Premium Plus fare option when it is available for the route and date. The cabin is listed separately from economy and Polaris, so it will appear as its own fare class in the results.
Travelers who have already booked economy and want to move up can check the “My Trips” section on united.com. If a Premium Plus upgrade is available, the option to “Upgrade cabin” will appear and the cost can be paid with cash or MileagePlus miles. PlusPoints, which United Premier status holders receive each year, can also be applied to Premium Plus upgrades on eligible fares, though United’s full upgrade rules carry important nuances around eligibility, confirmation windows, and fare class restrictions. For travelers considering a step up to a fully lie-flat seat, it is also worth pricing United Polaris business class at the time of booking, as the gap sometimes closes on certain routes or promotional fares.
Is United Premium Economy Worth It?
For the right traveler on the right kind of flight, Premium Plus represents a genuinely strong value proposition. The 18.7-inch wide seat, 38-inch pitch, and roughly six inches of recline put it well above what any row of Economy Plus can offer, and the full meal service with complimentary alcohol, branded amenity kit, and priority perks add up to a meaningfully elevated experience over an economy ticket.
The cabin makes the most sense for long-haul daytime flying where a lie-flat seat is not a strict requirement. Taller travelers who find standard economy seats physically uncomfortable, passengers checking bags who would otherwise pay fees, and anyone who values a quieter, smaller forward cabin over the bustle of the main economy section will likely find Premium Plus worth the fare premium.
The case weakens on overnight red-eye flights to destinations like Asia or Australia, where being able to sleep flat matters most. Premium Plus reclines generously for a recliner but is not a lie-flat product, so travelers who sleep poorly in upright positions may find the upgrade money is better applied toward Polaris. Similarly, the lack of dedicated lounge access is a real gap for travelers who prioritize the full premium-travel ground experience.
On balance, Premium Plus earns its spot in United’s cabin hierarchy for daytime international travel. It is not a substitute for business class, but for travelers who find economy uncomfortable and Polaris out of reach on cash, it is one of the stronger premium economy products flying transatlantic routes today.
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is United Premium Economy?
United’s premium economy product is branded Premium Plus. It is a separate forward cabin sitting between Economy Plus and Polaris business class, offered on widebody aircraft including the 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10, the 767-300ER and 767-400ER, and the 777-200ER and 777-300ER on long-haul international and select transcontinental routes.
Is United Premium Plus Worth It?
For long-haul daytime flights it generally is, thanks to a wider seat (18.7 inches), more pitch (38 inches), two free checked bags, full hot meal service with complimentary alcohol, and a quieter cabin environment. It is a harder sell on overnight red-eye flights where a lie-flat seat is the priority, since Premium Plus does not recline fully flat.
What Is the Difference Between Premium Plus and Economy Plus?
Economy Plus is an extra-legroom zone within the main economy cabin, offering additional pitch but the same seat width and food service as standard economy. Premium Plus is a distinct premium cabin with a wider seat, better food and beverage service, an amenity kit, and priority check-in and boarding perks. Despite the similar names, they are entirely different products.
Does United Premium Plus Include Lounge Access?
No. Premium Plus fares do not come with United Club or partner lounge access on their own. Travelers who want lounge access before a Premium Plus flight will need an independent lounge membership such as Priority Pass, a credit card lounge benefit, or United elite status that confers Club access.
How Do You Upgrade to United Premium Plus?
Travelers can book Premium Plus directly as its own fare on united.com, or upgrade after purchase through the “My Trips” section using the “Upgrade cabin” option, which can be paid with cash or MileagePlus miles where eligible. Premier status holders may also apply PlusPoints toward Premium Plus upgrades on qualifying fares and routes.
Can You Change a United Premium Economy Flight?
Change and refund flexibility depends on the fare class purchased rather than the cabin. Most standard Premium Plus international fares allow changes without a change fee, though a fare difference applies if the new flight is priced higher. Travelers should review the specific fare rules at the time of booking, as terms vary, and confirm current policies on united.com before purchase.