From Heathrow to Times Square: Flying to New York with United Airlines

A few lucky members of the Brightsun Travel team recently went on an unforgettable familiarisation trip to New York with United Airlines.

From seamless check-in and relaxing lounge experiences to comfortable, spacious flights, United showcased why it’s one of the leading airlines for transatlantic travel.

Check-In at Heathrow

Our journey began at London Heathrow’s Terminal 2 – The Queen’s Terminal, home to United Airlines. Bright, modern, and spacious, it provided the perfect start to our trip!

Check-in was effortless thanks to the convenient self-service kiosks, speedy bag-drop desks, and friendly airport staff who were on hand to assist with any questions about baggage and boarding. United also offers online and app check-in 24 hours before departure - a real time-saver for international travellers. 

For long-haul flights, arriving around three hours before departure gives plenty of time for security checks, duty-free browsing, and a relaxing pre-flight experience.

The United Club

Located in Terminal 2B, just a short 10-minute walk from security, the United Club is perfectly positioned, since all United flights depart from this area.

Stepping inside, we were greeted by stunning floor-to-ceiling windows, stylish blue accents, and natural wood décor. The modern, tranquil space features Heathrow’s longest bar - the perfect spot for a pre-flight drink with runway views.

The self-service dining area offers an impressive selection - from a cooked breakfast (bagels, scrambled eggs, sausages, beans, and hash browns) to lighter options such as pastries, yoghurt, and fruit - the blueberry muffins were a highlight for some of our team!

We grabbed a spot in the comfortable swivel seats, ideal for enjoying a pre-flight coffee, though there’s also plenty of seating near the breakfast buffet.

Additional amenities include:

•    A 25-seat full-service bar and two buffet areas
•    Two TV lounge areas and nine private phone booths
•    Eight spacious shower suites with complimentary toiletries, valet service, and garment steaming

Access is available to United Polaris business class, United Club members, Star Alliance Gold customers who are holding boarding passes for same-day travel. Heathrow’s United Club is part of United’s $50 million global investment in lounges worldwide – and the quality is clear to see.

The United App

A standout feature of the United experience is the United app  – an essential travel companion. Fast, intuitive, and easy to use, it allows passengers to check in, select seats, track baggage, and receive real-time flight updates - the perfect tool for a stress-free journey.

The Flight

For this trip, we flew in United’s Economy Plus cabin, which offers extra legroom and seats at the front of the economy section.

Service began with a drink round offering a wide selection of beers, wines, spirits, and soft drinks. The in-flight meal was fresh and tasty - pasta with salad, a bread roll, and indulgent chocolate truffles, followed later by a warm pizza twist before landing.

United Wi-Fi allows us to connect to free inflight text messaging service so we could stay connected while in the air. With soft pillows and blankets, and large 12–13" entertainment screens helped make the seven-hour flight comfortable and enjoyable. Great service, quality food, and comfortable seating ensured we arrived in Newark refreshed and ready to explore.

New York 

After arriving at Newark Airport and clearing customs, we hopped into a taxi to Manhattan - a journey that can take anywhere from 30 to 90 minutes, depending on traffic.

Our base for the trip was the Hilton New York Times Square, located at 133–145 West 44th Street in Midtown Manhattan. Its unbeatable location puts you just steps away from Times Square, Broadway theatres, Bryant Park, and Fifth Avenue.

The rooms were spacious, spotless, and surprisingly peaceful - a calm retreat from the city’s non-stop energy. With comfortable beds, modern amenities, and skyline views, it was the perfect place to unwind after a day of sightseeing. Stepping out each evening into the neon glow of Times Square felt magical — a true New York moment.

Newark Liberty International Airport 

Before our return flight, we relaxed at one of the newest United Club locations at Newark Airport in Terminal A, which seats around 350 guests.

The lounge’s design was elegant and comfortable, featuring granite counters, wood-panelled walls, and a striking bar area. Guests can enjoy a full-service bar, buffet dining, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of comfortable seating - ideal for unwinding before a long flight.

Newark Liberty International Airport features multiple United lounges, including the exclusive Polaris Lounge in Terminal C for long-haul international business class passengers, and additional United Clubs in Terminals A and C.

The Return Journey

The flight home was around an hour shorter and began with a meal service before the lights dimmed for the evening. As morning approached, we were gently woken with a pastry and a coffee - and before we knew it, we were back in London!

This trip highlighted United Airlines’ commitment to comfort, efficiency, and exceptional service. From the smooth check-in and stylish United Club lounges to the enjoyable inflight experience, every moment was seamless. New York left its mark on us, and we can’t wait to return.