United Airlines is preparing for its most extensive international expansion to date, with service to eight new cities as part of its summer 2025 schedule. This ambitious plan wants to strengthen United’s position as the leading U.S. airline for international travel, with more unique destinations than any other carrier. Starting in May 2025, travelers can look forward to the following new routes.

By summer 2025, United will operate 800 daily flights to 147 international locations, including 40 routes that no other U.S. airline serves. United’s new routes will be available for booking once regulatory approvals are granted. If you want to stay on top of award availability to these new destinations, make sure to set up alerts! AwardFares will notify you via email as soon as seats become available!

Eight New Cities to Explore

United’s expansion includes service to eight exciting new cities across the globe. The latest destinations are:

Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia

Starting May 1, 2025, United will become the only U.S. airline offering service to Mongolia with seasonal nonstop flights from Tokyo Narita. Ulaanbaatar serves as the gateway to Mongolia’s untouched natural landscapes, where travelers can experience unique adventures like reindeer sleigh rides, camel racing, and dramatic scenery.

Kaohsiung, Taiwan

United will launch the only direct service between the U.S. and Kaohsiung, Taiwan, starting July 11, 2025. This bustling city is known for its vibrant street art, historical harbor, and beautiful natural landscapes. Iconic attractions include the Pier-2 Art Center, Love River, and Lotus Pond.

United Airlines and its Largest International Expansion for Summer 2025

Dakar, Senegal

United will further expand its Africa network with a new year-round nonstop flight from Washington/Dulles to Dakar, Senegal, launching May 23, 2025. Dakar, located on Africa’s west coast, is a key gateway to the continent, offering stunning beaches, lush forests, and archaeological treasures.

Nuuk, Greenland

For the first time, travelers will have direct access to Greenland from the U.S. via United’s new twice-weekly seasonal service from Newark to Nuuk, starting June 14, 2025. United will be the only carrier connecting the U.S. to Nuuk, the northernmost capital city, offering a gateway to Arctic adventures like hiking and wildlife watching under the midnight sun.

Palermo, Italy

United is expanding its Italy service with a new three-times-weekly nonstop flight between Newark and Palermo, Sicily, starting May 21, 2025. Palermo offers a rich blend of history, stunning architecture, and luxurious beaches. Highlights include the Baroque church Casa Professa and Italy’s largest opera house, Teatro Massimo.

Bilbao, Spain

Launching May 31, 2025, United will offer the only nonstop U.S. service to Bilbao, the largest city in Spain’s Basque Country. Bilbao is renowned for its architecture, culture, and cuisine, with must-see attractions like the Guggenheim Museum and famous Basque pinxtos.

Madeira Island and Faro, Portugal

United is also increasing its presence in Portugal, with new nonstop service to Madeira Island and Faro launching in summer 2025. Flights to Faro, the gateway to the Algarve’s beaches and golf resorts, will operate four times weekly starting May 16, 2025. Madeira Island, known for its dramatic cliffs and natural pools, will have three-times-weekly service starting June 7, 2025.

United Airlines and its Largest International Expansion for Summer 2025

Expanding Transatlantic Service

United will also enhance its already-dominant transatlantic network with more than 760 weekly flights to over 40 destinations in Europe, the largest in the airline’s history. New routes from Newark include nonstop flights to Nuuk, Palermo, Bilbao, Madeira Island, and Faro. Washington D.C./Dulles will also see new flights to Dakar, Senegal, as well as seasonal routes to Nice and Venice.

Travelers will also benefit from earlier seasonal start dates for flights to popular European cities such as Venice, Athens, and Barcelona. United will increase service on several routes, including:

  • Newark to Palma de Mallorca – More weekly flights to the picturesque Spanish island.
  • Newark to Dubrovnik – Daily service to this charming Croatian coastal city.
  • Newark to Athens – Expanded frequencies to one of Greece’s most iconic cities.

New Flights to Asia and the Pacific

In addition to its transatlantic growth, United is expanding its presence in Asia and the Pacific. Starting in May, United will introduce new nonstop flights from Tokyo-Narita to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia and Kaohsiung, Taiwan, both destinations that no other U.S. carrier serves. These new flights will offer seamless connections from United’s U.S. hubs through Tokyo.

United is also launching a new nonstop flight to Koror, Palau, a dream destination for scuba diving and snorkeling enthusiasts. This new route will allow easy access to Palau’s stunning marine ecosystems, connecting U.S. travelers through Tokyo-Narita.

Unique Experiences Await

With United’s new destinations, travelers can look forward to a wide array of experiences:

  • Greenland offers Arctic adventures with stunning natural landscapes under the midnight sun.
  • Palermo is perfect for history buffs and culture seekers, with its baroque churches and rich Sicilian heritage.
  • Bilbao is a must-visit for art lovers and foodies, home to the famous Guggenheim Museum and Basque cuisine.
  • Madeira Island and Faro bring the best of Portugal’s natural beauty, from cliffs and waterfalls to luxurious spas and world-class golf courses.
  • Dakar provides access to Africa’s West Coast with pristine beaches, lush forests, and historical landmarks.

Strengthening Service Across the Globe

United’s summer 2025 schedule will also include enhanced service to other key destinations. Seasonal flights to Venice from Washington Dulles will now operate daily, complementing United’s existing service from Newark. Nice, France, will also benefit from new four-times-weekly flights from Washington Dulles.

Popular routes from the U.S. to Athens, Venice, and Dubrovnik will see increased flight frequencies, allowing travelers more flexibility in planning their summer vacations. United will also resume service to Palma de Mallorca, with four weekly flights next summer.

Expanding Service to Latin America

Beyond Europe and Asia, United is also boosting its presence in Latin America. Starting April 2025, United will introduce new nonstop service from Houston to Puerto Escondido, Mexico, becoming the first U.S. airline to serve this coastal destination. In addition, United will add a new daily flight from San Francisco to San Jose, Costa Rica, making it easier for U.S. travelers to reach one of the most popular destinations in Central America.

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