The most luxurious U.S. airline cabin experience could soon be in the skies, as United Airlines unveils its new Elevated interior for the Boeing 787-9. Slated for international routes beginning in 2026, the reimagined aircraft promises a fully upgraded journey across every cabin—led by the debut of United Polaris Studio suites, a caviar service, and the largest economy seatback screens in the world.
Polaris Studio: United’s New Flagship Experience
United Airlines is setting a new standard for luxury among U.S. carriers with the introduction of eight United Polaris Studio suites in the first rows of its business class sections. These lie-flat, all-aisle-access suites are 25% larger than standard Polaris seats and feature full privacy doors, Bluetooth connectivity, and wireless charging.
Each suite boasts a 27-inch 4K OLED screen—the largest among U.S. airlines—digital seat controls, and a seat companion ottoman with a seatbelt in most suites. Travelers can dine on exclusive entrée options and enjoy an Ossetra caviar amuse-bouche, paired with Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé Champagne. Additional amenities include luxury skincare from Perricone MD, hoodie-pajamas, slippers, and Saks Fifth Avenue bedding.
Other highlights include:
- Dedicated Global Reception® access
- Preferred boarding with Global Services®
- United-branded playing cards and snack boxes
- Access to all United Polaris lounges
Enhanced Polaris Suites and More Premium Seats
Beyond the Polaris Studio, the rest of the business class cabin is also receiving an upgrade. All Polaris seats on the Elevated 787-9 will be redesigned into suites with sliding doors, 19-inch OLED screens, Bluetooth, wireless charging, and fully digital seat controls. Travelers can select from different seat orientations—window-facing or center-facing for privacy, or aisle-facing for those traveling together.
The Elevated 787-9 will have more premium seating than any United aircraft to date. Here’s how the new layout stacks up:
| Cabin | Seats | Configuration |
|---|---|---|
| Polaris Studio Suites | 8 | 1st row, lie-flat with doors |
| Polaris Suites | 56 | 1-2-1 across two sections |
| United Premium Plus | 35 | 2-3-2, five rows |
| Economy Plus | 33 | 3-3-3 |
| Economy | 90 | 3-3-3 |
By comparison, the current United 787-9 configuration includes 48 Polaris seats and 149 in standard economy. The new design marks a dramatic shift toward a more premium-heavy fleet.
Upgraded Premium Plus and Economy Cabins
The luxury doesn’t stop in business class. United Premium Plus now comes with soft-touch materials, privacy dividers, 16-inch 4K OLED screens, wireless charging, and Bluetooth connectivity. Passengers also get new cocktail tables, water bottle holders, and dedicated headphone storage. This is the first time United Premium Plus features wireless charging and personal privacy dividers.
In Economy Plus and Economy cabins, travelers can expect the largest economy seatback screens in the world—measuring 13 inches in full 4K OLED. Each seat has Bluetooth connectivity and up to six power outlets per row. Seats are redesigned for better comfort with reclining mechanisms that cradle the passenger as they lean back.
Dining Redefined at 35,000 Feet
United Airlines has invested over $150 million in its onboard food and beverage offerings this year, and the results are rolling out in the Elevated interiors. A dedicated grab-and-go snack bar will be available for Polaris business class travelers, offering a curated selection of snacks from brands like Garretts, Community, and Joe & Seph’s.
Highlights of the new inflight culinary experience include:
- Ossetra caviar amuse-bouche in Polaris Studio
- Post-dessert snack boxes with sweet and savory treats
- Mid-flight regional tapas options
- Expanded economy class dining with appetizers, three entrées, and desserts
- Signature sundae carts featuring rotating Tillamook flavors
United Polaris also boasts an upgraded wine list with labels such as Heitz Cellar, VIK, and Shafer Vineyards. Aperol Spritz joins the drink menu, while new dishware, linens, and even red pepper flakes round out the gourmet overhaul.
Next-Level Connectivity and Delivery Timeline
Staying connected in the sky has never been easier. United’s Elevated 787-9 aircraft will be among the first in its widebody fleet to offer free Starlink internet for MileagePlus members. Unlike traditional in-flight Wi-Fi, Starlink delivers fast, reliable service—even over oceans and remote regions.
The first Elevated aircraft will be delivered before the end of 2025, with international routes launching in 2026. Destinations include San Francisco to Singapore and San Francisco to London. United expects to receive approximately 30 Elevated 787-9 jets by 2027. All future 787 deliveries will feature this luxurious interior.
Already the largest U.S. carrier across both the Atlantic and Pacific, United Airlines flies to 147 international destinations and continues to expand. With its bold new approach to comfort, dining, and connectivity, the Elevated interior may very well make United the most luxurious U.S. airline for international travelers.
