United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby sits down with Richard Quest of CNN:
United Airlines CEO touts airline’s performance, says it’s prepared for economic downturn
Category Archives: United Airlines
The first United Airlines Airbus A321neo is being built
United Airlines will soon take delivery of its first Airbus A321neo.
The airline has 70 on order.
The first A321neo is expected to be the pictured (below) A321-271NX N44501 (msn 11500).
The new type is under construction with Airbus at Hamburg:
United Airlines pilots approve a strike authorization vote
United Airlines’ pilots, represented by ALPA, have voted to authorize a strike vote if contract talks fail with the company.
No strike date has been set.
From Forbes:
From Reuters:
United Airlines adds 35 flights, six routes, 12 gates at Denver
United Airlines today announced plans to significantly grow its position as Denver’s leading airline, adding 35 flights, six new routes, a dozen new gates and three clubs, including the largest ones in the carrier’s network.
Starting this summer, United also will double the total number of early morning departures and late evening arrivals in and out of Denver, giving customers more flexibility and more options to stay away longer.
United will celebrate the expansion later today at Denver International Airport where the airline’s CEO Scott Kirby and Chief Customer Officer Linda Jojo will host customers, elected officials and local partners for a tour of United’s soon-to-open club spaces and a look inside a brand-new Boeing 737 MAX 9 aircraft, one of the planes that will fly some of the new Denver routes and one of about 700 new planes the airline expects to receive in the next decade.
“Denver is one of the fastest growing cities in the country and as the Mile High City’s most flown airline, it’s essential that we maintain the most modern infrastructure and fleet to support our local employees and customers and deliver a great experience,” said United CEO Scott Kirby. “Our expansion in Denver will further enable us to connect our customers to destinations across the globe and revitalize our presence at the airport with modern, customer friendly offerings.”
According to The American Growth Project, Denver is one of America’s fastest growing cities. It not only attracts professionals who work in hybrid environments, but also has retained millennials who lived in Denver when they were younger and decided to stay or return by age 26. Both of those groups want access to more flexible travel options that include a wide range of domestic and international choices.
The airline will add new nonstops to six destinations including four not served by any other Denver airline: Dayton, OH; Greensboro, NC; Lexington, KY and San Juan, Puerto Rico.
The airline’s local infrastructure improvements include 12 new gates set to open in the A and B concourses by the middle of 2024. That will give United 90 total gates, the most at Denver International Airport.
This expansion is part of the carrier’s nearly $1 billion investment to further improve the customer experience in Denver – an increase in gate capacity by 30%, a new check-in lobby, new user-friendly technology at gates, a new grab-n-go club concept called United Club FlySM and the renovation and expansion of United ClubSM locations.
This summer, United will also open a new club on the A Concourse and reopen its first of two revamped clubs on the B Concourse. The B concourse United Club locations will be the largest ever . All three United Club locations will feature two full levels of club space, and an upgraded design that reflects the Colorado region.
Growing United’s Network in Denver
As a result of the airline’s United Next plan, United will expand mainline flying out of Denver to its highest levels in 20 years, while repurposing its regional fleet to fly to smaller, less-served destinations. Overall, United will offer more capacity from Denver than ever before, with over 60,000 departing seats per day.
In total, United will operate 35 new flights in 2023 out of Denver and since 2018, has added over 90 mainline departures per day.
This year, United will fly new 737 MAX aircraft non-stop to San Juan, Puerto Rico, beginning October 29, and Montego Bay, Jamaica*, beginning November 4. In addition to the new routes, United will use its new MAX aircraft to increase service to popular destinations like Miami, Austin, Boston and Atlanta. As United grows its mainline fleet, the airline will use Embraer 175 aircraft to connect Denver with Asheville, NC; Dayton, OH; Greensboro, NC and Lexington, KY, starting on September 29.
United’s new morning flight bank will offer Denver customers expanded flight options to many popular destinations like Dallas/Fort Worth, Las Vegas, Los Angeles, Orlando, Phoenix, Portland, San Diego and Seattle. By doubling the total number of early morning departures and late evening arrivals, customers will have more flexibility and a greater ability to maximize their stays.
