United Airlines expands long-haul flights with new San Francisco to Adelaide route

United's five longest nonstop flights currently are:

1. **Houston Intercontinental to Sydney:** Still the longest route at 7,470 nautical miles, this service began in 2018 and uses Boeing 787-9 aircraft. As of the last evaluation, only 72% of seats were filled in 2024.

2. **San Francisco to Singapore:** Covering 7,339 nautical miles, this route, established in 2016, is United's sole Asian entry in the longest flights list. It offers a premium travel experience with high average fares.

3. **San Francisco to Adelaide:** Launched as a new route, it measures 7,013 nautical miles and represents a significant expansion for United.

4. **Newark to Johannesburg:** At 6,942 nautical miles, launched in June 2021, this route is partly motivated by the cessation of South African Airways' flights from New York JFK.

5. **Washington Dulles to Cape Town:** At 6,887 nautical miles, this route began in November 2022 and operates thrice weekly.

United Airlines aims to attract a mix of point-to-point and transfer passengers. The Adelaide route, although newly announced, is expected to exceed its current 10,000 round-trip passengers due to promotional activities and the demand for North American connections.

"US Department of Transportation data indicates United carried 69,000 round-trip passengers last year and filled 80% of available seats," the airline noted regarding its Washington Dulles to Cape Town service.

United's aggressive expansion strategy, particularly in long-haul flights, underscores its intent to remain a leader in international air travel.