Aviation with Krish

United Airlines is making an investment into its airport lounges, with new clubs sporting modern design motifs. About two and a half years ago, the carrier opened a new United Club at Chicago O’Hare (ORD). The outpost in O’Hare’s Terminal 1 is a perfect example of one of United’s new Clubs with more seating and space for travelers. 

As part of a major summer domestic expansion, United began flying its sleek A321neos to its Newark hub in June from Chicago and Denver. The airline is expanding its route network for the aircraft type, which is set to become a major part of the backbone of United’s domestic fleet. United’s A321neos have a strong base at Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and feature the airline’s latest domestic First Class and Economy seats. A recent flight on the United A321neo in domestic First Class was the perfect opportunity for me to experience the carrier’s latest short/medium haul offerings. 

United operates an all-Boeing widebody fleet, with 767 aircraft primarily based at the carrier’s Newark hub. Majority of the 767s operating for United are of the -300 variant, which are the smallest widebodies (by size and number of seats) operating at United. However, the airline operates 16 of the slightly larger 767-400s. These jets mostly operate transatlantic flights between the East Coast and Europe. A recent flight on a seasonal route from Venice to Newark was the perfect chance for me to put United’s 767 Polaris product to the test. 

LaGuardia (LGA) Airport is home to several airline and credit card-operated lounges. But if there’s one lounge worth visiting and making sure you’re early enough to do so, it’s the Chase Sapphire Lounge by the Club. With swanky seating options, amenities that make you feel like you’re not in an airport, and fresh restaurant-quality food, the Chase Lounge sets the standard for future domestic airport lounges.

United Airlines is underway with retrofitting its Boeing 737s with newer interiors. The 737-800 makes up a large part of United’s domestic fleet and has a major presence at Chicago O’Hare, the carrier’s largest hub. United’s Next Interiors make flying more comfortable and set the standard for future domestic travel.

As a global capital of fashion and history, Milan has a lot to offer its tourists. I visited for the first time in the middle of August and instantly fell in love with the city. From its diverse architecture to its historical landmarks, Italy’s second largest city should be one on your European bucket list. Many of the attractions on this list are within walking distance of each other and public transport, such as buses, taxis, and a metro line, are easily accessible within the city. 

Within the heart of Milan is a luxurious hotel property outfitted with gorgeous rooms, fine dining establishments, and spacious facilities. It captures the modern luxury of the city blending comfort with the signature pleasing aesthetics present in Mandarin Oriental hotels. If you’re planning a hotel stay in the Fashion Capital, then the Mandarin Oriental Milan should be one on your list.

Known for its rich culture in fashion, history, and cuisine, Milan is a popular destination in Northern Italy. Among the airlines flying from the New York City area to Milan, you have Delta Air Lines, American, and Emirates from JFK. Meanwhile, United and La Compagnie fly nonstop from Newark to Malpensa International Airport (MXP). A trip in mid-August from Newark to Milan gave me the perfect opportunity to experience United’s Polaris Business Class on the 777-200.

Despite having been around since 2018, United’s Polaris Lounge in Newark (EWR) still holds its luxurious charm. There aren’t many lounges in the U.S. that capture the same exclusivity and tranquility as the Polaris Lounge. With several amenities and seating options that cater towards all travelers, the Newark outpost is one of United’s best lounges. 

Qatar Airways is consistently ranked as having the world’s best Business Class experience. Of course, this is all thanks to their industry-leading Qsuites. Additionally, the airline is known for having the world’s best Business Class Lounges at its hub in Doha. Qatar has two Al Mourjan Business Lounges, which may be convenient depending on where your flight is departing from. A recent Business Class flight itinerary from New York to Ahmedabad via Doha gave me the perfect opportunity to visit the Al Mourjan Lounge North (by the Orchid Garden) for the first time.