United’s Polaris Business Class has become one of the most talked-about premium cabins in the skies, and for good reason. As someone who’s logged countless hours comparing the world’s top carriers, I can say Polaris holds its own against heavyweights like Delta One, American’s Flagship Business, and even a few international legends. The perks go beyond the lie-flat seat: Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, elevated dining, and exclusive Polaris lounges give the experience a sharper edge than most U.S. competitors.
Where it really shines is on long-haul routes from United’s hubs. Think Newark to London or Marrakesh, San Francisco to Tokyo, Chicago to Frankfurt, or Washington Dulles to Johannesburg. These are flights where comfort isn’t optional, and Polaris delivers. The question isn’t whether it’s good…it’s whether it’s good enough to match (or beat) what other airlines are offering on the same routes.
#1 tip to find cheap United Polar tickets
Looking for a steal on United Polaris’ business class tickets? For 5 years, I’ve been using this site called Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights), which sends you alerts on airline deals, discounts, and mistake fares. It’s a total game-changer, saving me $10,000+ on flights each year.
Their $49/year premium version is well worth it- just one discounted flight pays for the whole thing. And if you’re into business/first class, you’ll want to sign up for their Elite version. Last year, this service saved me $2,750 on a first class flight and $1,500 on a business class flight. At just $199 year year, trust me, it’s a small price for massive savings. Try the 14-day free trial, and if you enjoy it, use my discount code JON25 to save 25%!
Overview of United Polaris Business Class
United’s Polaris business class is honestly one of the better products you’ll find on a US carrier these days. I’ve flown it multiple times, and it’s a huge step up from their old business class that was pretty terrible. You’re getting lie-flat seats that actually go completely flat (unlike some airlines that claim “lie-flat” but really don’t), direct aisle access for every single seat, and Saks Fifth Avenue bedding that’s actually comfortable.
The 1-2-1 configuration means you won’t be climbing over anyone to get to the bathroom, which is clutch on long flights. If you’re traveling solo, grab an odd-numbered window seat for maximum privacy. Couples should go for the center pair seats (even-numbered rows work best). The seats themselves stretch up to 78 inches when flat, so even tall people can sleep comfortably. It’s available on most of United’s wide-body aircraft now, though you’ll want to double-check your specific flight since some older planes still have the crappy old seats.
United Polaris Benefits
Here’s what you actually get with Polaris – and why it’s worth considering for long international flights. The lie-flat beds are the real deal with 78 inches of sleeping space, depending on which plane you’re on. Every seat has direct aisle access in that 1-2-1 layout, so you’re not stuck in a middle seat situation like some airlines still do.
Polaris Lounge access is where things get interesting. These aren’t your typical airline lounges – they’re actually pretty nice with spa-like showers, real food (not just snacks), and quiet areas where you can actually relax. If there’s no Polaris Lounge at your airport, you’ll get United Club access instead, which is fine but nothing special.
You get two free checked bags up to 70 pounds each, which is generous. Premier Access gets you through priority check-in, security, boarding, and baggage handling – basically cuts down on all the airport waiting. The amenity kits are from Away and include Sunday Riley skincare stuff, which is actually decent quality. On flights over 12 hours, they’ll give you pajamas if you ask early (they run out pretty quickly).
The dining is where United has really stepped up their game. They partnered with The Trotter Project for chef-designed meals, and it’s way better than the garbage they used to serve. You get real silverware and glassware, plus all drinks including premium alcohol are included.
- Read next: Best Business Class Airlines
Tips for Booking United Business Class Tickets
Booking Polaris without paying full price takes some strategy, but it’s totally doable. I’ve snagged some great deals using a few different approaches that actually work.
First, United offers two main upgrade paths: MileagePlus mile upgrades and PlusPoints for Platinum and 1K elite members. Mile upgrade costs vary wildly – I’ve seen anywhere from 10,000 to 20,000 miles for US to Europe, sometimes with a cash co-pay around $550. PlusPoints go through a waitlist system, so they’re not guaranteed but worth a shot if you have elite status.
