United Airlines Launches Largest International Expansion with Eight New Destinations

United Airlines has announced the largest international expansion in its history, adding eight new cities to its global network starting in May 2025. The airline will introduce five new routes from its Newark/New York hub and three from Washington D.C./Dulles, providing U.S. travelers with greater access to exciting global destinations, including Greenland, Mongolia, and Senegal.

New Routes from Newark/New York

Starting in May 2025, United will launch five new nonstop routes from Newark to destinations that no other U.S. airline currently serves:

• Nuuk, Greenland: Twice-weekly seasonal service to Greenland's capital, beginning June 14. This new route will offer direct access to arctic adventures and stunning wildlife.

• Palermo, Italy: United will launch its first-ever flight to Sicily's vibrant capital starting May 21. The three-times weekly service offers a gateway to rich history and stunning architecture.

• Bilbao, Spain: Travelers will gain direct access to the Basque Country’s cultural hub with new service launching May 31, providing a unique city experience and coastal escapes.

• Madeira Island and Faro, Portugal: United expands its Portuguese network with seasonal service to these two scenic destinations. Faro flights begin May 16, while Madeira Island launches on June 7.

Washington D.C./Dulles Adds Three New Routes

United is also expanding from its Washington D.C./Dulles hub with three new routes:

• Dakar, Senegal: United’s first-ever nonstop flight to Dakar begins May 23, offering year-round service to this vibrant West African city.

• Venice, Italy: Seasonal service between Washington/Dulles and Venice begins May 22, complementing United's existing Newark to Venice route.

• Nice, France: Starting May 24, United will offer four-times weekly service to Nice, giving travelers more options to explore the French Riviera.

Transpacific and Other Global Expansions

United is also expanding its presence in Asia with the launch of new direct flights from Tokyo-Narita to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, and Kaohsiung, Taiwan. Additionally, the airline is adding year-round service from Tokyo to Koror, Palau, a pristine marine destination known for its coral reefs and marine biodiversity.

More Flights to Popular Destinations

In addition to new routes, United will expand its service to several popular international destinations:

• Athens, Greece: Service resumes earlier, starting on March 6.
• Venice, Italy: Flights from Newark will resume on March 29.
• Palma de Mallorca, Spain: United will increase service from Newark to four weekly flights next summer.

Growing U.S. to Mexico and Central America Network

United continues to expand its reach in Latin America, adding a new nonstop flight from Houston to Puerto Escondido, Mexico, starting April 5. The airline is also introducing a daily flight from San Francisco to San Jose, Costa Rica, further cementing its position as the largest U.S. carrier to Costa Rica and Central America.

Enhancing Customer Flexibility and Choice

With over 760 weekly transatlantic flights planned for summer 2025, United is strengthening its position as the U.S. airline with the most international flights. “No other airline gives customers nonstop access to as many unique international destinations and experiences from the U.S. as United,” said Patrick Quayle, United’s Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances.

For more information and to book flights, visit United.com or use the United app. All new routes are subject to government approval.