This summer, United will fly non-stop to more than 150 destinations from Denver, with over 450 daily departures – more than 50% more flights and destinations than the airline’s nearest competitor. United is proud to be the only airline serving Hawaii non-stop from Denver, with up to five daily flights across Hawaii’s four largest islands. Additionally, with 18 international destinations – more than double any other airline, and the only US carrier serving Europe and Japan – United is the go-to airline for Denver customers traveling across the United States and the world.
New Gates and Clubs
Last year, United began its ambitious concourse expansion, adding 20 new gates across A and B concourses. United plans to open 12 more gates by the middle of 2024, bringing United to an industry-leading 90 gates at the airport. The airline is also investing more than $40 million to update its footprint at 55 existing Concourse B gates by incorporating modern furniture options with in-seat power and new digital signage and self-service kiosks to support customers on their journey.
This summer, United will also open two of three new United Club locations in Denver, including its largest club in the world. Each club will feature elevated design inspired by Colorado as well as modern amenities including self-scan entry gates, Agent on Demand kiosks, free high-speed Wi-Fi, among others. Once open, Denver International Airport will feature approximately 100,000 square-feet of club space across three United Club locations and United Club Fly, the airline’s grab-and-go club format that debuted in 2022.
‘That’s the Denver in Us’ Advertising Debut
Nearly a year after United debuted its first fully integrated national brand advertising campaign in nearly a decade, Good Leads The Way, the brand is localizing its approach to advertising starting with one of its largest hubs: Denver.
‘That’s the Denver in Us” is the story of an airline and a city with a shared DNA that bring out the best in each other. From taking Denver careers to new heights as the largest private employer in the city, to serving as the ideal backdrop to prepare the next generation of pilots at the world’s largest training facility, Denver and United’s more than 85-year history is unique and extends far beyond the arrival and departure gates.
Travelers and the Denver community will see the love letter to the city on local broadcast TV, on digital kiosks in the airport and downtown as well as on billboards around the city. The advertisements also will run on streaming platforms and on United social channels in Denver.
Creating Thousands of Careers
United is the largest private employer in the city of Denver, with nearly 10,000 Denver-based employees and growing. In 2023, the airline plans to hire more than 2,300 people – from ramp agents and customer service representatives, to pilots, flight attendants, maintenance technicians and more.
Overall, in 2022, the airline hired 15,000 people across its network and will add another 15,000 this year – on track to add about 50,000 people by 2026. For more information about United’s recruiting and hiring efforts, visit careers.united.com.
*Flight subject to government approval
United Airlines becomes first U.S. airline to add live activities for iPhone
United Airlines today became the first U.S. airline to support Live Activities for iPhone, giving customers real-time access to their boarding pass, gate and seat number, and countdown clock to departure time on their Lock Screen or while unlocked in the Dynamic Island, all without opening the United app.
United customers check their mobile boarding pass and flight status nearly 800,000 times each day, and this new feature makes it even easier and faster for United flyers to receive timely updates and find important flight details.
Live Activities helps United customers with iPhones stay informed in real time, so they can see live flight updates, flight details and alerts right on the Lock Screen or in the Dynamic Island on iPhone 14 Pro and iPhone 14 Pro Max.
With a quick glance at the iPhone screen, customers can:
- Get details like the flight number, on-time status, inbound aircraft status, estimated departure and arrival times, and more in the Live Activity on the Lock Screen or the Dynamic Island when expanded
- Open their boarding pass directly from the Live Activity to easily scan during security check-in or while boarding their flight
- See departure and arrival gates, pre- and in-flight countdowns, and baggage carousel information right in the Dynamic Island
Support for Live Activities has started to roll out to United travelers and will be widely available by the end of May. To experience the new features, customers should verify that their iPhone is running iOS 16.1 or later and their United app is up to date.
With up to three million users interacting with the app daily, United’ mobile app is recognized for its accessibility options for the visually impaired, personalization options and improved navigation. The air carrier has consistently rolled out industry-leading app features in recent years, including:
- Agent on Demand: Only United has a virtual, on demand customer service tool that lets customers scan a QR code and video chat, text or call a customer service representative instead of waiting in line at the airport. Last year, 1.3 million customers used Agent on Demand, and in 2023, we’ve already seen 192,000 customers use the platform.
