Originally Posted by
kb1992
Message to GS Team about lack of flatbed service BOS-SFO in spring and summer
================================================== ============
I wanted to raise a growing concern that I—and many fellow travelers based in Boston—have regarding United's decision to suspend the BOS-SFO 757-200 flatbed service from March through October. The replacement with standard 737 aircraft significantly reduces the comfort and quality of the travel experience for premium passengers.
SFO is United’s primary gateway to Asia, with key routes to PEK, PVG, ICN, TPE, SIN, and HKG all departing from there. As someone who frequently travels to Asia and is based in BOS, the lack of a lie-flat product on such a long domestic segment is genuinely disruptive. Flying in a 737 first-class seat for over six hours is far from comfortable or competitive, especially for those of us purchasing premium fares.
While rerouting via EWR to access flatbed service to SFO is technically possible, it adds unnecessary time and complexity, not to mention an increased risk of missed connections—something no international traveler wants to worry about.
This change has made me seriously consider shifting my business to other carriers. Options such as EWR/JFK-SIN on Singapore Airlines, JFK-PEK on Air China, or BOS-HKG on Cathay Pacific are beginning to look more appealing, simply due to the consistency and quality of the premium experience.
I know I’m not alone. Several other GS members based in Boston have voiced similar concerns. It’s disappointing to feel that United is stepping back from its commitment to premium travel out of BOS during peak seasons.
I would greatly appreciate it if you could elevate this feedback to United’s management team as they evaluate route planning and fleet deployment strategy.
Thank you again for your time and support.
You undermine your own argument by mentioning SQ/Air China out of NYC as attractive alternatives, after saying routing thru EWR on UA adds time/complexity/risk. Isn’t that risk even higher by changing airlines at the connection point?
Also, you sort of answered your own question - Cathay is your only lie-flat alternative ex-BOS. UA knows this, and has better use for its lie flats outside of BOS-xxx.