Flying with United in Polaris Business Class on the 787-9 from Melbourne, Australia to San Francisco was a truly delightful experience. This 14-hour flight is one of the longest on this route, and having an updated premium cabin made a significant difference. While Qantas Airlines is a leading competitor on similar routes, United has improved in many areas, offering a hard product that stands amongst the best.
For travelers seeking comfort and value, this is a solid choice, making long-haul flying much more enjoyable. Importantly, the seat design prioritizes sleep, which is crucial on a journey of this length. Though there are aspects where the airline could refine its overall service to compete even better, it’s being said that the airline truly offers a premium flying opportunity.
After a relaxing flight, a great destination like Dominica, known for its untouched beauty, might be a perfect place to unwind. Discover more in our guide on Dominica: The Best Caribbean Island You Didn’t Know Existed
Maximizing Value: Booking Business Class from Australia to the US Using Points
Finding a United Polaris Business Class ticket from Melbourne to San Francisco at a great value can be tricky, but I miraculously managed to secure mine for only 88.5K Air Canada Aeroplan Points and CA$190.60 in taxes. This was possible thanks to an 80% bonus that Air Canada was offering at the time for purchasing points, along with an extra 20% bonus for transferring from Chase Sapphire.
These types of deals come around a couple of times a year, and they can make premium travel much more affordable. Making the most of these promotions can turn a seemingly expensive redemption into a sweeter deal, giving travelers a taste of luxury for far less than expected plus maximizing their points value
If you’re looking for other ways to maximize your points for luxury travel, take a look at how to book business class flights with Qatar Airways’ Privilege Club
| Airline | Points Required | Taxes Paid (CAD) | Bonus Promotion Used |
| United Polaris | 88,500 Aeroplan Points | $190.60 | 80% Air Canada Bonus + 20% Chase Sapphire Bonus |
Selecting the Perfect Seat: A Guide to Finding the Best Option
When flying on United’s Polaris in the 787-9, the right experience starts with choosing the best seat. The Seat Map on United.com helps, but knowing where to sit makes all the difference. If privacy matters, odd-numbered window seats are the top pick, as they are tucked closer to the window, reducing disturbances from passing passengers and flight attendants.
These spots offer a cozier, cocoon-like feel, which is perfect for long-haul comfort and sleep. However, it’s wise to avoid Row 9, as it’s located behind the busy rear business class galley, making it noisy. Rows 8 and 12 are less desirable too—row 8 is in front of the galley, while row 12 is near bulkhead baby bassinets, which could mean a crying baby disrupting your rest. A terrible waste of an expensive business class ticket! Pro Tip: For an optimal experience, aim for odd-numbered window seats in the forward Polaris cabin, away from galleys and restrooms.
| Seat Type | Pros | Cons |
| Odd-numbered Window Seats | More privacy, closer to the window, quieter | Limited aisle access |
| Row 9 | Easy aisle access | Noisy due to rear business class galley |
| Row 8 & 12 | Close to bulkhead & bassinets | Potential noise disturbances |
Melbourne Tullamarine Airport Check-In: Navigating with Two Passports
The busy check-in process at Melbourne Tullamarine Airport can be overwhelming, especially in area C, where United flights to LAX and SFO operate. Unfortunately, I wasn’t able to check in ahead of time due to using a different passport for my Australia ETA and my flight back to the US.
Thankfully, I skipped the extremely long economy line at MEL by using the Premier 1K lane, where I practically walked directly to the counter. A Pro Tip for dual citizens—use the same passport for your U.S. entry and Australian ETA to avoid online issues. With two closely-timed flights, check-in for economy passengers can be lengthy, so arriving early is essential.
Melbourne Tullamarine Lounges: Air New Zealand vs. Amex Centurion vs. Plaza Premium
One of the best perks of flying United’s Polaris Class is having access to multiple lounges. At Melbourne Tullamarine Airport, I had ample time before my flight and decided to try all 3 options to compare. The Air New Zealand Lounge stood out with its spacious seating and excellent food, while the Plaza Premium Lounge, available through Priority Pass, offered a quieter environment. My Amex Platinum also opens the doors to the Centurion Lounge, which featured a more luxurious setting. This exploration of lounges added to the premium experience, making the wait before boarding much more enjoyable.
