Review: United 757 Business Class Newark to Los Angeles

A review-united-757-200-business-class-newark-los-angeles-new-ps-service is a detailed look at United Airlines’ transcontinental business class experience aboard the retrofitted Boeing 757-200. This premium service, often called “PS” (Premium Service), is tailored for coast-to-coast travelers seeking elevated comfort, priority perks, and lie-flat seating typically reserved for international routes. The Newark to Los Angeles route is one of the few in the U.S. offering long-haul amenities on a domestic flight, making this united 757 business class newark to los angeles review a standout among frequent flyers and business travelers.

Polished cabin interiors, attentive crew, and lie-flat seats aren’t just luxuries—they’re game-changers. With a product that blurs the line between domestic and international service, United’s PS offering turns a cross-country haul into something far more indulgent. It’s not just about getting from point A to B—it’s how you feel while doing it.

In this review-united-757-200-business-class-newark-los-angeles-new-ps-service, you’ll get a full breakdown of the booking process, cabin comfort, in-flight dining, and all the onboard perks. Whether you’re a seasoned business traveler or planning a coast-to-coast getaway, this in-depth look shows exactly what to expect before you board.

The Ultimate Guide & Flight Overview

Flying coast-to-coast in style has become increasingly competitive, with airlines battling for premium travelers. United’s Premium Service on the 757-200 aims to deliver a top-tier transcontinental experience. But does it deliver? This comprehensive review united 757 business class newark to los angeles explores every aspect of the journey.

When booking a transcontinental route from the East Coast to the West Coast, business travelers and premium leisure passengers have several compelling options. Among these choices is United Airlines’ Premium Service (PS) on their Boeing 757-200 aircraft. I recently had the opportunity to experience this service firsthand on flight UA2119 from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Los Angeles International Airport (LAX).

The Newark to Los Angeles corridor represents one of the most premium-heavy domestic routes in the United States, with business travelers willing to pay significantly more for a comfortable journey across the continent. United PS route service was designed specifically to compete in this high-value market against products like American’s Flagship Business, Delta One, and JetBlue Mint.

See Also: Review: United Polaris Lounge Washington DC (IAD)

Going into this flight, I was particularly curious about how United’s offering would compare to newer products in the market, especially given that the 757-200s aren’t the newest aircraft in United’s fleet. Would the experience justify the premium pricing? Would the hard product (the physical seat and cabin) feel dated? These questions were top of mind as I prepared for my six-hour journey across the country.

Booking Process & Value Analysis

I booked this flight using 35,000 United MileagePlus miles plus $5.60 in taxes and fees for a one-way Business Class cabin ticket. Had I paid cash, the fare would have been approximately $1,249, giving me a redemption value of about 3.5 cents per mile – substantially above the typical valuation of United miles.

When comparing the current pricing landscape for premium transcontinental service, here’s how United stacks up against competitors:

Airline	Product	Typical One-Way Fare	Points/Miles Required
United	PS Business	$1,100-1,500	35,000-50,000
American	Flagship Business	$1,200-1,600	32,500-50,000
Delta	Delta One	$1,300-1,700	45,000-95,000
JetBlue	Mint	$899-1,400	52,000-80,000

For last-minute bookings, United frequently offers PlusPoints upgrades, which elite members can use to move from economy to business. In my experience monitoring this route, upgrade space generally opens up within 24-48 hours of departure if business class isn’t fully booked.

The Award availability patterns I’ve noticed suggest that United generally makes more business class award space available on their PS routes compared to similar premium routes operated by Delta. This availability advantage can make United a more reliable option for those looking to book premium cabins with points.

Pre-Flight Experience

Terminal Navigation and Check-In

Arriving at Newark’s Terminal C, I was immediately reminded that this is very much United territory. The terminal has undergone significant renovations in recent years, with upgraded dining options and more modern aesthetics compared to the other Newark terminals.

I had checked in online the previous day and was traveling with only carry-on luggage, so I proceeded directly to security. With TSA PreCheck, I cleared security in about 7 minutes – relatively quick for Newark during a busy morning period.

United Club and Polaris Lounge Experience

As a Business Class cabin passenger on a transcontinental flight, I had access to the United Club Lounge. However, the real prize at Newark for eligible travelers is the Polaris Lounge, which is available to international Polaris passengers and those connecting to/from international Polaris flights within 24 hours.

“The United Club at Newark Terminal C near gate C74 offers decent amenities, but doesn’t compare to the Polaris Lounge experience available to international business travelers.” – Frequent United flyer overheard in the lounge

The United Club I visited was moderately crowded during my morning visit. The lounge offers:

• Continental breakfast spread with pastries, fruit, yogurt, and oatmeal
• Barista-made coffee drinks
• Complimentary well drinks, beer, and wine
• Various seating areas including work spaces
• Shower facilities (though limited in number)

The space was clean and well-maintained, but didn’t offer anything particularly memorable compared to other domestic airline lounges. I spent about 45 minutes here before proceeding to my gate.

