United Is Rolling Out Larger Overhead Bins on Select Aircraft

26.03.2024 - 23:05 / travelandleisure.com / Linda Jojo / Airlines

United Airlines wants to make sure the days of fussing over overhead bin space (or involuntarily gate-checking bags) are long gone. 

The airline has announced that it will begin rolling out larger overhead bins onboard select Embraer E175 jets. Currently, United has more than 200 of these regional aircraft in service and plans to upgrade 50 SkyWest-operated jets with these new overhead bins by the end of 2024. 

With just 76 seats onboard on an E175 aircraft, these smaller planes are mostly reserved for shorter domestic connections, where travelers are likely to bring a personal item and carry-on bag. United says that nearly 30 more carry-on bags will be able to fit in the new E175 overhead bins — an impressive 80 percent increase in space, according to the airline.   

“Customer sentiment for the new overhead bins and signature interiors has been extremely positive,” said Linda Jojo, United’s chief customer officer, in a statement. 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.”

In total, United estimates that the new overhead bins will “nearly eliminate the need for one million annual passengers to gate-check bags.” Furthermore, the airline continues to make overhead bin space upgrades across its narrowbody domestic aircraft, such as its family of Boeing 737 fleet.

United requires carry-on bags to be no larger than 9” x 14” x 22”, including the handle and wheels.

The news also comes as United increased checked baggage fees last month, giving travelers another reason to avoid packing heavy for their next flight. The airline charges $40 for the first checked bag (or $35 if prepaid at least 24 hours in advance), and $50 for the second checked bag (or $45 if paid in advance).