Cash upgrade offers are hit or miss. United sometimes offers paid upgrades during booking or at check-in, but the prices can range from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars depending on the route. I’ve found the sweet spot is usually checking 24 hours before departure – that’s when they sometimes release cheaper upgrade options.
For finding cheap cash fares, I actually use Going.com (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights). Their elite version specifically tracks business class deals, and I’ve saved thousands using their alerts. Just last year I found a Newark to Berlin roundtrip in Polaris for under $2,800, which is pretty rare.
United credit cards can help too. The United Club Infinite card lets you earn up to 4,000 Premier Qualifying Points annually – spend $84,000 and you’ll hit Premier Silver, though you still need four United flights to qualify for status.
United Airlines Fleet: A Detailed Comparison
United’s fleet situation with Polaris is actually pretty good now – way better than a few years ago when you’d roll the dice on which plane you’d get. Most of their wide-body aircraft have been retrofitted or delivered new with the updated Polaris seats.
The Boeing 777-300ERs are the flagship planes with the best Polaris setup. These are what you want for long-haul international flights – everything works well and the seats are consistently good. The 777-200s are mostly retrofitted now, though some domestic routes still have the old 2-4-2 configuration that honestly sucks.
Boeing 787 Dreamliners (the 787-8, 787-9, and 787-10) all have Polaris, and these planes are really nice overall. The windows are bigger, cabin pressure is better, and you generally feel less beat up after long flights. I actually prefer these over the 777s for comfort.
Boeing 767-300s on transatlantic routes have Polaris too, though these are older planes. They get the job done but aren’t as nice as the Dreamliners. The 767-400ERs should all be done with retrofits by now.
Here’s the exciting part – United is rolling out new Boeing 787-9s with something called “United Elevated” interiors starting late 2025. These will have Polaris Studio suites (basically business class plus) and regular Polaris seats with closing privacy doors for the first time. First flights are planned for early 2026 from San Francisco to Singapore and London.
United Airlines Business Class Airport Experiences
The airport experience with Polaris is where you really start feeling like you’re getting your money’s worth. Premier Access gets you through everything faster – check-in, security, boarding, baggage – and it actually makes a difference during busy travel times.
Polaris Lounges are honestly impressive for a US airline. They’re currently at Chicago (ORD), Houston (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO), and Washington Dulles (IAD). I’ve been to most of them, and they’re all pretty solid with hot meals, full bars, shower suites, and quiet areas with daybeds.
The Chicago lounge just reopened after a major renovation and it’s 50% larger now with over 350 seats. They partnered with Crate & Barrel for the design, which sounds weird but actually looks really nice. San Francisco and Newark are probably the best overall, though Dulles has an excellent dining room.
If there’s no Polaris Lounge at your departure airport, you get United Club access instead. These are fine but nothing special – basic food, drinks, wifi, and seating. Way better than sitting at the gate, but not in the same league as Polaris Lounges.
One thing that’s actually useful: Polaris passengers get access to the international arrivals lounge at London Heathrow if you arrive before noon on a same-day ticket. Perfect for early morning arrivals when you need to shower and grab coffee before heading into the city.
In-Flight Comfort & Amenities on United Polaris
The Polaris seat itself is where United really turned things around. I remember their old business class was genuinely terrible – now it’s actually competitive with other good international business products. The seats go completely flat (not that weird angled thing some airlines do), and at 78 inches long, even tall people can stretch out properly.
Privacy is solid with the 1-2-1 layout. Window seats have decent privacy dividers, and you’re not sharing armrests with strangers. The center pairs work well for couples – you can actually talk to each other and share food without it being awkward. I’ve found the diagonal-facing center seats (odd rows) give you a bit more room, but the side-by-side ones (even rows) are better if you want to interact with your travel companion.
Entertainment system has a 16-inch screen with tons of movies and shows. The noise-reducing headphones they provide are actually decent quality. United is rolling out Starlink wifi across the fleet starting in 2025, so internet should be way faster soon. Right now it’s hit or miss depending on the plane.
