United Plans 787-9s with 64 Polaris Business Class Seats
Let’s talk airplanes, specifically United Airlines and their big reveal. They’re rolling out new cabins for long-haul flights under a shiny new concept called “United Elevate.” But let’s dig deeper into what this really means for their fleet. United’s got a hefty order in for Boeing 787 Dreamliners—yes, those sleek ones—and they plan to jazz these up with a snazzy, ultra-premium feel.
United’s already sitting pretty with over 75 Boeing 787s, but they’re just getting started. They’ve got another 140+ on order, which will refresh their fleet over the next decade. With the upcoming 787-9 deliveries, expect an ultra-premium setup with just 222 seats. Here’s what that breaks down to:
- 64 Polaris business class seats spread across 16 rows, configured in a 1-2-1 setup. Eight of these are Polaris Studio seats, which is like business class with a fancy bow.
- 35 Premium Plus premium economy seats over five rows in a 2-3-2 layout.
- 123 economy seats in a 3-3-3 format, with 39 of those getting a bit more legroom.
How do they fit all these in, you ask? Picture this: the cabin layout is like a well-oiled machine. Between the first and second doors, you’ll find 32 business class seats. From door number two to three, there are another 32 business class seats alongside the premium economy crowd. The last section, from the third to fourth doors, packs in 123 economy seats.
Unique Seat Layouts
United’s gone all out with their seat configurations, opting for the Adient Ascent seats in business class. The arrangement is fascinating: in the forward cabin, seats are lined up in a reverse herringbone style, facing in. Meanwhile, the back section has a straight-up herringbone configuration, with seats facing out.
For a bit of perspective, United’s current 787-9 layout has 257 seats, including 48 business class, 21 premium economy, and 188 economy seats. So, this new setup adds 16 more business class seats, 14 extra premium economy seats, but nixes 65 economy seats. Talk about a trade-off!
United already boasts some of the largest business class cabins among US airlines, but this new configuration is set to up the ante. These planes are built to be versatile too. They could go long haul, thanks to the lighter aircraft load, or hit markets like London where luxury demands are high even if distance isn’t.
What to Expect Onboard United’s New Premium Dreamliners
Now, let’s dish on what you can expect inside these Dreamliners. They’re not only more premium but come equipped with all-new seats throughout. It’s a whole new level of style and comfort.
The superstar of the lot? The United Polaris Studio seating. Not just roomier, they feature upgraded amenities that scream luxury—think caviar amuse bouche and top-notch champagne. Yes, you’re flying, not dining in a five-star restaurant!
Expect doors on the new Polaris seats and some serious tech upgrades, complete with Bluetooth audio and high-def entertainment monitors. Talk about flying in style!
The Premium Plus section is stepping up too, offering more privacy and tech perks. Economy class? They’re not forgotten—bigger screens and Bluetooth audio are in, because, hey, everyone deserves a bit of luxury.
Tech gadgets also get an upgrade with Starlink Wi-Fi. This means super-fast, complimentary connectivity, among the first for United’s wide-body jets.
United’s New 787-9s Will Debut in Early 2026
The premium adventure kicks off with these Dreamliners set to join the fleet in late 2025. Get ready to catch the first flights in early 2026 from San Francisco to destinations like Singapore and London. By the end of 2027, expect around 30 of these aircraft in action.
Keep your eyes peeled—some of the existing planes might also get revamped cabins. That said, they won’t all get the ultra-premium treatment, so some might still pack in a few more seats.
Bottom Line
Come 2026, United’s rewriting the playbook on luxury air travel. They’re decking out the upcoming 787-9s with just 222 seats, including 64 of those flashy Polaris business class spots. Not only are these going to be the least crowded of any US airline’s jets, but they’re also flaunting United’s brand-new cabins, Starlink Wi-Fi, and other incredible features.
So, what do you think of United’s new premium Boeing 787-9s? Drop us a line when you catch a flight, or if you’re craving another kind of high, check out the Val Seny ski resort for an adrenaline rush of a different kind!