In a recent statement, United Airlines have announced that it expects to be able to retrofit around fifty Bombardier CRJ200 aircraft into the new CRJ450 version by 2030. The new variant is supposed to be able to seat 41 passengers, reduced from 50.
Why the CRJ450?
United Airlines holds the CRJ450 in high esteem. In a recent quote, the company stated that:
“[It] is a first-of-its-kind regional aircraft, designed to evoke the feeling of a private jet experience for travellers in the United First cabin.”
To accommodate this change, United Airlines will remove the overhead luggage bins in this section to allow for a large luggage closet. In order for the modifications to the interiors to be made, a supplemental type certificate (STC) is required from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). The process of acquiring one is said to be ongoing at the moment.
At the end of last year, the company had thirty CRJ200s in its fleet. All of these aircraft had been sourced from SkyWest Airlines, and are now flying under the United Express brand allowing for 50 passengers to be accommodated. In a recent statement, SkyWest Airlines commented:
“We’re excited to partner with United to elevate the onboard customer experience, reimagining the CRJ200 into the enhanced CRJ450. Our first CRJ450 modification is in process, and we expect to begin operating this premium United Express product beginning in fall 2026, with more than 50 in service by 2028.”
Over 250 deliveries by 2028
In addition to the discussed aircraft, United Airlines has also stated that it intends to take delivery of 250 new aircraft by April 2028. Among these we see:
- 47 B787-9s
- 58 A321-200NX
- 28 A321-200NY(XLR)s
- 119 B737 MAX
When it comes to SkyWest Airline’s aircraft we see that the company currently houses 130 CRJ200s in its fleet. The average age of the aircraft is 23 years.
United Airline’s current Chief Executive Officer, Scott Kirby, has stated that this move is part of the larger plan United Next growth strategy which was initiated by the company in 2021. The plan claims to strive for a more consistent premium onboard experience.
What are your thoughts on these changes? Let us know in the comments below!
