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United Airlines focuses on premium cabins as it updates Boeing 767-300ER fleet

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United Airlines focuses on premium cabins as it updates Boeing 767-300ER fleet
Policy
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Scott Kirby, chief executive officer | United Airlines

United Airlines has made significant changes to its Boeing 767-300ER fleet, focusing on premium seating to increase revenue and meet evolving passenger expectations. The airline, a member of Star Alliance and led by CEO Scott Kirby, has operated the 767-300ER for over thirty years. This aircraft became central to United’s transatlantic and transpacific routes after joining the fleet in 1991.

In recent years, United has refurbished most of its 37 Boeing 767-300ERs with a premium-heavy configuration. Twenty-four aircraft now seat 167 passengers and feature 46 Polaris business class pods, 22 Premium Plus recliners, 43 Economy Plus seats, and 56 economy seats. Thirteen other aircraft retain a denser layout with 214 seats. The move aligns with industry trends as airlines seek higher returns from premium cabins amid saturated markets and fluctuating economy fares.

The Polaris business class cabin is United’s flagship long-haul product on these jets. It includes fully flat beds based on the Safran Optima platform, direct aisle access for each seat, amenity kits designed by Therabody, bedding from Saks Fifth Avenue, and enhanced meal service. Passengers also gain access to United Polaris lounges at select airports or partner lounges elsewhere.

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Behind Polaris is Premium Plus, introduced in 2019 as United’s premium economy offering. According to Andrew Nocella, Chief Commercial Officer at United Airlines: “United Premium Plus includes some of our high-end amenities from United Polaris, and is the perfect option for someone who wants an upgraded experience in the Economy cabin.” Premium Plus provides wider seats with more legroom than standard economy, additional amenities such as blankets and amenity kits, complimentary meals and drinks.

Economy Plus offers extra legroom compared to standard economy seating but shares similar basic features such as nine-inch HD touchscreens and AC power outlets.

Data from aviation analytics company Cirium shows that in October United will operate more than one thousand flights using these premium-fitted Boeing 767-300ERs. The Newark-London Heathrow route will see up to seven daily departures in each direction—the highest deployment of this aircraft type—followed by Chicago O’Hare-London Heathrow with three daily departures. Other key routes include Newark-Naples and Chicago O’Hare-Amsterdam.

Despite ongoing upgrades, the average age of the fleet is nearly thirty years old. United plans to retire all its Boeing 767-300ERs by 2027 as part of efforts to reduce emissions and operating costs while modernizing its widebody fleet with newer models like the Boeing 787.

Until their retirement, these aircraft will continue serving high-demand international routes where premium seating remains in strong demand among travelers seeking comfort on long-haul journeys.

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