United Airlines expands Chicago Polaris Lounge with increased space and amenities

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United Airlines expands Chicago Polaris Lounge with increased space and amenities

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Becky Blaine Senior editor | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Jan 3, 2025

United Airlines has announced the temporary closure of its Polaris Lounge at Chicago's O'Hare International Airport (ORD) for renovation and expansion. The lounge, located in Concourse C, will remain closed for several months as it undergoes significant changes to accommodate more passengers.

The renovation plan, first revealed in an internal memo in August, aims to address overcrowding issues that have affected the lounge since its opening in 2016. Originally covering approximately 16,000 square feet, the expanded space will increase by over 50%, reaching nearly 25,000 square feet. United plans to double the seating capacity and introduce new amenities based on customer feedback.

A spokesperson for United confirmed that the remodeled lounge would include "premium" spaces, additional restrooms, private seating areas, and workspaces. Despite these upgrades, no visual renderings or drawings have been released yet.

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During the closure period, Polaris flyers are invited to use any of the four United Club locations at ORD. These clubs will offer enhanced complimentary premium beverage selections similar to those found in the Polaris Lounge. This includes offerings like Lanson Pere et Fils Brut Champagne and The Prisoner Red Blend wine.

The Chicago Polaris Lounge was United's first business-class-only lounge when it opened nearly a decade ago. Since then, United has expanded its Polaris Lounge network to five other airports: Houston's George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH), Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), San Francisco International Airport (SFO), and Washington's Dulles International Airport (IAD). Plans are also underway for a new Polaris Lounge at Denver International Airport (DEN) and an expansion at EWR.