American Airlines and United Raise the Bar on Business Class

American Airlines and United Airlines are stepping up their international business-class game with new premium seat offerings, joining a wider industry trend aimed at capturing more high-spending travelers. American will debut its upgraded business-class “suites” next week on select Boeing 787-9 aircraft. These suites feature sliding doors for added privacy, wireless charging pads, and other upscale touches like a trinket tray.

Within this cabin, a subset of eight “Preferred” suites offers 42% more living space, available on a first-come, first-serve basis without any additional fee—for now. United, meanwhile, is upgrading its Polaris business class by adding sliding doors, 27-inch 4K screens, and introducing a new product called “Polaris Studio.” Located at the front of the cabin, these Studios feature larger spaces with room for a visitor and an ottoman. United says the Studios offer 25% more room than standard Polaris suites but has not disclosed how much more they will cost.

These enhancements follow Delta Air Lines’ earlier lead, which already includes Delta One suites with doors and a dedicated lounge experience for top-tier passengers. The push toward high-end seating has become increasingly critical for carriers navigating thin margins and rising operational costs. Airlines are betting that demand for premium travel will continue to outpace interest in lower-cost options like domestic economy seats, particularly during periods of economic uncertainty. American’s new suites are being priced at $5,747 roundtrip from Philadelphia to London in August, compared to just $867 in economy, highlighting the financial stakes of premium cabin upgrades.

Analysts say airlines are responding not only to a desire for luxury but also to the deteriorating experience in economy. The addition of lie-flat seats, private doors, plush bedding, and upgraded meals and drinks reflects this shift. United is elevating its service with amuse-bouche caviar, while American is letting passengers keep their Bang & Olufsen headphones until landing to enjoy more in-flight entertainment time. United also added red pepper flakes to its condiment options, demonstrating an attention to detail in food service.

The premium cabin upgrades are being paired with substantial increases in capacity. American expects to boost the number of lie-flat and premium economy seats by 50% by the end of the decade. United will fit its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners with eight Polaris Studios and 56 Polaris suites, up from the current 48-seat configuration. A first flight with the new layout is planned for early 2026 between San Francisco and Singapore, and 30 Dreamliners are expected to be retrofitted by 2027.

Despite warnings of potential economic headwinds, airlines remain bullish on the premium market, citing solid demand from wealthier travelers even during downturns. For American and United, the investment in privacy, comfort, and exclusivity signals a strategic bet that travelers will continue to pay for a better experience—especially when the economy cabin feels increasingly compromised.

Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, cnbc.com