United Airlines Unveils Luxurious New Cabin Design for Boeing 787-9

CHICAGO, Ill. — United Airlines introduced a significant upgrade to its airline experience with the launch of its new Elevated interior for the Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner on May 13, 2025. This redesigned cabin focuses on enhancing comfort and luxury for passengers on international flights, featuring the exclusive United Polaris Studio suites.

The new Polaris Studio suites, located in the first row of each business class section, will be 25% larger than regular Polaris seats and provide a variety of upscale amenities. Each suite will also include a massive 27-inch, 4K OLED touchscreen, which United claims is the largest among U.S. carriers.

“This is just one more step, many more yet to go, to create something really special in the sky,” said United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby at the unveiling event held in Brooklyn. “We’re going to keep investing. We’re going to keep innovating because we really are going to be the biggest, best airline in the history of aviation.”

United’s new design also features sliding doors for added privacy, along with an extra ottoman seat for companions. This new cabin experience will be available on United’s first 787-9 aircraft, expected to be delivered before the end of 2025, with international flights from San Francisco to Singapore and London set to begin in 2026.

The redesigned interior boasts a total of 99 premium seats, the highest percentage among U.S. carriers. Standard Polaris seats will also receive upgrades, such as larger 19-inch screens and sliding doors, creating a suite experience for passengers.

“To build the biggest of the best you have to continue to innovate, you have to continue to change,” United’s EVP and Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella said. “The changes are designed to make people excited to fly United every time.”

United has invested over $150 million in food and beverage improvements this year, including new menu options featuring regionally influenced dishes and a grab-and-go snack bar for business class customers. The Polaris Studio suites will offer exclusive dining experiences, including a caviar amuse-bouche service paired with Champagne Laurent-Perrier.

The unveiling of the new cabin design was briefly interrupted by protests from flight attendants demanding contract negotiations. However, United emphasized its commitment to safety, responding to operational challenges due to FAA staffing shortages at its Newark hub.

The airline aims to expand its fleet with at least 30 787-9 aircraft featuring the Elevated interior by 2027, positioning United as a leader in premium cabin experiences in the aviation industry.