Inside the Air New Zealand Lounge
Stepping through the entrance of the Air New Zealand lounge at Melbourne Airport, I immediately noticed a special coffee-order machine, something I had never seen in any lounge before. I had to try it, and the variety of options—from decaf to soy milk, flat white vs. cappuccino—was impressive. The coffees, expertly made by skilled baristas, had a hipster-level quality that I could truly appreciate. It was a small but delightful luxury, setting the perfect tone for a relaxing pre-flight experience.
The Air New Zealand Lounge at Melbourne Airport boasts an inviting atmosphere with ample seating, space, and room to relax before a long flight. With multiple baristas crafting good coffee, a decent food selection, and a variety of drinks, it offers a comfortable pre-flight experience. Large windows let in natural light, enhancing the lounge’s open feel.
The lounge also provides typical bottled beer, various wines, hot dishes, sandwiches, wraps, and pastries, though the food is average to slightly above in quality—many would think restaurants offer better options. The availability of plenty of showers with no signup needed is particularly useful if you’re in a hurry. Additional amenities include a printer, making it a well-equipped space for both relaxation and productivity.
The Air New Zealand Lounge offers a relaxing space, but if you need privacy or a separate spot to work, you might be disappointed. There are no specific areas, compartments, or meeting rooms for business travelers, nor are there desks or offices for focused tasks. If you’re hoping for a private or comfortable sleeping option, the lounge does not provide that either. While it is a great place to unwind before a flight, those needing a quieter workspace may need to look elsewhere.
Amex Centurion Lounge vs. Plaza Premium Lounge: A Comparison
I was excited to try the Amex Centurion Lounge at Melbourne Tullamarine International Airport, Terminal 2, but it fell short of my expectation. While the entrance was beautiful, the lounge itself was actually slightly worse than the next-door entry-level Plaza Premium Lounge. It is run and operated by Plaza Premium, which made it feel apart from the exclusivity expected. The overall experience didn’t quite match the high standards one would anticipate from an Amex Centurion Lounge.
Walking into the AmEx Lounge, I immediately noticed the depressingly dark atmosphere—it almost had the feeling of a cave or even a dungeon. In contrast, the Plaza Premium Lounge at MEL felt much roomier, open, and welcoming when compared to the Centurion Lounge. While the Centurion space felt closed, the Plaza had windows that made a big difference.
Both lounges offered an espresso bar with a barista, but neither had showers. The bathrooms were shared between the two, yet despite being empty, they were surprisingly dirty and ill-equipped. The food selection was similar, though the Plaza lounge had slightly better options.
Final Verdict
Departing from Melbourne, the journey started at Terminal 2, where I explored different lounges before boarding. The Air New Zealand lounge stood out for its relaxing ambiance, premium amenities, and overall comfort. While it wasn’t the most extraordinary lounge I’ve ever visited, it provided a pleasant space to unwind before getting on board. Once in the air, the United Polaris experience continued the trend of refined service, making the long-haul flight smooth and enjoyable.
Seat 1A on United’s 787 Polaris: A Spacious Haven for Tall Travelers
Stepping onto United’s gorgeous 787-9, I walked through door 2L and took a left turn towards seat 1A—a spot that instantly stood out. Nestled in a quiet seat with lots of storage, this setup felt thoughtfully designed for both relaxation and efficiency. The legroom was impressive, making it a dream for taller travelers, and the overall seat setup offered an excellent mix of privacy and accessibility.
United has truly refined its Polaris offering, ensuring a seamless balance of creature comforts and practicality. From the moment I settled in, I was genuinely impressed by how well this space catered to long-haul needs.
Settling into seat 1A, I instantly remarked on how large and spacious it felt—a true sanctuary on this United aircraft. Unlike on the 767-300ER, where this spot is reserved for pilot crew rest, here, it’s an incredible option for passengers who value comfort.
The footwell is both full-sized and deep, allowing plenty of space to stretch out. United’s Polaris seats officially offer 6’6″ (198 cm) of sleeping space, but lying there, it seemed like it could accommodate even more. This impressively long and well-designed space made my journey feel effortlessly relaxing.