- United Map Search: Customers can easily compare and shop for flights based on departure city, budget and location type, with an interactive map feature. Available on the United app and website, this digital tool displays fares in a map view, allowing customers to simultaneously compare travel to a variety of destinations in a single search.
- Travel Ready Center: This one-stop digital assistant on united.com and the United app outlines any necessary travel requirements with clear guidance, helping customers prepare for their travel and breeze through the airport without stopping for manual document checks.
- Terminal Guide: Customers receive personalized day-of instructions to navigate point-to-point throughout the airport – from directing them to the most ideal airport entrance to finding their departure gate.
Top Copyright Photo: United Airlines Boeing 757-324 WL N74856 (msn 32815) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 960580.
United Airlines aircraft photo gallery (Boeing):
United Airlines to end service to Westchester County Airport serving the White Plains, NY area
United Airlines has elected to end United Express service to Westchester County Airport on July 1. The airline was serving the airport from its Chicago (O’Hare) hub.
The airline is dropping service to White Plains, NY (HPN) due to a shortage of regional pilots.
United Airlines retrofits its first Airbus A319 with a new interior
United Airlines has released its first Airbus A319 with its new signature interior.
The upgrade features:
Bigger overhead bins with room for everyone’s carry-on
Bluetooth connectivity
Screens and power at every seat
Updated United First seats
Top Copyright Photo: United Airlines Airbus A319-132 N878UA (msn 2371) YYC (Chris Sands). Image: 959520.
United Airlines aircraft photo gallery (Airbus):
United Airlines pilots picket across the country for a better contract
ALPA issued this statement:
3,000 United Airlines pilots, joined by ALPA president Capt. Jason Ambrosi, fellow ALPA pilots, and union supporters stood shoulder to shoulder in a coast-to-coast picketing event on May 12 to make their voices heard as management makes no significant movement to modernize their antiquated contract.
United pilots, represented by the Air Line Pilots Association, Int’l (ALPA), protested management’s refusal to recognize the vital role the pilots play in their company’s success.
“I am proud to stand here today to send United Airlines management a message that the airline’s pilots have the full backing of their international union in their fight for the contract they have earned,” said Ambrosi. “United management needs to stop slow-rolling negotiations that have dragged into their fifth year and do the right thing for their pilots.”
“United pilots will always be there for our customers,” said Capt. Garth Thompson, United ALPA Master Executive Council (MEC) chair. “Unfortunately, the same cannot be said about management, who seems to think that a last-minute cancelation of a United pilot’s scheduled day off, or abrupt trip reassignments that extend into planned days off is acceptable for a United pilot’s family. This is an example of how this old pilot contract impacts our ability to maintain a healthy work-life balance. United pilots will deal with this adversity in our usual professional and safe manner. We will continue to work in 2023 despite staffing shortages in Air Traffic Control facilities, aggressive summer schedules, capacity constraints, and weather. And most importantly, United pilots want the company and the public to know that the bold ‘United Next’ growth plans cannot work without an updated pilot contract.”
United’s pilots demand higher pay and benefits than the landmark Delta agreement
United Airlines is joining other U.S. carriers coming under pressure to match or exceed the landmark contract that Delta Air Lines signed with its pilots.
United’s pilots are demanding a new contract that would exceed the Delta contract.
More from Reuters:
Top Copyright Photo: United Airlines Boeing 737-9 MAX 9 N37549 (msn 64475) BFI (Brian Worthington). Image: 960503.
United Airlines aircraft photo gallery (current livery, Boeing):
Azul Airlines and United Airlines expand codeshare arrangements to include six new U.S. Destinations
Azul Brazilian Airlines and United Airlines, announced an expansion to their codeshare agreement, making it easier for customers to travel to more cities in the United States. Travelers will be able to connect between Azul and United at Fort Lauderdale and Orlando to six new U.S. destinations: Chicago, Cleveland, Denver, San Francisco, Washington and Los Angeles.
