United Airlines is set to add larger overheard bins on its Skywest-operated Embraer E175 fleet, providing more room for passengers’ carry-on luggage.
SkyWest is the world’s largest E175 operator and operates more than 700 daily flights to more than 140 destinations on behalf of United Express – the regional arm of United Airlines.
The new bins on the regional jets will accommodate up to an extra 29 carry-on bags, marking an 80 per cent increase in space.
By the end of 2024, the bins will be available on 50 aircraft with a 76-seat configuration, and United added that there’s the potential to expand this to more than 150 aircraft by the end of 2026.
According to United, this move will mean that nearly one million annual passengers will no longer need to check in their bags on over 150,000 E175 flights.
Linda Jojo, United’s chief customer officer, commented:
“Customer sentiment for the new overhead bins and signature interiors has been extremely positive. By helping to eliminate the need to gate check bags, we are seeing an increase in gate and boarding satisfaction.
“This is just the latest way we’re working to create an industry-leading experience for all our customers – whether they’re on an international or regional flight.”
More than 200 of United’s mainline aircraft are outfitted with bins large enough to fit every passenger’s carry-on bag, and the airline is also in the process of retrofitting its domestic narrowbody fleet.
Every E175 aircraft outfitted with these overhead bins will also have braille and tactile placards, in a bid to improve accessibility onboard.
Last week United announced that it is now allowing members of its MileagePlus loyalty programme to pool their miles with family and friends into a joint account.
United allows loyalty members to pool their miles with friends and family
