United adds new international route while cutting domestic city

Research

Eric Rosen Director of travel content | The Points Guy

By Sky Industry News

Dec 21, 2024

United Airlines has announced two significant changes to its flight network. The airline will introduce a new international route from Antonio B. Won Pat International Airport in Guam to Taiwan Taoyuan International Airport, starting April 2. This 1,729-mile route will be serviced twice weekly using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft. Flights are scheduled to depart Guam at 7 a.m., arriving in Taipei at 9:25 a.m., with the return flight leaving Taipei at 10:30 a.m. and landing back in Guam at 4:20 p.m.

The new service marks the resumption of a route previously operated by Continental Micronesia until October 2005, prior to its merger with United. Currently, China Airlines is the sole operator on this route, presenting United with an opportunity to expand its market presence in the region.

Sam Shinohara, United's managing director of airport operations for the Asia-Pacific region, commented on the launch: "The launch of the new Taipei-Guam service underscores United's commitment to Guam and the region by opening new routes that offer more ways for travelers to enjoy Guam and the Micronesia region."

Get the Newsletter

Sign-up to receive weekly round up of news from Sky Industry News

By submitting, you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Service. By providing your phone number you are opting in and consenting to receive recurring SMS/MMS messages, including automated texts, to that number from our short code. Msg & data rates may apply. Reply HELP for help, STOP to end. SMS opt-in will not be sold, rented, or shared.

In contrast to this expansion in Asia-Pacific, United is ceasing operations in Lewiston, Idaho, effective February 1. The airline had been flying from Denver to Lewiston-Nez Perce County Regional Airport since October 2021 but will discontinue this service due to funding issues after subsidies expired.

Lewiston airport director Mike Isaacs expressed gratitude towards United and local government efforts during challenging economic times: "We thank United Airlines, Nez Perce County, and the City of Lewiston for trying this route during challenging economic times in the air transportation industry."

A spokesperson for United confirmed continued service within Idaho through other airports while assisting affected customers with alternative travel arrangements.

Since April 2020, United has cut services from 41 U.S. cities citing pilot shortages and low demand as primary reasons for these reductions.

Organizations Included in this History

The Points Guy

More News

Air New Zealand creates festive experience for passengers missing Christmas

Passengers on Air New Zealand's flight NZ7 from San Francisco to Auckland, who were set to miss Christmas Day due to crossing the international date line, experienced a unique celebration at 30,000 feet.

Dec 26, 2024

Xiamen Airlines shares green initiatives at COP16 conference

The sixteenth session of the Conference of the Parties (COP16) of the United Nations Convention to Combat Desertification took place in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia on December 2, 2024.

Dec 25, 2024

Points pros share common mistakes in managing rewards programs

At The Points Guy (TPG), the focus is on optimizing points and miles to save money on travel.

Dec 25, 2024

Simple Flying reflects on 2024 highlights and anticipates future developments

As the year comes to an end, Simple Flying reflects on 2024's developments.

Dec 25, 2024

Hawaiian Airlines faces criticism over employee's dismissal due to Samoan tattoo

Tracy Sialega-Fili, a Samoan-American former employee of Hawaiian Airlines, is seeking greater cultural understanding after her termination due to a traditional Samoan tattoo.

Dec 25, 2024