United Airlines' new business offerings may be the best thing that's happened to air travel

A Delightful Journey with United Airlines

Not since the invention of the lie-flat bed has a business class feature been quite the game-changer like this one. Particularly for those with a penchant for sweets. Picture this: you’re soaring at 38,000 feet, comfortably nestled in your recliner, post-gourmet dinner, when a marvel comes your way. An ice cream sundae trolley, complete with all the trimmings. On an airplane no less!

The In-flight Sundae Sensation

United Airlines takes the cake, if you pardon the pun, with this delightful offering. Passengers eagerly await the trolley that follows the meal, providing the opportunity to embellish scoops of vanilla or chocolate ice cream. Hot fudge, whipped cream, toasted almonds, M&M’s, and yes, a cherry on top are at your disposal. If there’s a more enjoyable dining moment in the skies, I’ve yet to encounter it.

Luxurious New Cabins

Last month, United Airlines introduced its splendid United Elevated interior. This includes innovative sliding privacy doors for all business class seats and a fresh studio suite experience.

Within the enhanced cabins, there are eight of these plush seats, strategically positioned at the front of each business class zone. These seats boast a 25% increase in size compared to the standard business class, providing that bit more privacy.

A Superior Lounge Experience

Polaris customers enjoy exceptional access to United Polaris lounges. Whether you’re in Chicago O’Hare or San Francisco, these lounges do not disappoint. I had the pleasure of using the Polaris Lounge at LAX. It offers luxurious shower facilities, an à la carte restaurant (the burger is divine), and a serene rest area with daybeds.

Configurations of Comfort

United’s business class presents a staggered 1-2-1 seat configuration, ensuring each seat has aisle access. Window seats are preferred, though. For ultimate comfort, seats 1L or 9L are prime choices. These seats are nestled closer to the window, offering both tranquility and unspoiled vistas.

Standard luxuries include ample legroom, Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, and noise-cancelling headphones. Premium mattresses are available upon request, perfect for comfort seekers like yours truly.

Culinary Delights

A treat for the taste buds, the in-flight meals are a celebration. The dining experience begins with champagne. A main course follows, which you can pre-order (roasted salmon was my choice). If hunger strikes later, there’s a grilled cheese sandwich and snack bar on offer, ensuring all cravings are met.

Seamless Technology

Navigating the hectic environment of air travel can often be challenging, but United’s stellar app is a revelation. From booking your flight to receiving real-time notifications, it caters to every need. My gate change alert? Sorted. In-flight updates? All timely and precise. The app certainly garners my approval for ease and efficiency.

Travelling Light

Your ticket permits two complimentary checked bags, each up to 32kg. I found this quite generous, though my luggage barely tipped the scales at 22kg. Premier Access also streamlines your journey with priority check-in and expedited baggage handling.


The author enjoyed this journey as a guest of United Airlines.