United Airlines is set to launch its largest international expansion in summer 2025, adding flights to eight new cities, shown in a Newsweek map.
The expansion includes new routes to Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia; Nuuk, Greenland; Palermo, Italy; Bilbao, Spain; Dakar, Senegal; and three others. These destinations will be accessible from United’s Newark/New York and Washington D.C./Dulles hubs.
United’s summer 2025 schedule will feature more than 760 weekly flights across the Atlantic, offering more flights to European destinations than any other U.S. airline. This expansion positions United as the U.S. airline with the most extensive trans-Atlantic network, enhancing its service to countries such as Spain, Italy, France, Greece, and Croatia.
Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances at United, said in a press release: “No other airline gives customers nonstop access to as many unique international destinations and experiences from the U.S. as United.”
New Routes to Europe and Africa
Among the new European routes, Palermo, Italy, and Bilbao, Spain, stand out as key additions. Starting in May 2025, United will offer seasonal flights to Palermo, the capital of Sicily, known for its historical landmarks and Mediterranean beaches. This route strengthens United’s presence in Italy, where it already flies to Venice, Milan, and Rome.
Bilbao, a cultural hub in Northern Spain, is another new addition. The city is home to the world-renowned Guggenheim Museum and offers access to the Basque Country’s scenic landscapes. Flights to Bilbao from Newark will begin on May 31, 2025, making United the only U.S. airline with nonstop service to the city.
In Africa, United’s new year-round flight to Dakar, Senegal, will launch on May 23, 2025. Located on the west coast of Africa, Dakar is known for its pristine beaches and rich history. This new route builds on United’s existing service to destinations such as Cape Town, Johannesburg, and Lagos, further expanding its presence in Africa.
A United Airlines airplane is serviced at a gate at Newark Liberty International Airport on September 28, 2024, in New Jersey. The airline is adding eight international cities to its schedules for 2025.
Gary Hershorn/Getty Images
Unique Destinations in Greenland and Mongolia
United is also introducing flights to Nuuk, Greenland, and Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia’s capital—destinations no other U.S. airline serves. Starting in June 2025, United will offer twice-weekly flights from Newark to Nuuk, providing American travelers direct access to Greenland’s capital for the first time. Nuuk offers a gateway to Arctic adventures, such as hiking and wildlife viewing under the midnight sun.
In Asia, United will connect Tokyo-Narita with Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, starting in May 2025. This route will give travelers access to Mongolia’s untouched landscapes and growing tourism sector.
Expanded Service to Portugal
United will add two new destinations in Portugal: Faro and Madeira Island. Faro, the gateway to the Algarve’s beaches and golf resorts, will have four weekly flights from Newark starting in May 2025. Seasonal flights to Madeira Island, 690 miles southwest of Portugal, will also launch in June.
This expansion cements United’s position as the U.S. airline with the most international destinations, offering more choices for travelers seeking unique global experiences.
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