Boeing 787

Best Seats on the United Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner

United's 787-9 fleet operates Polaris business class in a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone. The original Polaris seat has a privacy wing but no door. The "Elevated" 787-9s delivered from spring 2026 add an enclosing suite door plus eight Polaris Studio suites — though the doors are locked open until the FAA finishes certifying emergency egress.

By

· Last reviewed 2026-07-25

Key facts

Airline
United Airlines
Aircraft
Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner
Family
Boeing 787
Business cabins
Polaris, Polaris Studio
Best seats
1A, 1L, 9A, 9L, 1A, 1L
Avoid
9D, 9G
Last updated
2026-07-25

Polaris — Business Class

Configuration: 1-2-1 reverse herringbone · Most 787-9s

Direct aisle access with a privacy wing, but no door on the original seat. Bedding by Saks Fifth Avenue.

Best seats: 1A, 1L, 9A, 9L

Avoid: 9D, 9G

Polaris Studio — Business Class

Configuration: 1-2-1 with door · 8 suites on "Elevated" 787-9s only

United's roomier business-plus product, sold at a surcharge and exclusive to the 787-9. Doors are fitted but locked open pending FAA certification.

Best seats: 1A, 1L, 2A, 2L

Avoid: No notable bad seats in this cabin.

Routes this aircraft flies

  • San Francisco to Auckland (UA940)
  • Newark to London Heathrow (UA16)
  • Houston to Sydney (UA101)

Frequently asked questions

What are the best seats in Polaris on the United Airlines 787-9?

The best Polaris seats on the United Airlines 787-9 are 1A, 1L, 9A, 9L. The configuration is 1-2-1 reverse herringbone. Direct aisle access with a privacy wing, but no door on the original seat. Bedding by Saks Fifth Avenue.

Which seats should I avoid in Polaris on the United Airlines 787-9?

Avoid seats 9D, 9G in Polaris on the United Airlines 787-9.

What are the best seats in Polaris Studio on the United Airlines 787-9?

The best Polaris Studio seats on the United Airlines 787-9 are 1A, 1L, 2A, 2L. The configuration is 1-2-1 with door. United's roomier business-plus product, sold at a surcharge and exclusive to the 787-9. Doors are fitted but locked open pending FAA certification.

What is the business class configuration on the United Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner?

The United Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner has a 1-2-1 reverse herringbone business class layout in the Polaris cabin.

What routes does the United Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner fly?

Typical routes include San Francisco to Auckland (UA940); Newark to London Heathrow (UA16); Houston to Sydney (UA101).

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