The Saks Fifth Avenue bedding is legit comfortable – good pillows, soft duvet, and a mattress pad that actually helps. On flights over 12 hours, they’ll give you pajamas, but ask for them early because they don’t have enough for everyone. The amenity kit from Away includes Sunday Riley skincare products that are actually worth using.
Storage is pretty good with multiple compartments for your stuff, and charging options include regular outlets plus USB ports. I can easily set up my laptop and work comfortably if needed.
Food & Drink Onboard United Polaris Business Class
United’s food game has seriously improved over the past few years. They partnered with The Trotter Project to redesign their menus, and it shows. I’ve had some genuinely good meals on Polaris flights – way better than the mystery meat they used to serve.
You get actual multi-course meals with real silverware and glassware, not plastic. The wine selection is pretty solid too, with partnerships with places like Heitz Cellar and Shafer Vineyards. All alcohol is included, and they’re usually generous with pours if you’re polite to the flight attendants.
Pre-departure drinks, Bloody Marys, Mimosas, and wine flights are all available on request. They’ve added mid-flight snacks and pre-arrival cookies that you can request anytime. There’s also going to be a grab-and-go snack bar on the new planes with stuff from Garretts, Community, and Joe & Seph’s.
The new Polaris Studio suites launching in 2026 will get Ossetra caviar service and Champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé, which sounds pretty fancy. Regular Polaris passengers won’t get those perks, but the standard meal service is still solid.
I’ve found the quality can vary depending on the route and flight crew, but it’s consistently better than what most US airlines serve in business class. Just don’t expect Singapore Airlines or Qatar level food – it’s good for what it is.
United Business vs. United Polaris: What’s the Difference?
This confuses a lot of people, so let me break it down simply. United Business and United Polaris are different products for different routes, and you really want to know which one you’re getting before you book.
United Business is for shorter international flights – think US to Latin America, Caribbean, or some domestic transcontinental routes. It’s nicer than economy but not the full Polaris experience. You get enhanced check-in, better meals, and more comfortable seats, but they’re not lie-flat beds.
United Polaris is the real deal for long-haul international flights – Europe, Asia, Australia, Middle East, South America. This is where you get the lie-flat seats, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, Polaris Lounge access, and the full premium experience. It’s what you want for overnight flights where you actually need to sleep.
The confusion happens because both are called “business class” but Polaris is clearly the premium product. I’ve made the mistake of booking United Business thinking I was getting Polaris – learned that lesson the hard way on a flight to Mexico City.
When booking, make sure it specifically says “United Polaris” if that’s what you want. The planes are different, the service is different, and the lounge access is different. For anything over 8 hours, you really want Polaris if you can swing it.
Comparison with Rival Products
United Polaris holds up pretty well against other US carriers’ business class products, though each has its strengths and weaknesses. I’ve flown most of them multiple times, so here’s my honest take.
Delta One is probably United’s closest competitor. Both have lie-flat seats and decent lounges, but Delta One Lounges are generally nicer than United Polaris Lounges. Delta’s service can be more consistent, but United has better bedding with the Saks Fifth Avenue partnership. Delta’s food is hit or miss – sometimes better than United, sometimes worse.
American Airlines Business Class is more inconsistent than United Polaris. American’s flagship lounges are okay but not as nice as Polaris Lounges. Their newer planes have good seats, but you might end up on older aircraft with crappy 2-4-2 configurations. United has done a better job standardizing their product across the fleet.
JetBlue Mint is interesting because it’s more boutique-focused with better service on limited routes. If Mint flies your route, it’s often a better experience than Polaris, but United has way more destinations and international coverage. Mint also costs more usually.
United Polaris really shines for international travel because of their extensive network. You can get to way more places on United than JetBlue, and their Star Alliance partnerships give you even more options. For pure domestic travel, other airlines might be better, but for long-haul international flights, Polaris is competitive.
- Read next: Best Airport Lounges in the World
New United Polaris Studio (2026)
This is the exciting new development that’s launching next year. United is introducing Polaris Studio suites on their new Boeing 787-9s with the “United Elevated” interiors, and these sound pretty amazing for a US airline.
