
Photo courtesy: United Airlines
United Airlines has unveiled a game-changing upgrade to its international premium travel experience, setting a new standard for luxury among U.S. carriers. With the introduction of its United Elevated interior for its upcoming Boeing 787-9 fleet, passengers can expect unparalleled comfort, cutting-edge technology, and indulgent in-flight experiences designed to rival the world’s best airlines.
United Polaris Studio: A New Era of Business Class
Leading the charge is the airline’s new United Polaris Studio suites, an elevated offering that redefines business class luxury. Positioned in the first row of each business section, these exclusive lie-flat, all-aisle-access suites are 25% larger than standard United Polaris seats and include:
- Privacy doors for a truly secluded travel experience.
- An extra ottoman seat with a seatbelt for companions—perfect for those flying together.
- Exclusive entrée selections, including an Ossetra caviar amuse-bouche paired with Champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé.
- Premium amenity kits featuring luxury skincare products from Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+.
- Wireless charging and Bluetooth connectivity, offering seamless device pairing.
- The largest seatback screen among U.S. airlines—a 27-inch, 4K OLED touchscreen for immersive entertainment.
Upgrades Across United Polaris Business Class
Standard United Polaris business class is also getting an impressive overhaul, with sliding privacy doors, upgraded 19-inch 4K OLED screens, and access to United’s six award-winning Polaris lounges worldwide. Whether travelling across the Atlantic or Pacific, passengers are now treated to an experience that rivals the finest international carriers.
A Cabin Designed for the Future
The nose-to-tail transformation of the United Elevated interior means a refined, fresher, and warmer design across every travel class. With 99 total premium seats, United is now home to the highest percentage of premium seating among U.S. airlines, featuring:
- United Premium Plus seats, enhanced with privacy dividers, wireless charging, and larger screens.
- Bluetooth connectivity in every class, allowing passengers to pair their own wireless devices.
- The largest Economy seatback screens in the world—a 13-inch 4K OLED touchscreen offering next-level in-flight entertainment.
Culinary Excellence at 40,000 Feet
United Airlines has invested over $150 million this year alone in food and beverage upgrades, and the new Elevated interiors reflect that commitment.
- United Polaris Studio customers will be treated to an exclusive post-dessert curated snack box, featuring premium sweet, salty, and savoury treats.
- A new grab-and-go snack bar stocked with brands like Garretts, Community, and Joe & Seph’s will be available for business class travellers.
- United Premium Plus and Economy passengers will enjoy expanded dining choices, including three entrée selections, new desserts, and an appetiser course.
- Regionally inspired tapas service will be introduced for mid-flight meals.
Additionally, United Polaris will offer exclusive wine partnerships with labels such as Heitz Cellar, Shafer Vineyards, Chateau Beaucastel, and Champagne Laurent-Perrier, ensuring that premium beverage selections rival those of the world’s top carriers.
Connectivity Beyond Borders
With the introduction of Starlink connectivity, United Airlines is taking inflight Wi-Fi to new heights.
- MileagePlus members on aircraft with the Elevated interior will enjoy free high-speed Wi-Fi, ensuring seamless internet access across oceans, polar regions, and remote locations.
- Whether streaming content or staying connected for work, travellers will experience fast and reliable access throughout their journey.
Looking Ahead: The Future of United’s Premium Travel
United Airlines plans to take delivery of its first 787-9 with the Elevated interior by late 2025, with international passenger flights kicking off in 2026 between San Francisco and Singapore, as well as San Francisco and London. By 2027, the airline anticipates adding 30 new aircraft with Elevated interiors, ensuring that premium travellers enjoy the highest level of comfort across its fleet.
With luxury enhancements, cutting-edge technology, and a refined focus on passenger experience, United is setting a bold new benchmark for international premium travel.United Airlines isn’t just elevating seats—it’s elevating the entire journey.