With the new codeshare flight options, customers will benefit from having a single ticket that includes both Azul and United-operated flights, as well as more convenience on their day of travel with one-stop check-in and baggage transfers. Tickets are already available on united.com and voeazul.com.br for flights starting May 10. This expanded agreement builds on United and Azul’s existing codeshare routes from Houston and Newark.
From Brazil, Azul operates 16 direct flights connecting Fort Lauderdale to Recife (PE), Manaus (AM), Viracopos (SP), Belém (PA), and Belo Horizonte (MG). There are also direct flights from Orlando to Viracopos (SP).
Azul has the largest airline network in Brazil in terms of cities served, with over 900 daily flights. The quality of Azul’s services has been attested by many national and international awards. Recently, Cirium named Azul the most punctual Global and Latin America’s airline in both the Mainline and Network categories. The Brazilian airline recorded an impressive 88.93% punctuality within the Global Mainline Category.
Azul operates daily services to Fort Lauderdale/Miami and Orlando with a retrofitted A330 aircraft. These aircraft feature 20 lie-flat business class seats with direct aisle access. In addition, these aircraft have 110 Economy Premium seats with increased legroom for additional comfort and space. All seats have individual inflight entertainment on demand, Wi-Fi, power outlets and each customer is treated to Azul’s international flagship meal service.
United Airlines reports a $256 million pre-tax loss in the first quarter
United Airlines (UAL) reported first quarter 2023 financial results.
The company reported a $256 million pre-tax loss, consistent with expectations provided in March. The company grew total operating revenue by 51.1% compared to first quarter 2022 and total revenue per available seat mile (TRASM) by 22.5%. Cost per available seat mile (CASM) increased 4.0%, while CASM-ex2 came in at down 0.1%, better than guidance due to strong operational reliability that produced available seat miles (ASMs) 23.4% higher than the first quarter of 2022. The company remains confident in the 2023 United Next adjusted diluted earnings per share1 target of $10 to $12.
“I am extremely proud of the United team’s performance during the first quarter of 2023. Our industry-leading operational performance contributed to an all-time high operating cash flow in the first quarter and keeps us on track to achieve our cost targets for the full year,” said United Airlines CEO Scott Kirby. “We are watching the macroeconomic risks carefully, but demand remains strong, especially internationally, where we are growing at twice the domestic rate. We expect all of these factors will keep us on track to achieve our full-year adjusted diluted EPS1 target.”
First-Quarter Financial Results
- Net loss of $194 million, adjusted net loss3 of $207 million.
- Capacity up 23.4% compared to first-quarter 2022.
- Total operating revenue of $11.4 billion, up 51.1% compared to first-quarter 2022.
- TRASM up 22.5% compared to first-quarter 2022.
- CASM up 4.0%, and CASM-ex2 down 0.1%, compared to first-quarter 2022.
- Diluted loss per share of $0.59, adjusted diluted loss per share1 of $0.63.
- Average fuel price per gallon of $3.33.
- Reduced adjusted total debt3 by $4.6 billion in the last 12 months.
Key Highlights
- United reached a tentative agreement with the International Association of Machinists & Aerospace Workers (IAM) for a new, industry-leading contract for our nearly 30,000 IAM-represented employees. Voting is expected to complete in early May.
- Today announced the largest South Pacific network expansion ever to and from the continental U.S., including the first non-stop flight between San Francisco and Christchurch(subject to government approval). With 66 flights between the United States and Australia/New Zealand every week, United will operate nearly 40% more flights from the United States to Australia and New Zealand next northern winter versus last year.
- Launched the United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight FundSM, a first-of-its-kind investment vehicle designed to support start-ups focused on decarbonizing air travel by accelerating the research, production and technologies associated with sustainable aviation fuel.
- Opened expanded and newly renovated global Inflight Training Center in Houston, Texas – the $32 million expansion project more than doubles the available training space and supports the airline’s plan to hire and train a total of 15,000 people in 2023, including 4,000 flight attendants.
- United announced a new industry-leading family seating policy enabled by dynamic seat map technology that makes it easier for children under 12 to sit next to an adult – since launch United enabled almost 50,000 more families to sit with their children.
