United Airlines Unveils Luxurious Polaris Studio on New Boeing 787-9

NEW YORK, May 13, 2025 — United Airlines has officially unveiled its new “Elevated” interior for the Boeing 787-9 aircraft, set to debut next year on international flights. This innovative design introduces United Polaris Studio suites, which are 25% larger than the current business class seats and equipped with the largest in-flight screens among U.S. airlines.

At a launch event in Brooklyn, United CEO Scott Kirby emphasized the airline’s commitment to enhancing passenger experience in the air. “This is just one more step in our journey to create the best airline in the industry,” Kirby stated. The Polaris Studio suites will feature privacy doors, an additional ottoman seat, and exclusive dining options including a caviar amuse-bouche service. Each suite will boast a 27-inch 4K OLED touchscreen, making it a standout feature of the new design.

Standard United Polaris seats will also see upgrades, now featuring sliding doors and larger 19-inch screens. Passengers will have the option to choose between window-facing seats for added privacy or aisle-facing seats with lowering dividers for groups traveling together. The overall cabin redesign aims to offer a brighter, warmer atmosphere, with significant improvements in all classes of service.

Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella highlighted the enhanced experiences planned for all travelers. “To build the best, we must continually innovate and push boundaries,” he said. United has also invested $150 million this year to improve food and beverage offerings, focusing on high-quality dining experiences.

Expected to receive its first 787-9 aircraft with this new design by late 2025, United has scheduled initial flights from San Francisco to Singapore and London in 2026. This investment in premium services comes amid operational challenges, including staffing shortages at the FAA and airports. Activists from the flight attendants union made their presence known at the launch, calling for better contracts and conditions.

Despite these issues, United assures its customers of safety and reliability, as noted in a recent email to frequent flyers. The airline expects to grow its fleet further with more aircraft featuring the Elevated interior by 2027.