![]() It also provides the option to minimize the current selection to browse other sections, as well as automatically play the next episode in a series or suggest movies with similar themes and shorter durations than the remaining flight time.įlight attendants kindly offered complimentary wired earbuds to those in need, although this should not be necessary for passengers with Bluetooth headphones. The entertainment system itself is intuitive, allowing for quick glances at the flight map without pausing the current selection. While I cannot confirm whether this feature is fully functional on the retrofitted aircraft, its reintroduction is a welcomed addition. However, I was disappointed by the absence of live TV, a feature available on a significant portion of United’s 737 NG fleet.Īviation enthusiasts like myself will appreciate the return of “Channel 9,” now officially known as “From the Flight Deck.” This audio channel allows passengers to listen in on air traffic control (ATC) communications. In terms of TV options, I was pleasantly surprised to discover that many shows offered at least half a season’s worth of episodes. The extensive selection of movies includes a wide range of genres, with monthly updates introducing new releases and timeless classics. United offers my favorite in-flight entertainment system within North America, and as a frequent traveler with the airline, I have had ample time to explore its offerings. Following the video, the cabin was bathed in a calming deep blue mood lighting, maintaining this ambiance for the duration of the flight. With the introduction of seatback screens, the traditional manual safety demonstrations were replaced with United’s “Safety is Global” video, which was broadcasted throughout the cabin. Additionally, a retractable drink tray was available in the central armrest. I opted to store my cables in one of these compartments for better organization. The seat layout remained similar to previous versions, with an in-flight entertainment (IFE) remote available at each seat, as well as individual USB-C and power outlets.Ĭonveniently, the armrests featured three separate storage compartments, allowing for easy organization of personal belongings during the flight. The screen size impressed me, measuring an impressive 13 inches. Upon settling into seat 3F, I immediately noticed the enhanced padding, which provided a noticeably more cushioned experience compared to the previous-generation seats on the 737 MAX. A quick glance at the camera granted me access to board without presenting my boarding pass or passport-a neat and efficient process. Beginning at T-40, customers with disabilities, Active Duty personnel, United’s invite-only Global Service members, families with infants aged two and under, and finally United’s Premier 1K customers were called for pre-boarding.Īs a Premier 1K customer, I approached the podium with passport in hand, only to be informed that it was unnecessary as United would be utilizing biometric scanners. Boarding and CabinĪrriving at the gate 45 minutes before departure, just 10 minutes prior to the published boarding time, I observed the pre-boarding procedure. Thanks to this seamless check-in experience, I bypassed the traditional check-in counter upon my arrival at Houston. Utilizing the United app, I swiftly checked in for my international flight, a process that took a mere 3-4 minutes as the system verified my passport information and issued my boarding pass. To my satisfaction, I was automatically assigned seat 3F, which I typically prefer due to its window location in the last row, offering a better view of the aircraft’s wings. As a Premier 1K member on United, this perk was made possible. Ten days after booking my flight, I received a delightful surprise in the form of a text message notifying me of an upgrade. It was a pleasant surprise when I checked the United app a day before my flight and discovered that N801UA-one of the newly retrofitted aircraft-had been assigned to operate my journey, giving me the unique opportunity to experience firsthand the future of United’s Airbus fleet. Residing in the Mexican city of Leon, Guanajuato, I frequently travel the BJX-IAH route operated by United’s Airbus A319 fleet. The airline wasted no time implementing these retrofits, with three Airbus A319s and one A320 (as of July 2023) currently flying with the new cabin. This signaled the commencement of the extensive retrofit initiative, which would revolutionize United’s passenger experience. ![]() However, a notable milestone occurred when N801UA, a 26-year-old Airbus A319, returned to service in May after spending several months as the prototype for United’s new cabin.
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