What Can Travelers Expect From United’s Polaris Business-Class Seats?

Polaris is now offered on most United wide-body aircraft

United’s Polaris business-class seat is now offered on most of the airline’s wide-body aircraft. Polaris features an unusual layout, providing aisle access for every passenger, with alternating seats facing directly forward or at an angle. Polaris doesn’t offer privacy doors, unlike its contemporary Delta One Suite. As with many staggered seats, the layout means that roughly half have extra privacy: Those facing forward are either directly next to the window or over the side console, while those at an angle look into the aisle and feel a bit less private, so choose wisely.

On the Boeing 777 and 787, the center pairs of forward-facing seats are next to each other, with a divider that can be lowered—useful for flying with colleagues or a partner. The narrower 767-300 seats don’t have the second set, however. United worked with design partners Acumen and PriestmanGoode to create Polaris. Its overall look and feel was revolutionary—marble-effect side tables, textured surfaces, a combination of materials and color palettes that both branded the seat and broke up the wall of plastic so often seen in business pods—and has held up well, even without doors. Large monitors and a strong in-flight entertainment selection keep United at the forefront, while custom meal service items— plus linens and bedding in partnership with Saks Fifth Avenue—feel fresh.