Delta is to install fully flat bed seats in business class on its Boeing 767 fleet, including the airline’s services from the UK to Atlanta, Cincinnati and New York JFK.

The airline has announced it will install the seats from next spring on its 767-400s but will roll out the new seats to all 767s in due course.

The seats will extend to 77 inches when full reclined and be arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration in the cabin, meaning that every seat has direct aisle access. The seats will also include a 10.6 inch screen, video on demand, power sockets and USB ports.

Joanne Smith, Delta’s senior vice president of in-flight service and global product development, said: “We know our elite international business customers want the ultimate in high-flying comfort that only a true full-flat seat can give. Combined with our industry-leading entertainment and gourmet cuisine, this new in-flight experience will prepare Delta’s customers for success in the world’s top business markets.”

Business class passengers on the airline’s 757 services will have to make do with a recliner seat with 55 inch seat pitch.

Delta launches services from London Heathrow to both Atlanta and New York JFK from the end of March, when the US-EU open skies agreement comes into force.

United became the first major US carrier to offer fully flat seats in business class in November, with the launch of a new premium cabin on services between Washington and Frankfurt.