- United collaborated with Sesame Workshop to announce Oscar the Grouch as its first Chief Trash Officer as he and the airline celebrate his love of rubbish. United’s campaign is designed to promote the expected benefit of using sustainable aviation fuel more broadly.
Operational Performance
- Achieved the lowest first quarter seat cancel rate (1.09%) since the first quarter of 2012, leading the U.S. industry despite the greater impact of weather on United than any other airline.
- United flew the most mainline seats 413,000 in company history and most mainline flights 2,300 daily for the quarter.
- United finished first in on-time departures at O’Hare International Airport, DenverInternational Airport, Los Angeles International Airport, and George Bush Intercontinental Airport and second in on-time departures out of San Francisco International Airport and Dulles International Airport as well as at our international stations.
- Net Promoter Score (NPS) performance for clubs and inflight service satisfaction was at an all-time high for the quarter since the launch of the NPS survey in 2020.
Network
- Through an enhanced cross-border joint business agreement with Air Canada announced industry-leading capacity and new routes between Canada and the U.S. for summer 2023.
- Launched four new international routes between Dubai, United Arab Emirates, and Newark/New York and between Tokyo-Haneda, Japan, and Newark/New York, Los Angeles, and Washington D.C. Reintroduced four international routes not flown since the beginning of the pandemic – service between Tokyo-Narita, Japan and Denver, Osaka, Japan and San Francisco, Hong Kong, and San Francisco, and Managua, Nicaragua, and Houston.
- Resumed non-stop service between Shanghai and San Francisco, becoming the first U.S. airline to not require a technical stop between the U.S. and Shanghai since November 2020.
- Increased domestic premium seat capacity 25% versus first quarter 2019.
Customer Enhancements
- The new United ClubSM at O’Hare International Airport had a strong debut in January 2023 with stellar customer satisfaction scores.
- During the first quarter, over 1 million customers used United’s “bag drop shortcut” which streamlines the bag-check process and is active at 38 airports.
- With the opening of the new Terminal A at Newark Liberty International Airport, added 12 gates for its operations and expects to have 17 total gates by the end of 2023.
Communities
- President Joe Biden announced his intent to appoint United President Brett Hart to the President’s Export Council – the principal national advisory committee on international trade.
- Celebrated the graduation of United Aviate Academy’s inaugural class of pilots, an important step towards training the next generation of talented, qualified, and motivated aviators.
- Announced a $5 million investment in algae-based fuel producer Viridos to turn microalgae into sustainable aviation fuel through the first new investment of its recently announced United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight Fund since its launch.
- Announced a $15 million investment by United Airlines Ventures Sustainable Flight Fund (UAV) in carbon capture technology company Svante, that provides materials and technology as part of the value chain that has the potential to convert CO2 removed from the atmosphere and from industrial emission sources into sustainable aviation fuel.
- United Airlines, Tallgrass, and Green Plains Inc. announced a new joint venture – Blue Blade Energy – to develop and then commercialize a novel sustainable aviation fuel technology that uses ethanol as its feedstock.
- Nearly 4,000 hours were volunteered by more than 470 employees. More than 8.4 million miles donated by MileagePlus® members to more than 60 non-profit organizations.
- Launched our Miles on a MissionSM campaign to support Turkey and Syria earthquake relief, raising nearly 400,000 miles and $25,000 for Airlink, American Red Cross, and World Central Kitchen.
- Nearly 300 employees participated in Martin Luther King Jr. Day parades and volunteer activities across the company’s network.
- Supported Sesame Workshop’s Welcome Sesame initiative, delivering critically needed early childhood development opportunities to families affected by conflict and crisis.
- Led a Black History Month fundraising campaign – alongside Chase and Visa – for our cardmembers, supporting The Thurgood Marshall College Fund, The Leadership Conference Education Fund, The Legal Defense Fund, and The United Negro College Fund.
United Airlines announces largest South Pacific expansion in aviation history, including Christchurch, New Zealand
United Airlines today announced the largest South Pacific network expansion ever to and from the continental U.S., including the first nonstop flight between San Francisco and Christchurch set to commence on December 1. United will be the only carrier to directly connect the U.S. and the South Island of New Zealand. With 66 flights between the US and Australia/New Zealand every week, United will operate nearly 40% more flights from the U.S. to Australia and New Zealand next northern winter versus last year.
