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United Airlines has officially opened bookings for its new long-haul cabin product. This marks the first time travelers can reserve seats on the airline’s redesigned Boeing 787-9 featuring its Elevated interior. The new aircraft, I first wrote about in May 2025 as part of United’s broader cabin overhaul, will make its international debut on April 22nd with flight UA 1 from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Singapore Changi Airport (SIN). A second route to London Heathrow Airport (LHR) is scheduled to launch on April 30th.
United’s latest Boeing 787-9 configuration represents a major shift toward premium seating, with just 222 total seats (significantly fewer than the airline’s current layout). The aircraft features 64 Polaris® Business Class seats in a 1-2-1 configuration (including eight new Polaris® Studio suites positioned in the first row). These upgraded suites are about 25% larger than standard Polaris® seats and include privacy doors, ottomans for companions, and enhanced onboard service such as upgraded dining (with caviar) and amenities.
In addition, the aircraft includes 35 Premium Plus seats arranged in a 2-3-2 layout and 123 Economy seats in a 3-3-3 configuration (including 39 Economy Plus seats with extra legroom). Compared to United’s current Boeing 787-9 cabins, the new layout adds more premium seating while significantly reducing economy capacity (this further highlights the airline’s focus on higher-yield travelers).
The Polaris® Studio suites represent the most significant upgrade in the new cabin. In addition to increased space, they feature large 27-inch 4K OLED screens, wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and enhanced bedding and amenities. Across the aircraft, passengers in all cabins will see upgrades, including seatback screens with Bluetooth connectivity, larger overhead bins, and additional power outlets.
Premium Plus passengers will benefit from redesigned seats with added privacy features, while economy travelers will have access to upgraded entertainment systems and improved onboard comfort.
United currently operates around 80 Boeing 787 aircraft and has more than 140 additional on order. The new premium-heavy configuration is expected to play a key role in the airline’s long-haul strategy over the next decade. These aircraft are designed to serve a range of markets, from ultra-long-haul routes requiring extended range to high-demand premium routes such as transatlantic flights. Some of the new Boeing 787-9s are also expected to replace older Boeing 767-300ER aircraft on routes where premium demand is strong.
Ahead of its international debut, the aircraft may operate on select domestic routes such as San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) for crew familiarization and operational testing. United plans to have at least 30 Boeing 787-9 aircraft with the Elevated interior in service by the end of 2027.
Andrew Nocella, EVP and Chief Commercial Officer at United, said:
The new era of premium air travel is coming soon with our first Elevated aircraft taking flight next month. Our new aircraft redefines international long-haul flying, providing travelers upgraded amenities and experiences in every cabin. We’re constantly pioneering new ways to differentiate our customers’ experience in every seat, and we’re confident they will love it.”
Anthony’s Take: With bookings now open, travelers can experience one of the most premium-heavy long-haul aircraft configurations among US airlines as United continues to invest in its international product. I can’t wait to check this out.
(Image Credits: United Airlines.)
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Advertiser & Editorial Disclosure: The Bulkhead Seat earns an affiliate commission for anyone approved through the links above This compensation may impact how and where links appear on this site. We work to provide the best publicly available offers to our readers. We frequently update them, but this site does not include all available offers. Opinions, reviews, analyses & recommendations are the author’s alone, and have not been reviewed, endorsed, or approved by any of these entities.
