United plans to begin charging passengers extra for seats toward the front of the
economy cabin, but behind the Economy Plus rows.
The airline is making the move in conjunction with the
implementation of its Corporate Preferred program, which will
offer new benefits to travelers whose employers have a corporate contract with
United. One benefit for those business
travelers will be free access to the front-cabin economy seats at the time of booking. Flyers with Mileage Plus Premier status will
also have free access to those seats.
Others will have to pay extra at the time of booking. United didn't say how much they would have to pay. If the
seats are not filled, they will be opened to all customers to select for free
at check-in.