United Airlines Unveils Elevated Interiors and Polaris Studio Suites on New 787 Dreamliners

Source: United Airlines

Reported By: Matthew Kennedy

May 19th, 2025 – United Airlines is once again reshaping the premium flying experience with the debut of its Elevated interior and all-new United Polaris Studio℠ suites, a comprehensive redesign slated to debut on its forthcoming Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners. Melding technological innovation with elevated luxury, this rollout promises to set a new benchmark for U.S. carriers—one where refined design, privacy, and personalized service come standard.

Deliveries of the newly configured aircraft are expected to begin before the end of 2025, with the first long-haul routes launching in 2026 from San Francisco to both London and Singapore. United’s investment in its long-haul fleet signals a clear ambition: to lead the next chapter of global air travel with more premium seats, unparalleled onboard experiences, and a suite of thoughtful upgrades that anticipate every passenger need.

Positioned at the front of each business class cabin section, the Polaris Studio suites represent a top-tier experience—25% larger than the traditional Polaris layout, with full privacy doors and lie-flat seating. Each of the eight suites on board offers an extra ottoman with a seatbelt, allowing a companion to join for a meal or conversation. Designed with an eye for comfort and versatility, the suites feature 27-inch 4K OLED seatback touchscreens (the largest in the U.S. skies), wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, quartzite-topped tables, and wool-blend upholstery.

The amenity experience in Polaris Studio is equally impressive: Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, Meridian noise-cancelling headphones, Perricone MD Cold Plasma Plus+ skincare kits, plush slippers, hoodie-pajamas, a velvet ottoman throw pillow, and even United-branded playing cards for travel companions.

Culinary offerings are as elevated as the seats. Guests are greeted with an amuse-bouche of Ossetra caviar paired with Champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé. Meals are curated to reflect global palettes, followed by a specialty post-dessert snack box delivered directly to the suite.

The upgrades extend well beyond Polaris Studio. The redesigned United Polaris® suites—56 in total—now feature sliding privacy doors, lie-flat all-aisle access, larger 19-inch 4K screens, and digital seat controls. Travelers can choose between seats oriented toward the window or facing the aisle, catering to solo flyers or traveling pairs. Dividers can be fully lowered to bed height for shared rest.

United Premium Plus® also gets a significant boost with 35 upgraded seats—its highest count on any United aircraft. Each seat includes soft-touch materials, 16-inch 4K screens, Bluetooth connectivity, wireless charging, privacy dividers with built-in reading lights, and quartzite cocktail tables. These enhancements place Premium Plus in a tier of its own within premium economy.

United Economy Plus® and United Economy® also see sweeping upgrades. Each seat features a 13-inch 4K screen—the largest in the world for economy cabins—with Bluetooth pairing, USB-C and standard power outlets, and seat-bottom cradling for added comfort. Passengers will enjoy more refined inflight dining, with three entrée options, appetizer courses, and new dessert selections, plus a rotating menu of premium offerings.

Beyond hardware, United’s Elevated interior integrates Starlink’s global in-flight Wi-Fi service. Complimentary for MileagePlus® members, the connectivity spans oceans, polar regions, and remote routes, ensuring seamless access for business and leisure travelers alike.

Food and beverage investments now exceed $150 million this year alone. In addition to new glassware, linens, and cutlery, Polaris wine selections include partnerships with Heitz Cellar, Domaine Serene, Shafer Vineyards, and Chateau Beaucastel. Polaris customers can also expect updated mid-flight snack baskets, Aperol Spritz additions, and rotating regional menus featuring fresh, locally inspired dishes.

With 30 new Boeing 787-9 aircraft featuring the Elevated interiors expected to join the fleet by 2027, United is delivering a clear message: comfort, design, and global sophistication are no longer optional—they are the new standard.

From caviar amuse-bouche to intuitive privacy features and immersive inflight entertainment, the Elevated interior is more than a refresh—it’s a redefinition. For the global traveler who expects the exceptional, United’s newest 787s may offer the most luxurious path through the clouds yet.