United Airlines resumes Houston-Edmonton route after pandemic pause

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By Sky Industry News

Dec 1, 2024

United Airlines is set to reinstate its Houston-Edmonton flights after a five-year hiatus. The Chicago-based airline, known for its extensive network and premium brand, aims to reconnect the two cities with service from Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) to Edmonton International Airport (YEG). The service was last operated in 2020 but was suspended due to the pandemic's impact on international travel.

The Edmonton International Airport announced that the flights will resume at the end of May 2025. Initially, the service will operate four times weekly on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Fridays using an Airbus A319. In June 2025, United plans to offer 4,284 seats across 34 flights for that month. By November 2025, the frequency is expected to increase to daily service with a total of 60 flights and 7,560 available seats.

Before the pandemic led to suspension in March 2020, United provided more extensive service on this route with different aircraft types including the Boeing 737-700. At that time, it offered up to 9,026 seats across 64 flights.

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This resumption is seen as beneficial due to Edmonton's role in Canada's energy sector and Houston being a key American "energy hub." This direct connection is expected to support businesses and employees in both regions. Additionally, as Houston serves as United's main gateway to Latin America, Canadian passengers will gain improved access beyond U.S. borders.

A new competitive dynamic has emerged with low-cost airline WestJet announcing direct service from Edmonton to Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD), also scheduled for May 2025. In response, United plans its own thrice-weekly service between these cities starting around the same time.

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