The reimagined United business class international is a big step up from the airline’s old business class product. With a new business-class seat, bespoke amenities, comfortable Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and improved dining, this is a long-haul experience that’s hard to beat.
The only issue is that this product isn’t available on all long-haul international flights yet. However, with the retrofit program nearing completion, chances are high that your flight will feature United Polaris.
Seating
United business class international offers seats that recline and offer more legroom than the economy. It’s not the same as the premium economy or first-class products offered by other airlines, but it’s a good choice for those who are willing to pay extra for the privilege of a more comfortable flight.
You’ll find United business class on some short-haul international and U.S. transcontinental flights, and it’s also available on some long-haul international flights.
The airline’s business class on international flights is branded as Polaris, and this product has received a lot of press in recent years thanks to a number of improvements such as new retrofitted cabins with lounge access and a more luxurious experience for customers. However, some long-haul routes still operate with the older business class seat layout and passengers should be sure to check if they’re flying on one of those planes.
If you’re looking to upgrade your seating on a United international flight, look for the Polaris logo on the cabin door or at the back of the seat. Those seats convert into 6 feet of flat sleeping space, and each one comes with a 15-inch entertainment monitor and an array of sleep accessories.
Some of these seats are suite-like pods, with mood lighting and several storage areas. Each seat also includes a personal tablet that connects to a private WiFi network.
Amenities
Business class is United’s premium cabin service on short-haul international flights and some transcontinental flights. This class is not only known for its luxurious seats, but it also provides extra amenities and perks that can make your journey more comfortable.
United Business Class offers a number of perks including premier access, priority check-in and boarding, extra baggage allowance, dedicated cabin, lounge access, and world-class in-flight entertainment. You can also earn and redeem miles on this class.
UA has a variety of lounges in airports around the world where you can relax and enjoy a wide selection of drinks, snacks, fine dining, and a full range of entertainment options. Whether you’re flying to a new city or just want to have a relaxing time before your flight, these lounges are worth checking out.
Polaris Amenity Kits
As part of a first-of-its-kind partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue, passengers on United Polaris flights get a selection of luxury bedding including a quilted duvet, lighter throw blanket, and mattress pad. On longer flights, Polaris passengers can also request a pair of cozy slippers and a pair of pajamas.
In addition, passengers on United Polaris flights receive a pair of noise-reducing headphones that are perfect for sleeping or listening to music during your journey. The airline also provides passengers with a complimentary DIRECTV service that can be streamed directly to their seatback screen or personal device.
You can also purchase a variety of beverages on your flight. These include alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages. You can even upgrade to a wine or ice cream drink.
Dining
Business class passengers can look forward to a range of dining options aboard united flights, from entrees and snacks to desserts. They also get access to an in-flight magazine called Hemispheres, which features stories on sports, culture, style, and more.
Aside from meals, you’ll also receive an Away amenity kit, featuring items from Sunday Riley, ear plugs, and an eye mask. For longer flights, you can also request a pair of slippers and Saks Fifth Avenue bedding.
You’ll have access to in-flight entertainment on most long-haul international flights and can expect two free checked bags on your flight. You’ll also get an upgraded United Club experience and Premier Access priority check-in and boarding.
If you’re flying in the airline’s premium international Polaris business class, you’ll get a chef-redesigned, multi-course inflight dining experience. This means that flight attendants will serve each course at the same time, rather than serving them individually. The meal options vary from plane to plane and depend on where you’re headed, but they typically include a salad, entrée, bread, and a small snack.
The food was fine – I just wish they were a bit more creative with it. But it certainly isn’t the worst United has to offer, and it was a huge step up from what I would have received in economy class on similar flights.
Lounges
Airport lounges are an increasingly popular way to relax before a long flight. They offer comfortable seating, charging outlets, and complimentary food and drinks, among other perks. These are operated by most major airlines, including American Airlines (Admirals Clubs), Delta Air Lines (Sky Clubs), and United Airlines (United Clubs).
The ‘Big Three’ US carriers all operate their own lounges at their hub airports: American operates Admirals Clubs in Los Angeles, Chicago-O’Hare, Phoenix, Washington-National, Miami, Houston, and New York-LaGuardia; while Delta offers Sky Clubs in Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis, Salt Lake City, Seattle and Tampa.
All airlines have their own unique access rules for their lounges, which can vary depending on your fare class and status. Some can be accessed by using the right travel credit card, while others require a membership or elite status.
For example, United’s Polaris lounges can be accessed by passengers in business or first class who have traveled on an international long-haul route. In addition, those traveling in international first or business class on Star Alliance partner airlines may also be granted access.
United’s Polaris lounges are primarily located at long-haul airports such as Chicago-O’Hare, Houston Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark, and Washington-Dulles. They’re also available in London Heathrow and Paris Charles de Gaulle.