This spring and summer, United Airlines is changing who can access its coveted Polaris business class lounges.
The major entry policy shifts are giving new types of fliers lounge access, while other passengers will be restricted from entering the illustrious areas that offer shower spas, gourmet restaurants and cocktails, and relaxation areas.
On the whole, Polaris Lounges are open only to passengers on certain fares in United’s Polaris business class cabin and specific fares with a handful of partner carriers.
The exclusive spaces available at six U.S. airports: Chicago O’Hare (ORD); Houston Intercontinental (IAH); Los Angeles (LAX); New York/Newark (EWR); San Francisco (SFO); and Washington Dulles (IAD).
Here’s what travelers should know about United’s Polaris Lounge policy changes.
Restricted Access for Star Alliance Partner Airlines
As of mid-April, 2026, United is tightening Polaris Lounge access rules for certain Star Alliance partner airlines.
Effective immediately, lounge access will only be extended to passengers in the following classes on specific carriers:
- First class passengers on on All Nippon Airways, Lufthansa, and Swiss
- Business class passengers on All Nippon Airways, Air New Zealand, and ITA Airways
- Business class passengers with basic or flex fares on Lufthansa, Swiss, Austrian, and Brussels Airlines
All other passengers on any additional Star Alliance carriers will no longer receive Polaris Lounge access. That includes fliers in business or first class on board Air India, or EgyptAir, or LOT Polish Airlines, and Singapore Airlines.
First-Ever Domestic Passengers Granted Entry to Polaris Lounges
Although certain Star Alliance passengers will no longer be given access to United’s swankiest lounges, a new segment of fliers are being granted entry for the first time ever.
This summer, domestic fliers will be able to enjoy the Polaris Lounge network’s lavish amenities. Previously, only international business class passengers were able to access the rarefied airport spaces.
The expanded access comes as United plans to launch its first Polaris business class cabin on a domestic route.
The plush lie-flat seats with privacy doors are coming to United’s new Airbus A321neo “Coastliner” planes, which will fly United’s West Coast hubs in Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO) and Newark/New York (EWR), starting in summer 2026. Passengers booked into domestic Polaris seats will be able to access Polaris lounges.
No Access for New ‘Basic’ Business Class Fares
United has also introduced a new tiered fare system for its business class cabins as of April.
The fares, which are now on sale, offer three levels—base, standard, and flexible—each come with a different range of perks and inclusions.
Standard and flexible business fares will still be granted Polaris Lounge privileges.
Base business class tickets will not afford access to the more upscale Polaris Lounges. Instead, fliers will have entry into United Club lounges. Although fliers in this fare class won’t get top-tier lounge access, it could still be worth purchasing for a long flight during which a lie-flat seat would help with sleep and relaxation.
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