Alerts Sign-up
United Airlines is set to resume service at McClellan-Palomar Airport (CLD) in Carlsbad, California, after an 11-year absence. The new service, scheduled to begin in March 2026, will offer twice-daily flights to United’s hubs in Denver (DEN) and San Francisco (SFO) through its United Express regional brand. The flights will use Embraer E175 aircraft, which are intended to provide connections for travelers heading to other destinations across the country.
The return of United Airlines marks the second major carrier to reintroduce service at CLD, following American Eagle’s resumption of flights to Phoenix Sky Harbor (PHX) in 2024. Since United last operated from Carlsbad in 2015, the airport has undergone significant upgrades, including a new terminal that opened in 2009, funded primarily by American Airlines, as reported by the San Diego Tribune.
CLD also hosts restoration operations for the San Diego Aerospace Museum and serves as a base for the San Diego County Sheriff’s aviation law enforcement section. Some local residents have voiced concerns about renewed commercial service, citing financial losses for the airfield. However, regional airports like CLD play an important role for travelers in underserved areas and for pilots starting their careers.
