United Airlines has announced the next phase of its long-term growth plan, with a major fleet expansion and a strong focus on improving customer experience. The airline expects to take delivery of more than 250 new aircraft by April 2028, marking the highest number added by any airline within a two-year period.

This move is aimed at modernising its fleet, introducing new aircraft variants, and bringing in upgraded onboard products across cabins. The plan also includes a refreshed experience for transcontinental travellers, helping United further stand out in the premium travel space.

As part of this expansion, United is introducing its new Airbus A321 “Coastliner” subfleet and A321XLR aircraft. These narrowbody jets will feature widebody-style comfort, including lie-flat seats in United Polaris with direct aisle access. The Coastliner will operate between San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Newark/New York, offering a premium cabin experience on domestic routes along with access to United Polaris lounges.

The airline is also bringing in upgrades to its international fleet. Its Boeing 787-9 aircraft with the new Elevated interior will begin international service on April 22. These aircraft include the United Polaris Studio, offering larger seats with privacy doors, enhanced dining with wine pairings and caviar, wireless charging, Bluetooth connectivity, and large 4K OLED screens.

United’s A321XLR aircraft will offer 32 premium seats, expanding comfort options on shorter international routes. These aircraft are expected to replace older Boeing 757s and will help the airline expand into new destinations in Europe and South America.

For regional connectivity, United is introducing the CRJ450, a redesigned aircraft aimed at providing a more premium experience. Operated by SkyWest, it will connect smaller cities to hubs like Denver and Chicago, featuring a spacious United First cabin and improved interiors.

The airline’s broader growth strategy builds on its “United Next” plan announced in 2021. Since then, United has added new aircraft, upgraded its fleet, increased premium seating, and expanded its workforce significantly.

“For more than a decade, we've invested billions of dollars in our product, service, and technology as part of our plan to be the best brand loyal airline in the world, and the result is that more and more customers are choosing to fly us every day,” said United CEO Scott Kirby. “Today we accelerate our plans and elevate our offerings to the next level, creating an even more consistent, premium onboard experience for every customer and delivering value across every cabin of service.”

“These new planes and products not only complement our fleet and network plans, but they also give our customers more premium amenity and seat choices, whether they bought a basic economy ticket to fly from Chicago to Ft. Wayne or are flying Polaris between San Francisco and Singapore,” said United Executive Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella. “United is setting the pace and innovating for our customers at a scope and scale unheard of in aviation history and we're not taking our foot off the gas.”

Alongside new aircraft, United is also enhancing onboard services for all passengers. This includes Starlink Wi-Fi for MileagePlus members, improved in-flight entertainment with seatback screens, better food and beverage options, and updated comfort features like improved blankets and earbuds.

With these additions, United is working towards offering a more consistent and comfortable travel experience across its entire network, while continuing to expand its global reach.