Boarding Process

Boarding process began about 40 minutes before scheduled departure. United’s boarding procedures follow a group numbering system, with Group 1 including business class passengers and elite members. The gate agents maintained order efficiently, and I was onboard within minutes of boarding commencement.

Aircraft & Cabin First Impression

Stepping aboard the Boeing 757-200, I was greeted by a cabin crew member who directed me toward my seat. The 757 remains an impressive aircraft despite its age, with its distinctive long, narrow fuselage and powerful engines.

The Business Class cabin on United’s 757-200 PS configuration features 16 seats in a 2-2 seat layout across 4 rows. My first impression was that the cabin felt well-maintained but not brand new. The color scheme featured United’s navy blue and light gray tones, creating a professional atmosphere.

The mood lighting was subtle but effective, creating a calm environment during boarding. The cabin was clean, with no visible wear and tear on my seat or surrounding areas – impressive for an aircraft that’s been in service for many years.

Pre-departure beverage service began promptly, with choices of water, orange juice, or sparkling wine. I opted for sparkling wine, which was served in a proper glass rather than a plastic cup – a small but appreciated touch that set the tone for the service level to come.

Seat Details & Functionality

The flatbed seat domestic flight experience is what truly elevates transcontinental service above standard domestic first class, and United’s 757-200 business class seats are designed for this purpose.

Seat Specifications and Comfort

• Seat pitch: 76 inches (in lie-flat mode)
• Seat width: 21 inches
• Bed length when fully flat: 6’4″ (193 cm)
• Configuration: 2-2 layout (meaning all seats have aisle access or window views)

The seats are upholstered in leather and feature United’s standard business class design. While not the newest seats in United’s fleet, they remain comfortable for a transcontinental journey. The cushioning provided good support during both sitting and sleeping positions.

One of the most important aspects of any premium seat is the lie-flat capability. These seats recline to a fully flat 180 degrees, though they sit at a slight angle to the floor when in bed mode. I found the seat comfort to be very good, though not quite on par with United’s newer Polaris seats used on international routes.

Tech and Connectivity

Each seat includes:

• Universal power outlet (worked consistently throughout flight)
• USB charging port (charging speed was adequate)
• 15-inch touchscreen monitor (responsive but showing its age)
• Remote control for the entertainment system
• Reading light with adjustable brightness
• Personal air vent

The power outlets and storage options were practical and well-placed. My 15-inch laptop, tablet, phone, and other small items all had designated places where they could be secured during takeoff and landing.

Best Seat Selection

For solo travelers, the window seats (A and F) provide more privacy and a view. For couples or colleagues traveling together, the center pairs (D and E) make conversation easier.

Pro tip: Avoid row 1 if you’re tall, as the bulkhead can limit extension space for your feet when in lie-flat mode. Row 4 is closest to the premium economy section behind, which could mean more foot traffic and noise near the lavatories.

Amenities & Entertainment

Amenity Kit

The amenity kit provided was United’s standard domestic premium transcontinental version, contained in a reusable zippered pouch. Contents included:

• Sunday Riley lip balm and hand cream
• Earplugs
• Eye mask
• Dental kit (toothbrush and toothpaste)
• Pen
• Socks

While not as extensive as international business class amenity kits, it contained the essentials for a comfortable transcontinental journey.

Comfort Items

• Pillow: Medium-sized with good support
• Blanket: Light duvet-style covering, adequate for the cabin temperature
• Headphones: Noise-reducing (but not noise-canceling) with reasonable sound quality

In-Flight Entertainment System

The in-flight entertainment system featured a 15-inch touchscreen that was responsive but showing signs of its generation. United’s entertainment library included:

• Approximately 150+ movies (including recent releases)
• TV shows (full seasons of popular programs)
• Music albums and playlists
• Games
• Moving map and flight information

The system functioned reliably throughout the flight, with no freezes or restarts needed. The touchscreen response was adequate, though occasionally requiring a firmer press than modern tablets.

See Also: Miami–Aruba AA 737 MAX 8 Business Class Review

Wi-Fi Performance

United Airlines transcon flights feature Wi-Fi service, which I tested extensively during the flight. The connection was available shortly after takeoff and remained stable throughout the journey. Speed test results averaged:

• Download: 8.4 Mbps
• Upload: 1.2 Mbps
• Ping: 780ms

These speeds were sufficient for email, web browsing, and even some light streaming, though video calls would be challenging. The pricing was $25 for the entire flight, or complimentary for United MileagePlus Platinum members and above.

Dining Experience

The meal service began approximately 40 minutes after takeoff, starting with a hot towel service and drink orders. United’s PS routes feature an elevated dining experience compared to standard domestic service.

