United Airlines is set to introduce a new "Elevated" aircraft interior on its new Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, starting with international flights next year. This comprehensive redesign aims to enhance the passenger experience across all classes of service.

A key feature of the new interior is the introduction of United Polaris Studio suites in the first row of each business class section. These suites, eight in total per aircraft, are 25% larger than the standard United Polaris seats and include privacy doors, an extra ottoman seat, exclusive meal options, and a caviar amuse-bouche service. Passengers in these suites will also enjoy luxury skincare products, 27-inch seatback screens, and hoodie-pajamas with slippers.

Standard United Polaris seats are also being upgraded with sliding doors to create individual suites and larger, 19-inch screens. Passengers can choose seats facing the window or the center of the aircraft for increased privacy, or opt for aisle-facing seats with adjustable dividers for those traveling together. A new, onboard grab-and-go snack bar will also be available to United Polaris business class customers.

According to Andrew Nocella, United EVP and chief commercial officer, these innovations aim to provide a more premium experience, attract more customers, and position the airline for future growth. United emphasizes that the Elevated interior will have "a brighter and warmer feel throughout," with improvements extending throughout the entire cabin.

United Premium Plus seats will feature privacy dividers and wireless charging capabilities. Economy seats will be equipped with what United claims are the largest economy class seatback screens in the world. The airline has invested $150 million in improving food and beverage services this year, including new mid-flight meal options such as a regionally influenced tapas service and expanded dining choices for Economy passengers.

United expects to receive its first 787-9 with the new interior by the end of the year, with the first passenger flights planned for 2026, serving routes from San Francisco to Singapore and San Francisco to London.

The announcement of the new aircraft interior comes as United Airlines addresses operational challenges at its Newark hub, including air traffic control equipment outages and FAA staffing shortages. In a recent email to frequent flyers, United assured passengers of the safety of air travel, highlighting the Department of Transportation's plan to update air traffic control systems and increase controller staffing. The email emphasized that neither the FAA nor United will compromise on safety.