Corporate Crime Reporter Morning Minute
Oct 22, 2026 · 1 min · 3 segments
Thursday October 22, 2026 United CEO Says It Should Cost More to Sit in the Middle Seat
Russell MokhiberHost
Getting stuck in the middle seat is one of the most dreaded parts of flying, and on many airlines, avoiding it now comes at a price.
On United Airlines, travelers without frequent flyer status are often paying extra just to snag an aisle or a window.
Now, United CEO Scott Kirby has made it clear that he has no problem with that.
In a new interview, Kirby defended charging customers to avoid the middle seat, arguing that the people who want a better seat should be the ones who pay for it.
Travelers who don't have status with United currently have to pay $70 to avoid being placed in a middle seat.
Getting stuck in the middle seat is one of the most dreaded parts of flying, and on many airlines, avoiding it now comes at a price.
On United Airlines, travelers without frequent flyer status are often paying extra just to snag an aisle or a window.
Now, United CEO Scott Kirby has made it clear that he has no problem with that.
In a new interview, Kirby defended charging customers to avoid the middle seat, arguing that the people who want a better seat should be the ones who pay for it.
Travelers who don't have status with United currently have to pay $70 to avoid being placed in a middle seat.
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