Beverage Selection

The drink menu included:

• Champagne: Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée Brut
• White wines: Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc options
• Red wines: Cabernet Sauvignon and Pinot Noir selections
• Full bar of spirits
• Craft beers
• Non-alcoholic options including specialty coffees

I started with champagne, which was properly chilled and served in appropriate glassware – a nice touch that elevated the experience.

Meal Service

The lunch service followed a structured format:

1. Appetizer: Smoked salmon with capers, diced red onions, and a side of mixed greens with balsamic dressing
2. Main Course Options:
   • Beef short rib with mushroom sauce, roasted potatoes, and vegetables
   • Herb-roasted chicken breast with polenta and broccolini
   • Butternut squash ravioli with sage butter sauce
   • Chilled chicken protein bowl (cold option)
3. Dessert: Vanilla ice cream with toppings or cheese plate

I selected the beef short rib, which was tender and flavorful – impressive for airplane food. The portion size was generous, and the presentation was attractive on proper dinnerware with metal cutlery.

Mid-flight, a snack basket was offered with premium chips, cookies, and fruit. Before landing, a light pre-arrival service provided a warm chocolate chip cookie and beverage choice.

Overall, the food quality exceeded my expectations for domestic service, rivaling what you might find on some international business class routes. The pacing of the meal was appropriate, taking about 1.5 hours from start to finish, leaving plenty of time to work or rest afterward.

Service Quality & Crew Interaction

The flight attendants on this service demonstrated professionalism and attentiveness throughout the journey. The business class cabin was staffed by two dedicated crew members serving 16 passengers.

Service highlights included:

• Greeting each passenger by name at least once during the flight
• Checking back after meal service to offer additional beverages
• Promptly responding to call buttons (under 30 seconds in my two tests)
• Proactively offering water throughout the flight
• Remembering drink preferences from earlier service

One particularly impressive moment came when a passenger requested a specific cocktail not on the menu. The flight attendant consulted with her colleague, found the necessary ingredients, and returned with the custom-made drink within minutes.

The service struck an excellent balance between attentiveness and giving passengers space – never hovering but always available when needed. This is particularly important on a transcontinental business route where many travelers need to work during the flight.

Sleep Quality & Comfort

After the meal service, I reclined my seat into the lie-flat position to test its sleeping capabilities. The flatbed seat domestic flight experience is one of the main selling points of premium transcontinental service.

The full lie-flat experience provided:

• Good support for side-sleeping positions
• Adequate width for changing positions
• Sufficient length for my 5’11” frame

The cabin temperature remained comfortable throughout the flight, neither too warm nor too cold. Noise levels were moderate – the 757-200 isn’t the quietest aircraft in United’s fleet, but the consistent engine white noise was actually conducive to sleeping.

I managed to get about 2.5 hours of solid rest, waking only once when we encountered some light turbulence. For afternoon transcontinental flights, this is valuable recovery time that you simply can’t get in economy or even premium economy seats.

Tips for maximizing rest on this flight:

• Select a window seat for better sleep positioning options
• Bring your own noise-canceling headphones
• Use the eye mask provided in the amenity kit
• Avoid the caffeine options in the beverage service if sleep is a priority

Arrival Experience at LAX

We touched down at LAX approximately 15 minutes ahead of schedule – a pleasant surprise for this often-congested route. The aircraft taxied to Terminal 7, United’s primary terminal at LAX.

Deplaning was efficient, with business class passengers exiting first through the L1 door. From touchdown to standing in the terminal took approximately 12 minutes – relatively quick for LAX.

For connecting passengers, Terminal 7 connects to Terminal 8 within the secure area, but connections to other airlines would require exiting security and potentially changing terminals via shuttle or walking.

Had I checked luggage, as a business class passenger, my bags would have been priority-tagged and among the first to arrive on the carousel. United’s premium transcontinental baggage handling generally performs well, with bags typically appearing within 15-25 minutes of arrival.

Comparative Analysis

How does United’s 757-200 PS Business Class compare to competitors on similar routes? Here’s my assessment after having flown all major transcontinental premium products within the past year:

American Flagship Business vs. United PS

• Seat: American’s seats on their A321T aircraft offer slightly more privacy with a 2-1-2 configuration
• Food: Both offer premium dining, but American’s Flagship dining (when available) edges out United
• Service: Comparable, with individual crew variations
• Entertainment: American’s system feels more modern
• Lounges: American’s Flagship Lounges (when accessible) surpass United Clubs

Delta One vs. United PS

• Seat: Delta’s newer A330 and 767 configurations provide better privacy
• Food: Delta’s catering program is slightly more ambitious
• Service: Delta’s service culture feels a bit more personalized
• Entertainment: Delta’s system is more advanced
• Wi-Fi: Delta typically offers better connectivity with free messaging

