United Polaris is United's international business class. On the ground it comes with free checked bags, Premier Access and, on international flights, a lounge. In the air it means a seat that turns into a lie-flat bed, a sleep set and free drinks. Since spring 2026, United sells it in three fare tiers, and which one you book decides whether you get the Polaris lounge, flight changes and a refund. This guide covers what United says Polaris includes and how the tiers differ.
What Polaris Includes at the Airport
United says Polaris comes with free checked bags and Premier Access, which includes priority check-in and boarding, exclusive security lanes and more. The number of checked bags depends on your fare type. On international flights you can visit a United Polaris lounge or a United Club lounge, and which one you get also depends on the fare.
The Six Polaris Lounges
United Polaris lounges are exclusively for Polaris customers. United lists six: Chicago O'Hare (ORD), Houston Intercontinental (IAH), Los Angeles (LAX), New York/Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO) and Washington Dulles (IAD).
United describes spa-like shower facilities, a private rest area with soft lighting, daybeds and gentle white noise, and food from a buffet or a sit-down meal in a private dining space. If there's no Polaris lounge at your departure airport, United says you'll get access to another lounge.
Seats, Bedding and Amenities
Polaris seats are private, with direct aisle access, and they convert into a completely lie-flat bed. Mattress cushions are available on request. United lists noise-reducing earphones, larger entertainment screens, space for personal items and multiple charging ports.
For sleeping, United provides a custom Saks Fifth Avenue sleep set with a Saks Day Blanket, a duvet and a cooling gel pillow. Amenity kits are designed by Brooks Brothers and include eye serum, hand cream, socks, ear plugs and an eye mask. There are also slippers and an inflight sleep station with relaxing music. Pajamas are available on request on all flights to Africa, Asia, India, the Pacific and the Middle East.
Polaris Dining and Chef's Table
United says the main meal is served after takeoff and includes mixed nuts, an appetizer, a salad, bread and a made-to-order ice cream sundae. There are midflight snacks and a second dining service, and express dining is available on request. All drinks, including beer, wine and liquor, are free.
On select long-haul international Polaris flights, United runs a Chef's Table collaboration with multi-course meals designed by chefs tied to the departure city. Our Chef's Table report covers the newest dishes.
The Three Polaris Fare Tiers
United says that beginning in spring 2026 it offers three Polaris fares, and every tier has the same elevated onboard experience. They differ in what comes with the ticket:
- Base (new): seat selection for a fee, 1 checked bag and 1 carry-on bag. United Club access is included. The Polaris lounge, flight changes and upgrades aren't included, and the fare is non-refundable.
- Standard: seat selection included, 2 checked bags and 1 carry-on bag. United Club and Polaris lounge access are included, and so are flight changes. It can be upgraded to United Polaris Studio for a fee. It isn't refundable, but it's eligible for travel credit.
- Flexible: the same as Standard, but fully refundable.
United Polaris Studio
United describes Polaris Studio as spacious, modern interiors with doors for privacy, VIP dining options and premium experiences on the ground and in the air. It's available on select flights. Our reports on the 787-9 with Polaris Studio and the Las Vegas to Tokyo Polaris Studio flights show where it flies.
Which Fare Fits
The Base fare gets you the same onboard experience, but it doesn't include the Polaris lounge or flight changes, and it's non-refundable. Choose Standard if the lounge matters to you and you want to be able to change the flight. Choose Flexible if you might need your money back. Compare the three fares for your dates before you book.