Polaris Studio will be 25% larger than regular Polaris seats with closing privacy doors – finally! There are eight suites total (four in each business class cabin) in the bulkhead rows. The entertainment screens are massive at 27 inches (biggest among US carriers), plus you get an extra ottoman where a companion can sit and dine with you during the flight.
The soft product sounds impressive too – Ossetra caviar service, Champagne Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé, exclusive entrée options, and special amenity kits with Perricone MD skincare. You’ll also get hoodie-pajamas, noise-canceling headphones, and access to the Global Reception area at airports.
These suites will be priced higher than regular Polaris (obviously), but United hasn’t released exact pricing yet. Based on similar products from other airlines, expect to pay 25-50% more than regular Polaris – so maybe $8,000-$12,000 roundtrip for premium routes like New York to Singapore.
First flights are planned for early 2026 from San Francisco to Singapore and London. United expects to have about 30 of these planes by 2027, so availability will be limited initially. I’m definitely planning to try it once it launches – sounds like it could be competitive with international first class products.
Current Pricing and Availability (2025)
Polaris pricing is all over the place depending on route, season, and how far ahead you book. Cash prices for one-way flights typically start around $3,000 and can go well over $6,000 for premium routes. I’ve seen Newark to London as low as $1,800 during slow periods, but San Francisco to Singapore regularly hits $8,000+ roundtrip.
Award bookings are usually a much better deal. United miles typically cost 80,000-100,000 miles each way for Europe, 80,000-120,000 for Asia. Partner awards can be cheaper – Air Canada Aeroplan sometimes has Europe flights for 70,000 miles, and Avianca LifeMiles offers 10% discounts with their subscription.
The sweet spot for cash bookings is usually 2-3 months out for international flights. Too early and prices are high, too late and availability disappears. I’ve had good luck finding deals during shoulder seasons – late fall and early spring usually offer better pricing.
United has been hinting at introducing “basic” Polaris fares (think like basic economy but for business class), which would strip out some amenities for lower prices. No timeline yet, but it’s something they’re considering to compete with other airlines’ unbundled business products.
For the new Polaris Studio launching in 2026, expect premium pricing – probably 25-50% more than regular Polaris. With only 8 seats per plane and limited routes initially, availability will be tight and prices high until they get more planes in service.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about United’s Business Class
Are you still curious about which airline is the best in the United States? Here are some popular questions (and answers) I get that will help decide whether United Polaris business class is the right option for you.
Does United Airlines have flatbeds in business class?
Yes, United Airlines offers flatbed seating in its business class, particularly in the United Polaris product. These lie-flat seats maximize comfort, especially on long-haul international flights.
Is United business class the same as first class?
No, United business class and first class are not the same. United’s first class is primarily available on domestic flights and offers a higher level of service and comfort than standard economy. United Polaris Business Class, on the other hand, is the premium offering for long-haul international flights. This is a more luxurious experience with amenities like lie-flat beds and high-end dining.
Do you get pajamas on United business class?
Yes, on select long-haul international flights in United Polaris Business Class, passengers have complimentary pajamas. It’s best to request them early in the flight, as they are available while supplies last.
Is everything free in United Polaris Lounge?
Yes, in the United Polaris Lounge, all amenities including food, beverages, Wi-Fi, and shower facilities are complimentary for guests. These lounges provide a luxurious and comfortable pre-flight experience for Polaris passengers.
How do I know if my United flight is Polaris?
To determine if your United flight offers the Polaris experience, you can check your flight details on United’s website or app. Look for the “United Polaris” designation in the flight’s class of service. Additionally, Polaris is typically an option on long-haul international flights and on select premium transcontinental routes. You can also check the aircraft type, as Polaris is available on specific aircraft such as the Boeing 777-300ER, 777-200, 767-300, 787-8, and 787-9.
- Looking to find international business class flights for under $1,300 roundtrip? You’ll want to sign up for Scott’s Cheap Flights (Going.com). While the free version is great for economy deals, the Elite version is what you’ll need to find cheap business and first class deals.