Flying in seat 1A on United’s Polaris felt like the ultimate epic avgeek experience. I had access to 3 windows, perfect for staring outside during takeoff and landing without obstruction. The nice, sturdy tray table made working easy, allowing me to stay productive while enjoying the view. There was plenty of storage space, and honestly, maybe even too many amenities—a rare but welcome problem to have on a long-haul flight.
| Feature | Benefit |
| Legroom | Extra spacious for tall travelers |
| Windows | Three windows for an amazing view |
| Storage | Plenty of compartments for personal items |
A Comfortable Spot for Sleeping – With a Few Exceptions
The seat in United Polaris doubles as a lounger, offering a supremely comfortable space to relax. The smooth rolling motor allows for endless angles and positions, making it easy to find the perfect setup. The adjustable headrest adds extra support, enhancing comfort for long-haul flights. United offers two blankets, including a day blanket, though neither felt substantial enough for my preference. Still, the additional snuggle pillow was a nice touch, making the space feel inviting, even if I’m not quite bougie enough to fully appreciate all the bedding options.
While seat 1A in United Polaris offers great comfort, it does have a small downside—it points towards the galley, which means a lot of light can come in during the flight. Depending on the level of excitement of the flight attendants, you might also experience some noise. A curtain could help reduce distractions, but at least the front galley is nearly quieter than the rear galley, which is situated between rows 8 and 9.
The left forward section of the cabin provided a quiet atmosphere, and since the lavatory was located next to the cockpit door, I wasn’t bothered at all by movement from other passengers. Unlike areas near high-traffic zones, this setup allowed for a peaceful experience without frequent disturbances, making it a great place to relax during the flight.
While the Seat 1L offers a premium experience, it does come with some drawbacks. In contrast to other spots in the cabin, this seat is positioned right behind the lavatory, which may lead to occasional disturbances. Additionally, it points towards the galley, meaning there can be some noise and light from crew movement. If you’re sensitive to such factors, this seat is not the most optimal choice for uninterrupted rest, though the overall comfort of the Polaris cabin still makes for a relaxing flight.
There are rumors that United might update its Polaris business class seats by adding doors, which would be a wonderful improvement for privacy. Right now, passengers in row 1 should be aware of some potential downsides, like the open design that might not block noise fully.
Not Without Flaws: Where United Falls Behind the Competition ft side
Flying United Polaris should be a top-tier experience, but I was genuinely shocked by the lack of cleanliness. From the moment I settled into my seat, I noticed dirt, dust, and grime hiding in every crevice and gap. The tray table had visible smudges, making me question the overall upkeep.
It felt like they had completely let go of the Covid-era tidiness that airlines once prioritized. While the service and comfort may still be strong, this level of negligence in hygiene is something they need to offer more attention to. Unfortunately, in this area, United really fell through.
The IFE in United Polaris is nice and sharp, but it feels surprisingly small when compared to other business class products. Airlines like Qantas, flying the same 787-9 on similar routes, offer a more advanced setup, making United’s system seem outdated. While the movie and TV selection were good, I noticed that the screen lagged at times, which slightly took away from the experience.
However, I still enjoyed browsing the flight map, which provided a detailed and engaging view of the journey. Yet, in this aspect, United struggles to stay competing at the highest level.
For Avgeeks, a flight isn’t just about comfort—it’s about the thrill of the journey. Many of us demand in-flight cameras that provide a live view from the tail or nose gear, offering a unique perspective that makes flying even more exciting.
Personally, I’d rather watch that than most movies, as it brings a deeper connection to the experience. Airlines like Emirates understand this passion and have set a high standard, making me wonder why United hasn’t embraced this feature yet.
United’s In-Flight Dining: A Continuous Improvement
United has noticeably improved its food quality, making the dining experience far better than before. Compared to my last journey on the 767-300ER from SCL-IAH, this meal service felt more refined. My tastebuds were genuinely delighted throughout the flight, even if it wasn’t as memorable as the legendary Lobster Thermidor served on Singapore Airlines. Still, the effort was clear, and while not quite at an epic level, the offerings are definitely moving in the right direction.
The menu on this flight had a pleasant surprise—Roasted Tasmanian salmon fillet. As a seafood lover, I was truly delighted to see this, and even more impressed by how well airliner steam-heat ovens handled the salmon. The texture and flavor were fantastic, making it one of the best in-flight meals I’ve had. It’s surprising that more American carriers don’t offer a fourth option for main courses, and the lack of variety is beyond my comprehension, especially when dishes like this prove how good airline food can be.
