Quantcast

United Airlines cuts flights amid economic concerns, focuses on international, premium travelers

A No-Frills Airline Is Getting Into the Premium Game
TAKING OFF: Major airline introduces new inflight service rules with less time to order your drinks
2 Delta flight attendants fail breathalyzer test before flight to JFK
EasyJet reveals plans for new flights from regional UK airport next summer
Airlines not switching quickly enough to green jet fuel, study says
US Senate panel criticizes rising airline seat fees, will call execs to testify
Spirit’s Demise Is a Lesson in ‘Airline-o-nomics’
Inside BA’s new first-class suites: £800 an hour for most private seat
Focus: US airline flight crews confident and angry as unions seek richer contracts
Hawaiian Airlines Eliminates Widebody Route Amid Alaska Airlines Merger
US budget airlines are struggling. Will pursuing premium passengers solve their problems?
Delta CEO says the Trump administration will reverse government ‘overreach’ seen under Biden
Spirit Airlines files for bankruptcy: How will it affect your travel plans?
British Airways yet to identify cause of latest IT meltdown
Delta Airlines Will Start Serving Shake Shack Cheeseburgers Next Month
United Sees Nearly 30% Surge in Travel to European Christmas Markets
Budget airline Israir to launch flights between Israel and NY, ending wartime monopoly by flagship carrier El Al
Asia's airlines blame supply chain woes for disrupted operations
Qantas and Qatar Airways: Planned partnership in the Australian aviation industry under the microscope
Spirit Airlines delays release of Q3 financial results as debt restructuring talks heat up
Delta investigating after plane’s nose mysteriously suffered damage
What Elon Musk's Starlink means for airlines
CAP OFF Major twist in Dublin Airport passenger cap row as High Court pauses decision in victory for airlines next summer season
Riyadh Air plans new jet order decision early next year
Calls for a blanket ban on politicians receiving free flight upgrades
Wizz Air Loses Challenge Against EU-Approved Romanian Aid for TAROM
Southwest, Other Airlines Plan a Shake-Up. Why They Need More to Boost Their Stocks.
One of Boeing's biggest customers leveled fresh criticism over ongoing 737 Max delivery delays
Low-Cost Airlines Innovate with Subscription Models
LA Considers $25 And $30 Minimum Wages For Hotel And Airport Workers
United Airlines cuts flights amid economic concerns, focuses on international, premium travelers
Research
Webp 8862bxqdet14yg52yl0ojhsr7qer
Ashley Kosciolek Senior cruise writer | The Points Guy

United Airlines has announced adjustments to its flight schedule, citing a softening demand and economic concerns. The airline is cutting early-morning and late-night flights, especially those before 7 a.m. and after 8 p.m., largely impacting flights between the U.S. and Canada and routes previously supported by government travel.

The Chicago-based carrier reported a $387 million profit for the first quarter of 2025, a significant improvement over the previous year. The first quarter typically poses challenges for airlines, often resulting in losses.

Current global economic tensions, including President Donald Trump's trade war, have cooled demand, particularly affecting travel from Canada and Europe. United's Chief Financial Officer Michael Leskinen expressed apprehension on the current economic trajectory, suggesting potential recession scenarios.

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.

Despite downturns in economic conditions, United noted some stability in its bookings, though a decrease in international travel interest from Europe and Canada was observed. Chief Commercial Officer Andrew Nocella shared that while booking levels dropped, they have shown stability over the past six weeks.

The airline remains optimistic about its premium offerings, noting consistent demand for high-end travel experiences and plans to launch services to new international destinations. This perspective contrasts with sentiments from Frontier Airlines CEO Barry Biffle, who suggested that economic challenges might favor budget airlines like his.

Consumer spending on United's cobranded credit cards increased by 9% in the first quarter, indicating sustained customer engagement. However, further schedule adjustments may occur if economic conditions worsen.

In addition to flight schedule changes, United moved forward with the retirement of 21 older aircraft and is preparing to introduce new jets as part of its fleet expansion plan. The airline is also launching its Starlink-powered Wi-Fi service next month for MileagePlus members.

United secured control over six additional gates at Chicago O'Hare, as American Airlines increased its presence, with American's seat offerings set to rise by 22% this summer.

The airline remains focused on maintaining its large-scale operations at O'Hare, highlighting its strength in comparison to its competitors.

Organizations Included in this History
More News

London Heathrow, recognized as Europe's busiest airport, will soon experience an increase in its flight offerings by Oman Air.

Sep 2, 2025

Minneapolis–St. Paul International Airport will commence safety and airfield improvement projects on Runway 12R-30L in two distinct phases throughout 2025.

Aug 22, 2025

Delta Air Lines is adjusting its service between Atlanta and Anchorage, extending flights beyond the summer travel season to a year-round offering.

May 15, 2025

In December 2022, Southwest Airlines faced a major crisis as operational challenges led to the cancellation of 16,900 flights, affecting nearly two million passengers during a peak travel period.

Apr 19, 2025

Harrison Ford, an acclaimed actor known for roles such as Han Solo in "Star Wars" and Indiana Jones, is also a noted aviation enthusiast.

Apr 19, 2025

Iberia Airlines has confirmed a notable shift in its flight schedule connecting Madrid and Dallas/Fort Worth, introducing its first overnight service from Europe to the US.

Apr 19, 2025