United's new business class seat will make you weep as you head to economy
United Airlines unveiled Polaris, its new business class “experience,” on Thursday, calling it “the airline’s most significant product transformation in more than a decade.”
The new design — with suite-like pods — offers easy access to the aisle, lie-flat seats with up to 6’6” of bed space, mood lighting, lumbar support, storage areas and, well, you get the idea.
“United Polaris will change the game in international business travel with an exceptional level of relaxation and comfort throughout our customers’ journeys,” Oscar Munoz, president and CEO of United, said in a statement. The offering — targeted at wealthier passengers, in case that wasn't already obvious — is an attempt to put United's premium offerings on par with the best in the world (read: Gulf carriers), and win back premium fliers.
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The seats will debut on the airline's 777-300ER in December.
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United is clearly emphasizing the amenities that come with these seats.
“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 travelers,” the airline said in a statement.
To make sleep easier, there is in-cabin mood lighting, all that room to get comfy to sleep, new blankets and pillows, and pajamas and slippers.
To bring Polaris to the skies, United is partnering with aircraft manufacturer Boeing, cabin design manufacturer Priestmangoode, seat manufacturers Acumen Design Associates as well as Zodiac Seats United Kingdom, amenities suppliers Saks Fifth Avenue and Soho House & Co’s Cowshed Spa, and — last but obviously not least — food and beverage supplier The Trotter Project.
To complement the business seat offerings, United is also opening nine premium lounges around the world, with “custom-designed chairs, private daybeds, spa-like showers and chef-inspired hot meals.”
The first business class lounge will open at Chicago O'Hare on Dec. 1, 2016.
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