United Airlines unveils new business class product

With a focus on sleep enhancement, United Polaris - named after the North Star - will be installed on United’s widebody fleet, with a debut on the airline’s B777-300ER in December. "United Polaris will change the game in international business travel with an exceptional level of relaxation and comfort throughout our customers' journeys," said Oscar Munoz, president and CEO of United. "This completely reconceived experience exemplifies the new spirit of United and the innovation, excitement and operational momentum across our airline."

The custom-designed suite-like pods each offer direct aisle access and a fully-flat bed of up to 6’ 6” in length. The personal suite will also feature a "Do Not Disturb" sign, mood lighting, one-touch lumbar support, several storage areas, multiple surfaces for working and dining, a 16-inch HD screen and, for seats in the centre of the cabin, electronic privacy dividers.

United Polaris has been inspired and informed by insights from hundreds of customers and employees, inflight product simulations and more than 100 product evaluations. “In rethinking the international business class experience, United conducted more than 12,000 hours of research, and sleep emerged as the single most important priority for international business class travellers,” a statement from the airline said.

With passengers’ sleep in mind, United has worked with leading luxury specialty store Saks Fifth Avenue to bring custom-designed bedding on board, including plush duvets, lightweight day-blankets and a large and small pillow. Slippers will be available on all flights, with pyjamas available by request on flights longer than 12 hours. New amenity kits will feature all the essentials - eye shades, dental kit, earplugs and additional products from Soho House & Co.'s Cowshed Spa.

In conjunction with the introduction of Polaris, United are providing an upgraded dining experience on board, with regionally influenced in-flight menus and a refreshed wine offering. Inflight service will also include made-to-order signature ice cream sundaes, a dessert cart with a variety of petit dessert options, chocolate truffles and wine flights. United will also open an exclusive portfolio of United Polaris business class lounges in nine locations around the world, including one at Heathrow. They will feature custom-designed chairs, private daybeds, spa-like showers and chef-inspired hot meals served in a boutique restaurant setting, according to the airline. Premium sparkling wines and spirits, refreshing snacks and bottled water will also be offered.

The first new United Polaris lounge will open at Chicago O'Hare International Airport on Dec. 1, 2016. Lounges in eight other locations – Los Angeles, San Francisco, Houston, New York/Newark, Washington Dulles, Tokyo Narita, Hong Kong and London Heathrow – will follow in 2017.