As someone who’s flown United Airlines Business Class more times than I can count, across continents, cabins, and configurations, I can say this: not all business class experiences are built the same. United has made huge strides in recent years, particularly with its Polaris product. But even within the same airline, you’ll find noticeable differences depending on the aircraft, route, and crew.
In this in-depth review, I’ll break down exactly what you get flying United Business Class, from seat comfort to inflight dining, entertainment, and exclusive perks. Whether you’re booking a long-haul transatlantic flight or upgrading on a short domestic hop, this guide covers what matters most, backed by real experience, not marketing fluff.
What Does United Airlines Business Class Offer in 2025?
United Airlines offers two main tiers of business class service: the standard Business Class product and the premium Polaris Business Class, which is used on most long-haul international flights and select premium domestic routes.
Aircraft & Configuration
- United Polaris is available on Boeing 777-300ER, Boeing 787-8/9/10 Dreamliners, and retrofitted Boeing 767-300ERs.
- Standard Business Class is still common on some Boeing 757s, 737 MAX aircraft, and domestic-configured 777s and 787s.
United has steadily replaced older layouts with its Polaris seating, but you should always check the seat map before booking. On some routes, you’ll get the full Polaris experience. On others, it’s just a recliner seat with better service.
How Comfortable Are the Business Class Seats on United Airlines?
After hundreds of hours in these seats, I can confidently say the Polaris seat is United’s most competitive offering, especially on the 777 and 787 Dreamliner.
What Is the United Polaris Seat Layout?
The Polaris cabin features lie-flat seats with direct aisle access, arranged in a 1-2-1 configuration. On 777-300ERs, there are 60 Polaris seats; the 787-9 typically offers 48.
Each seat includes:
- 6’6″ (198 cm) lie-flat bed
- Privacy panels and dividers
- Multiple storage spaces
- 16- to 18-inch HD entertainment screen
- Electronic seat controls with lumbar support
The seats are shell-shaped, giving you a semi-enclosed space, though not fully private like Qatar’s QSuites.
How Much Legroom and Recline Do You Get?
Here’s a quick breakdown by aircraft type:
| Aircraft | Seat Pitch | Seat Width | Bed Length |
| Boeing 777-300ER | 78 inches | 22 inches | 78 inches |
| Boeing 787-9 | 78 inches | 20.6 inches | 78 inches |
| Boeing 767-300ER (retrofit) | 75 inches | 21 inches | 75 inches |
You’ll notice the seat width is generous on the 777 but tighter on the Dreamliner.
Are the Seats Suitable for Long-Haul Flights?
Absolutely. Polaris is engineered for long hauls. United partners with Saks Fifth Avenue for its bedding, offering a mattress pad, two pillows (one cooling gel), and a plush duvet. I’ve easily slept 6–7 hours uninterrupted thanks to the tuned cabin pressure on the 787 Dreamliner, reduced engine noise, and full recline.
Just be aware: older 757 and 737 aircraft may still have angled-flat seats, which are less ideal for overnight flights.
What Dining Experience Does United Business Class Provide?
Dining in United Business Class has dramatically improved, especially on Polaris routes. I’ve enjoyed everything from short-rib beef with horseradish mash to Japanese miso salmon, and the presentation now rivals European carriers.
What Meals Are Served in United Business Class?
The offerings vary by flight duration and region. Here’s what you can expect:
- Transcontinental: 3-course plated meal (starter, main, dessert)
- Transatlantic & Long-Haul International: 4-course Polaris menu + mid-flight snacks + arrival meal
- Short Domestic: Single tray service with hot entrée or cold plate
Meals are crafted by United’s culinary team in partnership with chefs like Gerry McLoughlin. You can also pre-order your meal 30 days before departure via the app or website.
What Beverages Are Included?
All Business Class passengers receive complimentary premium alcohol and non-alcoholic drinks. Options include:
- Laurent-Perrier Brut champagne
- Selections of red/white wine
- Glenfiddich and Courvoisier
- Illy espresso, Thrive Farmers teas
- Craft beer and signature cocktails
One of my favorites? The pre-departure sparkling wine served in glassware, even on domestic flights.