While passengers expect top-tier dining in United Polaris, I was worried when the purser asked for my second choice while taking my food order. If you’re paying several thousand dollars for a seat, the last thing you want is to settle for a backup meal. Can you imagine this happening at a fine dining restaurant? The airline should ensure that every meal is available, so travelers get the experience they deserve.
If you find yourself with a layover at Orlando Airport, you might want to know about great food options available in the airport. Read more in our Orlando Airport Layover Guide
Evening Meal Service
Settling into the United Polaris cabin, I was eager to try the dinner service, hoping it would match the premium experience. The meal began with a chilled crab appetizer, which was a decent start but didn’t quite impress.
The salad that followed didn’t taste as fresh or interesting as I had hoped, feeling like an afterthought rather than a carefully curated dish. Luckily, United doesn’t follow some of its competitors in over-salting the dishes. One highlight was the bowl of warm nuts—they ended up being far more delicious than the crab appetizer itself, offering a rich, toasty flavor that complemented the meal well.
Dinner on United Polaris felt more like a fine restaurant experience than an in-flight meal. The highlight was the salmon, which arrived perfectly cooked—tender, flaky, and at the exact temperature to bring out its rich flavors. It was moist, balanced, and perfectly seasoned, making every bite worth savoring. I found myself wanting to pause my movie just to fully enjoy it. If I had to pick a dish on United again, this would be it, every time.
Dessert on United Polaris was a treat, especially the indulgent sundae that felt more like a specialty dessert from a top-tier restaurant than an in-flight option. With crunchy almonds, rich caramel, smooth chocolate, and a tangy berry compote, it had the perfect balance of textures and flavors. The airline’s offer of customizable toppings made it stand out, proving to be better than what many other carriers provide.
However, layovers often create a unique opportunity to relax and recharge before your next flight. Get the most out of your layover experience by checking out our Layover Survival Tips from an Airline Pilot.
An Excellent In-Flight Experience
The mid-flight experience on United was designed with passenger comfort in mind, offering a well-curated menu that truly stood out. Their mix-and-match service allowed travelers to order tasty snacks anytime, up to 2 hours before arrival. I was excited to try it, but sadly, I was too focused on sleeping to remember to eat. Still, knowing such a flexible option exists makes the journey even more enjoyable.
Morning Meal
Waking up to breakfast at 2AM felt unusual for my body clock, but the frittata was surprisingly good—light, flavorful, and not greasy. The side of tasty sausages, potatoes, and a grilled tomato paired well with the fluffy eggs, making for a well-balanced meal. While the fruits and salad weren’t particularly fresh or great, the combination still made for a comforting start before landing.
Advantages
- The Main Courses stood out with high-quality ingredients and careful preparation, ensuring a flavorful and satisfying dining experience.
- Desserts were a highlight, especially the customizable sundae, which came with delicious toppings like almonds and berry compote, making it a delightful treat at 35,000 feet.
Disadvantages
- The pre-meal salad and fruits lacked freshness, which was disappointing for a premium cabin experience.
- Passengers are required to select a backup meal, which feels out of place for a premium service, reducing the seamless experience expected at this level.
The United App: Simply Outstanding
The United app is one of the best in the industry, offering a smooth check-in process and impressive features. Despite an ETA glitch preventing online check-in when traveling from Australia, the app stands out with a built-in flight simulator, real-time flight updates, and a status bar with countdowns to key events. The automatic seat selector is a game-changer, instantly grabbing a better seat as soon as one becomes available. It’s easy to see why frequent travelers love this app.
United has invested heavily in its technology, and it has truly paid dividends for travelers. There is no better app to search for Star Alliance award flights, making redemptions easier than ever. The app offers valuable information and useful tools, ensuring that no other one does the job quite like it. Whether tracking flights, managing bookings, or securing upgrades, I found it incredibly efficient and user-friendly.
I may sound like I work for United with how much I’ve been complimenting their app, but it’s simply that good. From smooth booking to real-time updates, it does everything a traveler needs. You’d think I have some affiliation, but I promise this is just genuine appreciation for a tool that makes flying easier.
