The Transatlantic Throwdown: American Vs. Delta Vs. United in Business

Have you ever wondered who provides the best business class service, and is it really worth it?

Well, Jeb Brooks of GreenerGrass.com embarked on an ambitious journey across the Atlantic three times to evaluate and compare the business class experiences on three of America’s top legacy carriers—American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines.

Jeb and his partner Suzanne used a data-driven, impartial approach to assess each airline’s business class product, focusing on lounges, seats, food, entertainment, and overall comfort.

Here's how the transatlantic showdown unfolded:

The Plan: Three Crossings, Three Carriers

The trip began with American Airlines from JFK to London, followed by a return to the U.S. aboard United Airlines from London Heathrow to Newark. The final leg was a Delta Air Lines flight from Atlanta to London Heathrow.

Each flight was booked in business class, and seat selections were kept consistent to allow for a fair comparison.

American Airlines: Flagship Business from JFK to London

Lounge Experience: Greenwich Lounge at JFK

Passengers flying American’s Flagship Business from JFK are granted access to the Greenwich Lounge, co-hosted with British Airways. The lounge featured expansive views, a buffet, and made-to-order menu items.

Compared to Admirals Clubs in smaller hubs, the Greenwich Lounge was a noticeable upgrade—though the American lounge system can be inconsistent depending on departure airport.

Onboard Experience

American’s Boeing 777-300ER offered a 1-2-1 seat configuration. Each business class passenger received Casper bedding, slippers, Bang & Olufsen headphones, an amenity kit, and a large (if somewhat outdated) seatback screen.

Menus were placed at every seat, with a pre-order option available.

For dinner, Jeb selected a macadamia-crusted sea bass with citrus cream sauce, which was flavorful and surprisingly light.

Suzanne opted for roasted chicken with garlic mashed potatoes. Dessert included options like raspberry swirl cheesecake and a traditional ice cream sundae.

Sleep quality was strong, with a comfortable lie-flat bed and decent space. Breakfast, though missed by Jeb due to deep sleep, featured Greek yogurt with salted caramel granola and a standout biscuit, according to Suzanne.

United Airlines: Polaris from London to Newark

Lounge Experience: United Club at Heathrow and Polaris Lounges in the U.S.

At Heathrow, United's club offered a long bar, decent buffet, and panoramic ramp views.

However, United’s true premium lounge experience lies stateside in its Polaris Lounges—exclusive spaces at six of its seven U.S. hubs (excluding Denver).

These lounges deliver à la carte dining, expansive seating, and a quieter, more luxurious atmosphere.

Onboard Experience

Aboard a Boeing 767-300, United’s Polaris cabin followed the same 1-1-1 seat configuration. Odd-numbered window seats offered more privacy. Passengers received two blankets, two pillows, slippers, an amenity kit, and water.

Although catering delays prevented predeparture beverages, the onboard experience was generally smooth. Jeb chose beef tenderloin and Suzanne went with roast chicken.

While the appetizers were well-received—especially the goat cheese starter—the main courses were a mixed bag: Jeb’s beef was overcooked, and the accompanying fries with his Wellington burger during breakfast were soggy. Suzanne enjoyed her veggie chili, though its presentation lacked polish.

The seat was firm yet comfortable, with decent privacy and good cushioning. In-flight entertainment included 343 movies and onboard Wi-Fi for $37.

Delta Air Lines: Delta One from Atlanta to London

Lounge Experience: Sky Club at ATL

Unlike United and American, Delta currently only offers a single premium Delta One Lounge (at JFK).

From Atlanta, Delta One passengers use the Sky Club, which—though well-appointed and featuring regional food and an outdoor terrace—is often crowded and lacks the exclusivity of Polaris or Flagship lounges.

Onboard Experience

Delta’s 767-400 featured a 1-2-1 configuration. Odd-numbered window seats offered better privacy. Amenities included bedding, a pillow, slippers, water, headphones, and an amenity kit.

Notably, overhead bins were partially filled with airline supplies, limiting passenger space.

Despite a few onboarding hiccups, service began promptly. Pre-departure drinks were served, though premium options were only available after takeoff.

The entertainment system offered 504 movies, though only 19 were new releases. Wi-Fi was a standout at just $5—cheaper and faster than the other carriers.

Jeb ordered lamb meatballs and Suzanne selected roasted chicken. The meals were satisfying, and Jeb especially appreciated the tomato bisque and burrata starter.

Both passengers slept well, with the seat offering solid comfort. Breakfast service was light but efficient.

Final Verdict: Who Wins the Transatlantic Throwdown?

Each airline brought strengths and weaknesses to the table:

• American Airlines impressed with excellent food and sleep quality, though its lounge system and in-flight tech showed inconsistencies.
• United Airlines stood out for its consistent Polaris seating and exceptional lounge access within the U.S., but catering quality varied.
• Delta Air Lines offered superior Wi-Fi, solid sleep comfort, and promising new premium lounges on the horizon, but still lagged in current lounge offerings.

Next time you cross the Atlantic, you’ll know which U.S. carrier might be your best bet.