United PS vs. JetBlue Mint

• Seat: JetBlue’s newer Mint suites offer significantly better privacy
• Food: JetBlue’s partnership with restaurant-quality vendors gives them an edge
• Service: JetBlue’s smaller Mint cabins often allow for more attentive service
• Entertainment: JetBlue offers more live TV options
• Value: JetBlue often prices Mint more competitively

Assessment

Standout Positives

• Reliable lie-flat seating that delivers actual rest
• Efficient, friendly service
• Good catering for domestic business class
• Generous award availability compared to competitors
• On-time performance

Areas for Improvement

• Aging entertainment system technology
• Limited privacy in the 2-2 configuration
• United Club experience lags behind premium lounges of competitors
• Wi-Fi performance could be more consistent

Value Proposition

For travelers prioritizing sleep on transcontinental journeys, United’s PS Business Class delivers solid value. The flatbed seat domestic flight experience transforms what would otherwise be a potentially exhausting journey into productive or restful time.

The sweet spot for value is when booking with United MileagePlus miles, particularly during sales or when cash fares are high. At 35,000-50,000 miles one-way, it represents a reasonable premium redemption, especially considering that international business class can cost 70,000+ miles for not substantially more flight time.

See Also: Air Canada Express Business Class crj900 Review Regina Vancouver

Who Should Book This Product?

• Business travelers who need to arrive rested and ready for meetings
• Mileage redemption specialists looking for good value from United miles
• Leisure travelers treating themselves to a premium experience for a special trip
• United loyal customers who benefit from status recognition and upgrade possibilities

Final Rating

Based on my experience, here’s how I’d rate United’s 757-200 Business Class Newark-Los Angeles service:

• Seat Comfort: 8/10
• Cabin & Ambiance: 7/10
• Food & Beverage: 8/10
• Service: 8.5/10
• Entertainment & Connectivity: 7/10
• Value for Money: 8/10 (when booked with miles)
• Overall Experience: 8/10

Practical Tips & Takeaways

If you’re planning to book United’s PS Business Class between Newark and Los Angeles, here are some insider tips to maximize your experience:

Best Seats to Select

• Solo travelers: Window seats in rows 2 or 3 (2A, 2F, 3A, 3F)
• Couples: Center pairs in rows 2 or 3 (2D/E, 3D/E)
• Light sleepers: Avoid row 4 (near lavatories)
• Tall passengers: Rows 2 or 3 offer the most foot space when fully reclined

Booking Strategies

• Book 3-4 months in advance for best award availability
• Last-minute bookings within 1-2 weeks of departure often see higher cash prices
• Tuesday and Wednesday flights typically offer better award space
• MileagePlus miles transfer from Chase Ultimate Rewards if you need to top up your account

Maximizing Your Experience

• Lounge access: If connecting from/to international Polaris, use the superior Polaris Lounge instead of United Club
• Dining: If you prefer maximum sleep time, consider eating in the lounge and asking for “express dining” or sleep service onboard
• Entertainment: Download content to your personal device as backup options
• Wi-Fi: Purchase Wi-Fi before boarding through the United app for a small discount

As the transcontinental route competition continues to evolve, United’s 757-200 business class represents a solid, if not cutting-edge, premium experience. While newer products from competitors offer more modern touches and greater privacy, United’s consistent execution, generous award availability, and reliable lie-flat seats make it a worthy contender for your coast-to-coast journey.

FAQs

1. What type of seats are available in United’s 757-200 Business Class on the Newark–Los Angeles route?

The aircraft features 16 lie-flat seats in a 2-2 configuration, offering comfort for transcontinental flights.

2. Does United provide lounge access for Business Class passengers on this route?

Yes, Business Class passengers have access to United Club lounges at both Newark and Los Angeles airports.

3. What amenities are included in the Business Class cabin?

Passengers receive Saks Fifth Avenue bedding, a Therabody-branded amenity kit, and access to in-flight entertainment and Wi-Fi.

4. Are printed menus provided during the flight?

No, United does not offer printed menus on this route; meal options are presented verbally by the crew.

5. Is there direct aisle access for all Business Class seats?

No, only aisle seats have direct aisle access; window seats do not.

Conclusion

This review-united-757-200-business-class-newark-los-angeles-new-ps-service shows that United’s Premium Service offers real value on a domestic route. The flatbed seats, upgraded meals, and lounge access make the flight feel more like an international journey. For travelers who care about comfort, space, and priority treatment, this is a solid option.

Overall, the review-united-757-200-business-class-newark-los-angeles-new-ps-service proves that flying coast to coast can be both relaxing and stylish. It may not be perfect, but the experience is a big step up from standard domestic business class. If you’re flying this route, the PS service is worth considering for a more enjoyable trip.

Have you flown United’s PS Business Class recently? How did your experience compare to mine? I’d love to hear your thoughts in the comments below!