The carrier is adding new direct flights from Los Angeles to Brisbane and Auckland and increasing service to the region from its San Francisco hub with daily flights to Brisbane, twice daily flights to Sydney and flying larger aircraft to Melbourne. And thanks to United’s relationships with Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia, travelers can enjoy easy one-stop connections from these cities to more than 50 destinations in the region.
United already flies to more destinations in Australia and New Zealand than all other U.S. carriers combined, and now will have more flights and serve more destinations in the region from the U.S. than any other carrier in the world. Tickets are now on sale on the airline’s mobile app and on United.com – just in time for customers to plan their trips for the region’s peak winter season.
San Francisco – Christchurch, NZ*
Starting December 1, United will be the only airline to offer direct flights between the U.S. and New Zealand’s South Island, with the first direct San Francisco-Christchurch service. United will fly this route three times weekly on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. United’s new flight to Christchurch is part of the airline’s broader expansion efforts in New Zealand and next winter, the airline will be nearly 70% larger in New Zealand than in 2019.
Los Angeles – Auckland*
Next winter, United will build on its position as the largest U.S. airline to Auckland, adding four weekly flights from Los Angeles. United is the only U.S. carrier to serve Auckland year-round with its existing service from San Francisco. United will fly its Los Angeles-Auckland route on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner, starting October 28.
Los Angeles – Brisbane*
In winter 2022, United became the only airline to offer direct flights between Brisbane and San Francisco. On November 29, United will add to this service by adding three weekly Los Angles-Brisbane flights on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner – becoming the largest carrier between the U.S. and Brisbane.
More Flights to Sydney and Brisbane
In addition to adding new flights to its schedule, United will also increase its flying from San Francisco to Brisbane and Sydney. Starting October 28, United will offer daily flights between San Francisco and Brisbane on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner and will be able to fly nearly triple the number of customers to Brisbane from the US next winter than it did in 2022. The airline will also fly twice daily between San Francisco and Sydney on Boeing 777-300ERs starting October 28, offering more flights to Sydney from the U.S. than any other carrier.
More Seats to Melbourne
This past winter, United became the largest airline from the U.S. to Melbourne, increasing from ten to fourteen weekly roundtrip flights, with one daily flight from both San Francisco and Los Angeles. Starting October 28, United will deploy its largest airplane on flights between San Francisco-Melbourne. The 777-300ER will add nearly 100 daily seats to each departure. Compared to winter 2019, United will offer 65% more seats to Melbourne.
*flights subject to government approval
Top Copyright Photo: United Airlines Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner N29978 (msn 66137) LAX (Michael B. Ing). Image: 960423.
United Airlines aircraft photo gallery (Boeing):
Major U.S. airlines to cut capacity into and out of New York City this summer
American Airlines, Delta Air Lines and United Airlines have indicated they will cut the number of flights operating into and out of the New York City area this summer due to a shortage of air traffic controllers.
JetBlue Airways also indicated it will also cut back at its New York City home.
Airlines will need to upgauge the type of aircraft flying into the region to minimize the shortage of seats.
The FAA estimates it only has around 55% of the air traffic controllers it needs for the area. Training takes time.
The FAA issued this report:
The FAA anticipates a busy summer air travel season to and from New York City, some of the country’s most complex and congested airspace. To ensure safe and smooth operations, the agency’s Air Traffic Organization held a productive meeting today with airlines, general aviation representatives and associations and the National Air Traffic Controllers Association to discuss ways to minimize impacts to passengers.
Participants discussed traffic flow management strategies, system resiliency and facility staffing. Operators requested collaboration and communication with the FAA early and often to plan for circumstances that could result in delays, including weather events, space launches and military operations. They discussed how closer collaboration and frequent air traffic updates would help them more effectively schedule crews.
They also requested increased coordination between facilities to take advantage of alternate routes, such as deep water routes.
