United launches new 'premium economy' class in between coach and business for long flights

United Airlines is rolling out a new class of service for travellers looking for something in between the two extremes on some of its longest international flights. United started selling seats in so-called premium economy class Monday. Travellers willing to pay what can be more than the regular coach class fare will get have bigger seats with deeper reclines than those in regular economy, amenity kits, free alcoholic beverages and noise-reducing headphones, among other perks. Other airlines around the world, including United's closest competitors at home, already offer a version of premium economy and are in the process of expanding it to more aircraft. It is part of airlines' efforts to slice their cabins into new sections to encourage passengers to pay higher fares to avoid the skimpiest services. <br/>