WiFi: Looking Forward to Starlink…
Flying from MEL to SFO on United Polaris was an enjoyable experience—until I tried to access the WiFi. The connection, provided by Panasonic, was absurdly slow, making it frustrating to use for anything more than basic browsing. I had paid $20 for internet on my iPad, while my iPhone benefited from free access as a T-Mobile customer. Despite connecting, the service barely worked 90% of the time, constantly stalling when I tried to load pages. Both devices struggled, turning what should have been a seamless online experience into a test of patience.
Flying a transpacific flight with United is a premium experience, but the WiFi service has long been a weak spot. Currently, the airline relies on Panasonic as its provider, which often makes it hard to get work done midair. However, United is upgrading to Starlink, a move that many travelers, including myself, have been eagerly awaiting. The conversions are set to begin in 2025, so it may take awhile before every aircraft gets the update. This is just one of the many ways United is truly aiming to become the flagship carrier of the United States—a move that even Delta should take note of.
Possible Missing Points:
- Boarding Experience – While you covered check-in and lounge access, the actual boarding process isn’t described in detail. Was it smooth? Were Polaris passengers given priority boarding?
- Cabin Crew & Service – You touched on cleanliness and meal service, but how was the overall crew experience? Were they attentive and proactive? Did they engage well with passengers?
- Amenity Kit & Bedding Details – You mentioned the blankets but didn’t dive deep into the amenity kit (if provided) or how the Saks Fifth Avenue bedding compares to competitors.
- Arrival Experience in SFO – The conclusion lacks details on deplaning, immigration, and baggage claim. How was the priority baggage handling for business class
Frequently asked questions
What is United Polaris Business Class?
United Polaris is United Airlines’ premium business class product, offering lie-flat seats, enhanced dining, priority services, and access to Polaris lounges where available.
How did you book your United Polaris Business Class ticket?
I used 88,500 Air Canada Aeroplan Points and paid CA$190.60 in taxes, taking advantage of an 80% Aeroplan bonus promotion and a 20% Chase Sapphire transfer bonus.
What is the best seat in United Polaris on the 787-9?
Odd-numbered window seats are the best for privacy, especially in the forward cabin. Avoid Row 9 (near the galley) and Row 12 (near bassinets).
Does United Polaris offer lounge access at Melbourne Airport?
Yes, United Polaris passengers have access to the Air New Zealand Lounge, Amex Centurion Lounge, and Plaza Premium Lounge at Melbourne Tullamarine International Airport.
How is the seat comfort in United Polaris?
The seats are spacious and comfortable, with lie-flat capabilities and extra legroom, especially in Seat 1A, which is ideal for taller travelers.
How was the food quality on United Polaris?
The food has improved significantly. The Tasmanian salmon fillet was excellent, and the dessert, particularly the sundae, was a highlight. However, the salads and fruit could be fresher.
What are the main drawbacks of United Polaris?
Some key downsides include inconsistent cabin cleanliness, small in-flight entertainment screens, and the requirement to select a backup meal option when ordering food.
Does United Polaris have in-flight Wi-Fi?
Yes, United offers paid Wi-Fi options on its long-haul flights, though speeds can vary. Messaging apps work fine, but streaming may be inconsistent.
How was the service in United Polaris Business Class?
The service was generally good, but some areas could be improved, such as ensuring meals are available for all passengers and maintaining a cleaner cabin environment.
Is United Polaris Business Class worth it for long-haul flights?
Yes, if you value comfort, privacy, lie-flat seats, and lounge access. It’s especially great when booked with points, but Qantas offers a stronger overall hard product in some aspects.
Conclusion: A Strong Option with Potential for Improvement
Flying on United’s beautiful 787s is always a pleasure, and while this aircraft had the old paint scheme with its gold stripe, I actually like it better than the new blue livery. The Polaris Business Class cabin offers excellent value, especially when booked with points. The hard product, including the seat and dining, rivals competitors on Australia-US trans-Pacific routes, making it a solid option for long-haul flights.
However, there’s room for improvement, particularly in cleanliness, WiFi upgrades, and service tweaks that could further elevate the experience. Still, for travelers who prioritize comfort, practicality, and affordability, this remains a compelling choice. I wouldn’t hesitate to book the same flight award deal again.
Stephanie Kiley, founder of PilotXplore, is a commercial pilot and Doctor of Education based in Connecticut. I shares expert aviation insights, travel tips, and airline reviews, making air travel easier for all. Passionate about flying and learning, she loves exploring new destinations and simplifying aviation for travelers.