United Airlines Airbus A321neo Takes Flight

Updated: December 1, 2023, 2:03pm CST

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United A321neo
A321neo Routes
Final Thoughts

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On Thursday, November 30, 2023, United’s first-ever Airbus A321neo took to the skies from Houston (IAH) to Chicago (ORD).

This is a big deal for a couple of reasons, one being that this is the first new Airbus that United has taken delivery of since 2002, and secondly, it features United’s new (and very nice) interior.

Let’s take a closer look at this aircraft, what you can expect onboard, and where you can fly it.

United A321neo

United’s new A321neo is not only quieter and more fuel-efficient than previous generations, but it also features the airline’s most advanced interior ever.

With 130 of these A321neos on order, this 2-cabin setup will make up a healthy part of United’s domestic fleet moving forward. The airline’s new A321neo will squeeze in 200 passengers, with 20 in first class, 57 in Economy Plus, and 123 in economy.

First Class

Passengers flying up front will be able to enjoy United’s brand new first class seat with extra privacy and state-of-the-art features.

United new domestic First seat — Image Credit: United

Besides being more comfortable, first class seats are packed with technology, including 13″ 4K screens, USB-A & USB-C charging options, and even wireless charging.

United A321neo WirelessCharging 1 — Image Credit: United

Economy

Economy passengers have plenty to look forward to as well, including LED mood lighting and Viasat Wi-Fi with speeds fast enough for streaming if you don’t like the onboard content.

Every seat will feature Panasonic NEXT IFE with 12″ 4K screens, Bluetooth connectivity, and USB-A & USB-C charging options.

United A321neo PanasonicIFE — Image Credit: United

Plus, the A321neo has the largest available overhead bins, with space for “every customer’s roll-aboard bag.”

United A321neo luggage bin copy — Image Credit: United

This means less chance of having to gate-check your bag — always a good thing!

Hot Tip:

There will be a self-service snack bar at the back of the plane for passengers to help themselves throughout the flight.

A321neo Routes

As more A321neos get delivered, routes will expand between Chicago (ORD) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Fort Myers (RSW), Las Vegas (LAS), and Orlando (MCO).

United A321neo ORD PHX — Image Credit: United

However, in the near future, you will find United’s new A321neos mostly flying between Chicago (ORD) and Phoenix (PHX).

Final Thoughts

The A321neo will be a nice addition to United’s domestic fleet, and with 129 more on the way, there is a good chance to fly one of these over the next few years.

The only negative is how many seats are packed into this narrowbody plane. However, with the updated cabins, the experience should be relatively comfortable for most passengers.