US To Senegal And Greenland As United Airlines Expands International Network With New Nonstop Flights – Travel And Tour World

United Airlines launches new nonstop flights from the US to Senegal and Greenland, expanding its international network to offer travelers unique destinations.

United Airlines is embarking on its most ambitious international expansion to date, adding thrilling new destinations from the United States. Among these destinations are the culturally rich nation of Senegal and the awe-inspiring landscapes of Greenland. With tickets already available, these routes position United as the US airline with the most extensive network in Africa, making it an exciting time for travelers eager to explore beyond traditional routes.

United Airlines Expands Its African Network with New Routes

United’s latest flight from Newark (EWR) to Marrakesh Menara Airport (RAK) launched this week, marking a renewed focus on Africa. Additionally, United has now introduced a highly anticipated route from Washington DC’s Dulles Airport (IAD) to Dakar (DSS), Senegal’s bustling capital, with tickets available online for departures starting on May 23, 2025. This expansion means United will soon serve more African destinations than any other US airline, establishing a significant milestone in its global outreach.

Dakar’s Blaise Diagne International Airport is ideally situated along Africa’s western coast, offering a gateway to the pristine beaches, lush forests, and archaeological heritage sites that characterize Senegal. The city’s central location also enhances connectivity within West Africa, making it easier for travelers to explore the broader region. United’s service from Washington DC to Dakar will operate three times weekly year-round, facilitated by United’s Boeing 767-300 aircraft, configured with 30 Polaris business suites, 24 Premium Plus seats, and 149 economy seats, including 32 Economy Plus seats.

Ticket Prices and Mileage Options

Tickets for the Washington-Dakar route start at $970 for a one-way fare or approximately $1,100 for a round-trip journey. MileagePlus members have the option to redeem miles, with economy seats priced at around 45,000 miles one-way plus approximately $150 in taxes and fees. United’s competitive pricing and redemption options offer flexibility for both budget-conscious and luxury travelers alike.

United’s Expansive Presence in Africa

The introduction of the new route to Senegal reinforces United’s position as a leading US carrier in Africa. In addition to this new Dakar route, United also operates flights to Cape Town and Johannesburg in South Africa, Accra in Ghana, and Lagos in Nigeria. The new Washington-Dakar service is not the airline’s only recent addition. Seasonal flights from Washington Dulles to Venice, Italy, and Nice, France, are also set to launch in May, broadening United’s European presence.

A New Gateway to the Arctic: United’s Greenland Adventure

In an exciting development for adventure travelers, United Airlines is also launching a new route to Nuuk, Greenland. Beginning on June 14, 2025, United will provide seasonal, twice-weekly flights to Greenland’s capital. These flights are especially significant as Nuuk’s new international airport is set to open, making United the first airline to offer direct flights between the United States and Greenland. The four-hour flight will depart from Newark, providing American travelers with convenient access to the Arctic’s remote beauty.

United’s Greenland service will be operated with a Boeing 737 MAX 8, offering a configuration that includes 150 seats in economy and 16 in premium economy. The flights are expected to be popular among those seeking unique Arctic experiences, from hiking Greenland’s rugged terrain to witnessing its famed glaciers and Northern Lights.

Greenland’s Growing International Appeal

As Greenland’s tourism industry grows, international airlines are taking note. Icelandair, already a key player in Arctic travel, will also offer connections to Nuuk and recently announced a codeshare partnership with Air Greenland. This new agreement is expected to boost access to Greenland and improve connectivity for travelers using Iceland’s stopover program. Scandinavian Air Systems (SAS) has likewise announced a return to Greenland after a two-decade hiatus, underscoring the increasing appeal of this northern destination.

Copenhagen as SAS’s Key Hub in the SkyTeam Alliance

The reintroduction of SAS’s flights to Greenland aligns with the airline’s post-restructuring strategy to focus on Copenhagen Airport (CPH) as a central hub. Since joining the SkyTeam Alliance, SAS has expanded its routes, with nearly 20 new destinations from Copenhagen, including direct flights to Seattle-Tacoma (SEA) and Atlanta in the United States. The new Seattle route complements SAS’s existing connections to the United States, bringing greater access to Greenland and enhancing options for North American travelers.

A Uniquely Positioned Airline in Global Aviation

United’s recent announcements highlight its growing influence in global travel, driven by expanding international routes and an impressive African footprint. This evolution aligns with trends among major airlines competing to diversify their long-haul routes. By investing in new destinations like Dakar and Nuuk, United is appealing to travelers seeking unique experiences while reinforcing its position as a leader in connecting diverse regions.

Beyond these specific routes, United’s commitment to route innovation reflects a broader focus on catering to travelers interested in authentic experiences, whether in the remote Arctic landscapes of Greenland or the vibrant culture of West Africa. The addition of Dakar and Nuuk speaks to United’s adaptability and forward-thinking approach, helping to create new travel opportunities as demand for exotic locations rises.

Booking Flights to Senegal and Greenland with United Airlines

For those planning their travel in advance, United’s website now features bookable flights to both Senegal and Greenland. In particular, the airline’s MileagePlus loyalty program provides added value, allowing travelers to redeem miles for these routes. For MileagePlus members, a one-way trip from Washington DC to Dakar is available for approximately 45,000 miles, plus a nominal fee for taxes, offering competitive redemption options for loyalty program enthusiasts.

For the Greenland route, the seasonal nature of the flights provides flexibility for summer travel planning. Travelers are encouraged to book early, as demand for these flights is anticipated to be high, given the rising interest in Arctic tourism and limited direct travel options between the US and Greenland.

A Future of Endless Possibilities with United Airlines

United Airlines’ commitment to expanding its global network showcases its ambition to connect the world’s most captivating destinations. This year’s additions of Senegal and Greenland exemplify United’s dedication to offering travelers unparalleled access to remote and culturally rich regions. As United Airlines forges new paths, travelers gain the chance to explore uncharted territories, whether by venturing into the vibrant streets of Dakar or the icy fjords of Greenland.

With the groundwork laid for these exciting routes, United Airlines stands poised to capture the hearts of wanderlust travelers. As one of the few carriers prioritizing service to such unique destinations, United is well-equipped to cater to the growing demand for far-reaching travel experiences.