HOUSTON — United Airlines will bring its upgraded Boeing 787-9 aircraft to George Bush Intercontinental Airport in October, giving Houston travelers access to new premium cabins and expanded amenities on select international routes.
The airline will begin operating the Boeing 787-9 with its new “United Elevated” interior from Houston on Oct. 24, with flights to São Paulo/Guarulhos Airport in Brazil, Sydney Kingsford Smith Airport in Australia and Narita International Airport in Tokyo, a United spokesperson told Chron.
The aircraft will also begin flying from Houston to London Heathrow Airport on Jan. 5.
United introduced the upgraded interior in May as part of an effort to expand its premium international offerings. The aircraft will feature 99 premium seats, including new Polaris business-class suites.
The first row of each business-class section will feature United Polaris Studio suites. United said the aircraft will have eight of the suites, each with a lie-flat seat, direct aisle access and a privacy door.
The suites also include an additional ottoman seat, Bluetooth connectivity and a 27-inch 4K OLED screen. United will offer expanded meal options in the suites, including Ossetra caviar service and Laurent-Perrier Cuvée Rosé.
Passengers in other business-class and economy seats will receive expanded dining options, according to the airline.
United Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella said the upgraded aircraft would provide passengers with a more premium international experience.
The 206-foot Boeing 787-9 can accommodate up to 325 passengers, but United’s upgraded configuration will carry fewer passengers to make room for the additional premium seating and amenities.
United began operating the upgraded 787-9 from San Francisco International Airport this spring. From San Francisco, the aircraft currently serves London Heathrow, Singapore Changi Airport and Zurich Airport.
Houston will become the second United home airport to receive the upgraded Boeing 787-9.