United Airlines has revealed the first phase of its United Polaris business-class program, with the full rollout culminating next year when a new fully flat business-class seat debuts. The initial phase focuses on elevated onboard dining, upgraded bedding, and the opening of the first of nine Polaris lounges, beginning at Chicago O’Hare International Airport.
Bedding designed by Saks Fifth Avenue includes plush duvets, mattress cushions, lightweight day blankets, a large and a small pillow for every passenger, and a gel-cooled pillow available on request. For flights longer than 12 hours, passengers will also receive slippers and optional customized pajamas. Amenity kits have been developed in collaboration with Soho House and Co’s Cowshed Spa.
Thousands of the airline’s existing pillows and blankets will be donated to the Fisher House Foundation.
The refreshed food and beverage service begins with a pre-departure welcome drink and gourmet chocolate. Morning departures offer a choice between a sweet, bubbly Mimosa or a savory Tito’s Handmade Vodka Bloody Mary, while afternoon and evening services let travelers build a personalized wine-tasting experience with a customized wine flight.
Menus are updated seasonally and tailored to regional tastes through a partnership with The Trotter Project. Additional onboard treats include made-to-order ice cream sundaes and a dessert cart for a more restaurant-like experience in the sky.
Cabin crew and Polaris staff will receive specialized training at Saks Fifth Avenue that introduces revised service procedures, including a shortened meal service designed to be both efficient and attentive.
The new Polaris business-class seat will first appear on United’s Boeing 777-300ER next year and will later be installed on the 767-300, 777-200, 787-10, and Airbus A350-1000 fleets.
Key features of the seat include a full recline-flat bed with direct aisle access, adjustable mood lighting, multiple storage compartments, electronic privacy dividers, and HDTV screens to enhance comfort and convenience for long-haul travelers.
United has opened the first Polaris lounge near gate C18 at Chicago O’Hare. Planned future locations for the remaining lounges include Los Angeles (LAX), San Francisco (SFO), Houston (IAH), New York Newark (EWR), Washington Dulles (IAD), Tokyo Narita (NRT), Hong Kong (HKG), and London Heathrow (LHR). Each lounge will feature custom-designed seating, private daybeds, spa-like shower facilities, bespoke art installations, and chef-inspired hot meals to create a relaxing pre-flight environment.