How Is the Overall Dining Quality Rated?
Food has come a long way on United. Plating is now done in the galley rather than served pre-packed. Ingredients feel fresher, and the Polaris-specific dishware elevates the experience.
Still, quality can vary slightly by route. Outbound meals from U.S. hubs (like Newark or Chicago) tend to be superior to inbound options from some international cities.
What In-Flight Entertainment and Perks Are Available?
Entertainment and extras are where United Polaris really shines in comparison to its older products.
What Kind of IFE System Does United Use?
Every Polaris seat features an HD touchscreen display between 16–18 inches. Features include:
- 300+ movies, including new releases
- Full TV series, live sports, and HBO
- Podcasts, music channels, and games
- Noise-canceling headphones
You can also connect your personal device via Bluetooth on some aircraft, a new perk rolling out across the 787s and 777s.
Is Wi-Fi Available and How Much Does It Cost?
Yes, satellite-based Wi-Fi is available on most aircraft. Here’s a breakdown:
| Region | Price (Avg) | Speed | Notes |
| Domestic (USA) | $8–$15 | 5–10 Mbps | Stable for emails & browsing |
| Transatlantic | $19–$29 | 3–8 Mbps | Slower but usable |
| Pacific Routes | $25+ | 2–5 Mbps | Patchy over oceanic gaps |
United MileagePlus members can subscribe monthly for unlimited Wi-Fi starting at $49/month for domestic coverage.
What Other Perks Come With Business Class?
Every United Business Class passenger receives:
- Away amenity kit (with Sunday Riley products)
- Slippers, eye mask, and earplugs
- Access to Polaris Lounges at major hubs (ORD, EWR, SFO, LAX, IAH)
- Priority security, check-in, and boarding
- Extra baggage allowance (2–3 checked bags free)
These extras, especially lounge access, are a game-changer for international travel.
How Does United Airlines Business Class Compare to Competitors?
United Polaris vs. Delta One vs. American Flagship
| Feature | United Polaris | Delta One | American Flagship |
| Seat Privacy | High (semi-suite) | High (sliding doors on A350) | Moderate |
| Lounge Access | Polaris Lounge | Delta Sky Club | Flagship Lounge |
| Dining Quality | 4.1/5 | 4.3/5 | 3.9/5 |
| Entertainment | Excellent | Very Good | Good |
| Amenity Kit | Sunday Riley | Someone Somewhere | Shinola |
Delta One edges out Polaris in privacy with its door suites on the A350. However, United’s Polaris Lounge experience and bedding win over frequent flyers.
Is United Airlines Business Class Worth the Price?
Pricing can vary significantly:
- Domestic transcontinental: $750–$1,200
- International (Europe): $3,000–$5,500 round-trip
- Award flights: 60,000–80,000 MileagePlus miles each way (Saver level)
With a credit card like the United Club Infinite Card, upgrades become more accessible. I’ve often booked economy and used PlusPoints or Global Premier Upgrades to move into Polaris.
For long-haul international flights, United Polaris delivers clear value, especially when booked with points.
FAQs About United Airlines Business Class
Can I upgrade to Business Class after booking?
Yes. You can use PlusPoints, MileagePlus miles, or pay cash for upgrades at check-in or online.
Are pets allowed in United Business Class?
Pets are allowed in-cabin on domestic flights but not internationally in Polaris cabins.
How early should I arrive for Polaris check-in?
You should arrive 3 hours prior for international flights to take full advantage of lounge access and priority boarding.
Final Verdict: Who Should Choose United Business Class?
If you travel frequently for business or leisure, United Polaris is one of the most dependable premium products in the U.S. market. It excels in bedding comfort, lounge experience, and inflight consistency.
It’s especially ideal for:
- Business travelers needing rest and Wi-Fi
- Couples seeking privacy and luxury
- Frequent flyers redeeming miles for better value
If you’re on the fence about spending extra for Business Class, trust me: for long-haul international flights, it’s absolutely worth it.