The changes will help United stay competitive among airlines that are rapidly enhancing their premium products amid a surge in passenger demand for seats that are larger, comfier, and more decadent than ever. Privacy doors and supersized suites were once the purview of only a few international carriers, but they have quickly become the industry standard for business class in recent years. “These new innovations provide a more premium experience overall, give customers even more reasons to choose United, and set our airline up to grow into the next decade and beyond,” Andrew Nocella, EVP and chief commercial officer at United, said in a statement. “We never stand still and are always looking for more ways to set ourselves apart from other carriers. And we’re confident this elevated experience will take international flying to new heights.”
With the new cabins, United is definitely leaning into the increased demand for premium seats: When the 787-9 planes are delivered, they will have a total of 99 premium seats, the highest number of premium seats in United’s fleet and the highest percentage among any US carrier. That figure includes the eight United Polaris Studio suites, 56 standard Polaris suites, and 35 Premium Plus seats (United’s version of premium economy). That’s 16 more business-class spots and 15 more Premium Plus seats than the airline’s current configuration on board its 787-9s.
But the airline isn’t just investing in premium seats: United is refreshing all cabins on its new Dreamliners. Fliers in regular economy can expect added conveniences like Bluetooth connectivity, and 13-inch entertainment screens—the largest seatback screens in any economy class in the world, according to the airline. Economy passengers will also get refreshed meal options, which will include three entrée choices, new desserts, and an appetizer course.
Fliers in Premium Plus will also benefit from new features like seat dividers, wireless charging capability, quartzite cocktail tables, and 16-inch entertainment screens. All passengers will have access to free in-flight Wi-Fi from Starlink if they have an account with United’s MileagePlus loyalty program.
While the first planes featuring the new cabins are expected to be delivered by the end of 2025, the first international passenger flights onboard the aircraft won’t happen until 2026. United plans to begin rolling out the new cabins on its routes from San Francisco to London and Singapore.
Moving forward, all of United’s Dreamliners will be fitted with the new seats, and the airline expects to have 30 of the new aircraft added to its fleet by 2027.