United aircraft will remove the dreaded middle seat in some rows

United Airlines plans to remove the traditional “middle seat” in some Economy Plus rows by replacing it with a fixed table. The new configuration will debut later this year on the airline’s Airbus A321XLR aircraft, offering an arrangement where the middle position between two passengers becomes a shared mini-desk. United says the table includes cup holders and provides space for a small snack or a travel-size board game, while extending extra elbow room to passengers seated on either side. According to the company, all 50 A321XLR planes will include one row with two middle-seat tables. The aircraft will also offer United Polaris lie-flat suites with privacy doors. United says it will release booking and pricing before domestic service begins in the fall and international service starts next year. A travel expert, Katy Nastro of Going, criticized the idea, citing concerns about paying extra to ensure an empty middle seat.