This was the first leg of my return journey to Boston, on a CRJ550—the premium, lower-capacity version of the CRJ700.
Boarding
I left the lounge about ten minutes before the rescheduled boarding time and arrived at the gate shortly afterward.
Boarding began a bit late with pre-boarding for eligible groups, followed by Group 1, which included me.
Cabin and welcome
The welcome was very warm, and I settled into the Domestic First cabin, configured in a 1-2 layout with comfortable recliners. I chose a solo seat in row 2, 02A.
The flight attendant took drink orders on the ground to improve efficiency after takeoff.
Service and catering
Service began once we reached 10,000 feet, though the seatbelt sign remained on throughout the flight.
My latte was served promptly, and a selection of premium snacks was offered—a cheese plate and a snack basket. It was satisfying and far more substantial compared to what American or Delta would offer.
Arrival and disembarkation
We arrived at the gate 35 minutes behind schedule and then waited on the tarmac due to an occupied gate—a frustrating delay on top of the existing one. Typical United!
Bottom line
An excellent in-flight service, but the delay was intolerable once again.
Itinerary
As a reminder, here is the itinerary followed:
| # | Type | Post |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Diary | Business Trip in Washington, DC |
| 2 | Lounge | United Club, Boston Logan |
| 3 | Flight | United Domestic First, Boston Logan – Newark International, Boeing 737 MAX 9 |
| 4 | Lounge | United Club, Newark International Gate C74 |
| 5 | Flight | United Domestic First, Newark International – Washington Reagan, Bombardier CRJ550 |
| 6 | Hotel | The Ritz Carlton, Georgetown, Washington DC |
| 7 | Restaurant | Filomena, Georgetown, Washington DC |
| 8 | Restaurant | Brasserie Liberté, Georgetown, Washington DC |
| 9 | Lounge | American Express Centurion Lounge, Washington Reagan |
| 10 | Flight | United Domestic First, Washington Reagan – Newark International, Bombardier CRJ550 |
| 11 | Lounge | United Club, Newark International Gates A |
| 12 | Flight | United Domestic First, Newark International – Boston Logan, Boeing 737 MAX 8 |













