United Airlines has officially reintroduced its beloved Ice Cream Sundae Cart to the Polaris Business Class cabin, reinstating a hallmark of luxury in-flight dining that was paused during the global health crisis.

With the resurgence of full-scale in-flight service, United’s signature made-to-order ice cream sundae is once again delighting passengers on all long-haul international routes in Polaris. For several years, travelers had to settle for individually packaged desserts, but the return of the classic cart marks a return to bespoke, interactive service at 35,000 feet.

We experienced the revitalized sundae offering firsthand on recent departures from San Francisco, where select flights to destinations such as Singapore, Sydney, Brisbane, and Frankfurt have been among the first to feature the revived cart. The elegant dessert trolley glides through the Polaris cabin following the three-course meal, offering a nostalgic yet elevated treat.

At the core of the experience is premium vanilla ice cream, which guests can personalize with an array of gourmet toppings—think rich hot fudge, pillowy whipped cream, juicy cherries, and playful additions like M&Ms, all curated to suit individual tastes.

This move aligns with United Airlines’ ambitious post-pandemic growth strategy. The carrier has made headlines with its record-setting order of 100 Boeing 787 Dreamliners (plus options for 100 more), the largest widebody purchase in U.S. aviation history. These next-generation aircraft are designed to eventually replace aging 767 and 777 models, supporting United’s goal to cut carbon emissions per seat by up to 25%.

By 2032, United anticipates a fleet renewal of approximately 700 new narrow- and widebody aircraft, with deliveries averaging three per week as of 2025. More than 95% of United’s international widebody jets now feature the acclaimed Polaris Business Class, recognized by industry experts for its comfort and innovation. The final retrofits were completed ahead of schedule last year, ensuring a consistent premium experience across the network.

United is not alone in elevating the in-flight dessert game; Delta Air Lines has also reinstated sundaes for its international business travelers, reflecting a broader trend toward enhanced culinary offerings among global carriers.

Explore our in-depth review of United Airlines Polaris Business Class