United Airlines new business class offerings may be the best thing thats happened to air travel
Not since the advent of the lie-flat bed, has a business class offering been more of a gamechanger.OK, this might only be true if you’ve got as much of a sweet tooth as I do, but hear me out – you’re cruising along at 38,000 feet, feet up on your glorious recliner, full of your gourmet dinner, when something absolutely glorious, and unexpected, comes rattling down the aisle.An ice cream sundae cart! With all the trimmings! On a plane! I rest my case.United Airlines is famous for this particular in-flight miracle, which has reached icon status among its passengers.After your meal, the cart comes along, offering to adorn your vanilla or chocolate ice cream scoop with hot fudge sauce, whipped cream, slivered toasted almonds, M&Ms and a cherry on top.If there’s a better food experience on a plane, I haven’t had it.Last month, United Airlines unveiled its new United Elevated interior, which includes sliding privacy doors for all business class seats, and a brand new studio suite experience.There are eight of the new seats in each upgraded cabin, located at the front of each business class section.
They are 25 per cent larger than the standard business offering and offer even more privacy.I flew from Sydney to LA on the standard Polaris service, here’s how it went down.Like most business class offerings, your ticket includes two free checked bags, up to 32kg (70.5 lbs.) each, which is a challenge I was unable to meet, with my puny 22kg (48.5 lbs.) offering.You’re also entitled to Premier Access, which is essentially a priority check-in lane, and the promise of seeing your bags faster on the other side with priority bag handling.Polaris customers also get access to United Polaris lounges, where they are available (currently there are six, Chicago O’Hare, Houston Intercontinental, LAX, New York Newark, San Francisco and Washington Dulles).
Don’t worry, if there’s no Polaris Lounge at your departure airport, you will get access to a partner lounge o...