United Launches Historic Expansion with Eight New International Routes – Business Traveler USA

The summer of 2025 will mark an unprecedented expansion for United Airlines as the carrier prepares to launch service to eight new international cities across three continents.

With destinations ranging from Mongolia’s untamed landscapes to the historic streets of Italy and the sunny shores of Portugal, United is on its way to launch its largest — and most surprising — international schedule to date.

The world’s biggest airline is getting even bigger with the largest international expansion in our history.

United’s CEO, Scott Kirby, shared on his Instagram, “I’ve been a part of a lot of new route announcements in my career, but this is without question the coolest set of new routes we’ve ever announced,” he said. “As a long-time network planner, the team stumped me by telling me the airport codes for some of the new cities… and I couldn’t guess the city.”

“These new destinations are another example of why our customers love United and our loyalty program,” Kirby added.

New Cities, New Frontiers

United’s summer schedule will add five new nonstop routes from Newark (EWR) to destinations no other U.S. airline currently serves. Among the most exciting are Nuuk, Greenland—a gateway to Arctic adventure—and Palermo, Italy, home to Sicily’s rich history and vibrant culture.

Interestingly, Sicily is getting plenty of attention from airlines in the United States. In addition to Delta’s announcement of nonstop flights from New York JFK to Catania, the island’s second-largest city, for next summer, United’s decision to add Palermo to its routes has significantly increased traffic. As a result, Italy has been the top summer destination for North Americans for three consecutive years.

Other unexpected new stops include Bilbao, Spain, famous for the Guggenheim Museum and its Basque heritage, followed by Madeira and Faro in Portugal, both known for their stunning beaches, golf resorts and as the hometown of soccer star Cristiano Ronaldo.

Photo: Bilbao, Spain. Courtesy of Yves Alarie on Unsplash

Patrick Quayle, United’s Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances, is confident that this strategic expansion will provide travelers unparalleled access to some of the world’s most unique destinations.

“No other airline gives customers nonstop access to as many unique international destinations and experiences from the U.S. as United,” said Quayle. “Our network provides the most choice and variety for our customers, whether they are looking for a relaxing seaside getaway, once-in-a-lifetime adventure travel, or to explore some of the most vibrant urban escapes across the globe.”

Washington D.C. Gets in on the Action

United is also making moves from its Washington-Dulles (IAD) hub, with three new nonstop routes launching next summer.

For the first time ever, the airline will offer a year-round flight to Dakar, Senegal, strengthening its position as the leading U.S. airline flying to Africa. Dakar, known for its pristine beaches and rich history, offers an entry point to the growing tourism scene in West Africa.

Photo: Dakar, Senegal. Courtesy of Eyelit Studio / Unsplash

From Dulles, United will introduce nonstop service to two major European destinations: Nice Côte d’Azur Airport (NCE) – a gateway to the French Riviera, launching on May 24, and Venice Marco Polo Airport (VCE) – connecting Washington D.C. with one of Italy’s most iconic cities starting May 22.

United is also expanding service to Central America and Mexico, with flights from Houston (IAH) to Puerto Escondido International Airport (PXM) beginning April 5 and from San Francisco (SFO) to San Jose, Costa Rica (SJO) starting May 22.

This expansion and the relaunch of several popular routes to Europe will solidify United’s position as the U.S. carrier with the most transatlantic flights. By next summer, the airline will operate more than 760 weekly flights to over 40 destinations across the Atlantic.

Expanding Horizons in Asia

United’s ambitious summer network stretched beyond Europe and Africa. In Asia, the airline is adding three unique cities to its roster: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; Kaohsiung, Taiwan; and Koror, Palau.

Graphic: Courtesy of greatcirclemap.com / Markus Englund

These flights, departing from Tokyo-Narita (NRT), will introduce travelers to destinations no other U.S. airline has ever served. “Adding destinations such as Ulaanbaatar in Mongolia, Kaohsiung in Taiwan, Nuuk in Greenland, and Bilbao—this is truly a historic and unique expansion by United,” says Ishrion Aviation, a website specializing in airline routes and destinations.

The seasonal service to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, launching on May 1, 2025, is expected to be a game-changer for adventure travelers. Mongolia, known for its vast, untouched landscapes and traditional nomadic culture, has drawn in visitors with reindeer sleigh rides, camel racing, and stunning desert scenery.

Photo: Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia. Courtesy of Belgutei / Unsplash

Meanwhile, Kaohsiung, Taiwan’s second-largest city, will debut on July 11, 2025. With its modern architecture, vibrant art scene, and natural beauty, Kaohsiung offers a fresh perspective on Taiwan’s cultural offerings.

United will also add a new nonstop flight to Palau, providing travelers access to this island nation’s pristine waters and unparalleled diving experiences.

Photo: United Airlines, Boeing 737-800. Courtesy of Denver International Airport.

The addition of these surprising routes from Narita builds on previous hints of United’s expansion plans in Asia. Back in April, industry expert Brian Sumers broke the news that United was planning to increase its operations of Boeing 737s from Narita, beginning with a new flight to Cebu, Philippines, in October.

Sumers had noted that more routes were likely in the pipeline. Reflecting on this, United’s Chief Commercial Officer, Andrew Nocella, told Sumers, “But we have these 737s and a slot portfolio at Narita, and all the feed from the United States on widebody jets, and it created a unique opportunity. This seemed like something we would like to try, and the advanced bookings [for Cebu] indicate that it’s going to be very successful.”

A Glimpse of the Future

United’s new routes are just the latest chapter in its ongoing transformation. The airline’s “Good Leads The Way“ campaign highlights its commitment to giving customers the most flexibility and options for international travel.

With 800 daily flights to 147 international destinations planned for next summer—including 40 routes that no other U.S. airline serves—United is positioning itself as the leader in global connectivity.