United Continental overhauls cabins

Lie-flat seating is being added to many United Continental cabins in a multi-million dollar overhaul.

United Continental is investing $550 million (£334 million) in the overhaul of its current fleet’s cabins – including the introduction of lie-flat seats and in-flight entertainment for those with cheap flights to Dubai.

The firm’s chief executive officer Jeff Smisek said that the move, which affects 62 of its long-distance aircraft, is the first step towards building a world-leading airline.

Speaking to the Wall Street Journal, Mr Smisek said that competing with Asian and Middle Eastern airlines will be tough, but he claimed the company was up for the challenge.

Meanwhile, Jim Compton, United Continental’s chief revenue officer, claimed that extra leg room is also being added to many of the firm’s planes and this will be offered free to the company’s frequent fliers.

The additional leg room is also available to customers booking Economy Plus flights.

United Continental, which was formed after a merger between United Airlines and Continental Airlines, is the world’s largest carrier in terms of traffic volume and is one of many operators offering cheap flights to Dubai.

Written by Nicholas Scott