United Airlines has announced an ambitious expansion of its international routes, introducing new flights to Beijing, Rome, and Panama City, enhancing its global network. This development is part of United's strategy to bolster its market presence and offer more travel options amidst a recovering international travel sector. Starting in May 2025, United will launch a new route from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK), operating three times a week.
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This service will utilize Boeing 787-9 aircraft, offering passengers 48 business class, 21 premium economy, and 188 economy seats. The introduction of this route is particularly significant as it aims to capitalize on the growing demand for travel between the U.S. and China, despite ongoing geopolitical tensions affecting air travel capacities between the two nations. In conjunction with the Beijing service, United will also commence direct flights from Denver International Airport (DEN) to Rome's Fiumicino Airport (FCO) from May 1, 2025. This will mark Denver's first-ever direct connection to Rome, further expanding United's European network from its Rocky Mountain hub. The route to Rome, which has been one of the largest unserved international markets from Denver, will operate daily, providing passengers with a seamless journey to one of Italy's cultural capitals.
Additionally, United is set to launch its first-ever service from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Panama City's Tocumen International Airport (PTY) on May 22, 2025. This daily year-round flight will be operated using a 737 aircraft, making United the only U.S. carrier to directly connect SFO with Panama City. This route not only opens up new opportunities for travel to Central America but also strengthens United's connectivity through Panama, which serves as a key hub for further travel into South America via partner airline, Copa Airlines.
These new routes are part of United's broader international expansion, which includes previous announcements of new services to other destinations around the globe. The airline's proactive approach in adding these routes reflects confidence in the resurgence of international travel demand and its commitment to providing passengers with more direct and convenient travel options. By expanding its network to include Beijing, Rome, and Panama City, United Airlines is not only responding to customer demand but also strategically positioning itself to leverage the economic and cultural ties between these regions and the United States. This move is anticipated to foster increased tourism, business, and cultural exchange, underlining United's role as a key player in global aviation.