From CNBC: 2025-04-29 10:34:00

United Airlines reopened their top-tier Polaris lounge in Chicago, now 50% larger with Crate & Barrel furnishings, as airlines compete for high-spending customers. The 25,000-square-foot lounge in Terminal 1 at O’Hare Airport includes seating for 350 passengers, additional bathrooms, a “speakeasy-style” bar, and 50 seats for dining.

The Polaris lounge was first opened in 2016 for international Polaris cabin passengers, creating a two-tier lounge system with United Clubs. American Airlines and Delta Air Lines have since adopted this model. Airlines are revamping lounges to cater to premium travelers as bookings in economy class have been lower this year.

United Airlines plans to expand the Polaris lounge at Newark Airport in June and is considering a new lounge at its Denver hub. Despite overcrowding last summer, the airline aims to grow its lounges and has opened grab-and-go lounges in Denver and Houston to accommodate time-pressed travelers.



Read more at CNBC: United Airlines grows highest-end Polaris airport lounge by 50%