The FAA discussed efforts to reduce the air traffic controller training backlog at many FAA air traffic facilities, but pointed out that staffing levels at the New York Terminal Radar Approach Control (N90) continue to be below targets. The agency stressed that it will be more flexible to safely accommodate the projected increase in demand this summer. The agency will be more proactive regarding traffic management initiatives.
The agency is reviewing the feedback from participants and will identify actions to improve operations this summer in the New York area.
The summit was similar to the one hosted in Florida last year that resulted in measures to improve efficiency in another high-demand area.
Background
The agency has already taken several steps in anticipation of the increased demand. It recently announced that it will give airlines flexibility on slot usage requirements. In turn, the FAA expects airlines to take actions minimizing impacts on passengers, including operating larger aircraft to transport more passengers and making sure passengers are fully informed about any possible disruptions.
Boeing 737: Triumph And Tragedy of United Airlines flight UA585
Video:
Two 737 planes crash within several years of each other. The similarities are striking but investigators are stumped. It takes a third near miss, for investigators to get the break they need and crack the case.
Mayday: Air Disaster – From Season 4 Episode 5 “Hidden Danger”: United Airlines 585 USAir 585
Around the globe, more than six billion people have traveled on a Boeing 737. They’re the backbone of the aviation industry. But in 1991, something happened onboard a 737 that sent shudders through the world of aviation.
Moments from landing, United Airlines 585 starts spinning out of control and falls out of the sky at 450 kilometers per hour. Everyone on board is killed. In ten violent seconds, the crash site has become one of the most mysterious air disasters in aviation history.
Almost two years after the crash, the NTSB had studied the crew, the weather, the rudder, and thousands of other pieces of evidence – but they can’t solve the mystery.
Mayday: Air Disaster is a dramatic non-fiction series that investigates high-profile air disasters to uncover how and why they happened. Mayday: Air Disaster follows survivors, family members of crash victims and transportation safety investigators as they piece together the evidence of the causes of major accidents. So climb into the cockpit for an experience you won’t soon forget.
United Airlines will fly to 114 different international cities this summer and has expanded its flying by 25% versus last year
United Airlines will fly to 114 different international cities this summer and has expanded its flying by 25% versus last year to meet the sharp increase in demand for travel outside of the U.S. The airline is already the largest carrier across both the Atlantic and Pacific and this summer’s schedule includes nearly 25 new routes. According to United booking data, international bookings are already 15% higher than the same period in 2022*.
Highlights of the 2023 summer schedule include:
- New service to Malaga, Dubai, and Stockholm
- Additional flights to Rome, Paris, Barcelona, Berlin, Shannon, Edinburgh, and Naples
- Almost two dozen daily flights to London-Heathrow
- Service to unique places like Amman, the Azores, Palma de Mallorca and Tenerife
- Expanded service to Australia, serving Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane
- 10 daily transpacific flights to Tokyo-Haneda, Tokyo-Narita and Osaka
- Twice-daily flights to Seoul, South Koreafrom San Francisco
- Service to Hong Kong from San Francisco
Tickets are on sale now on the airline’s mobile app and on United.com.
“United will give travelers more options than ever before this summer – especially if they want to fly internationally,” said Patrick Quayle, senior vice president of global network planning and alliances. “With unprecedented demand for travel overseas, we’ll have more service to popular cities while also adding new and unique destinations for customers to explore.”
Newark – Dubai, UAE
On March 25, United launched daily service between New York/Newark and Dubai, UAE, operated on a Boeing 777-200ER aircraft. The flight is part of a historic commercial agreement between the airline and Emirates that will enhance each airline’s network and give their customers easier access to hundreds of destinations within the United States and around the world. MileagePlus members traveling on United’s New York/Newark-Dubai flight can earn and redeem award miles on connecting flights to nearly 75 destinations in the Emirates and flydubai networks. United is the only U.S. airline to offer non-stop flights to Dubai from the U.S. and flies to more destinations in the Middle East and India than any other U.S. airline.
Newark – Malaga, Spain
United is adding a fifth Spanish destination to its global network with new direct flights between New York/Newarkand Malaga. Starting May 31, travelers will be able to explore Spain’s Mediterranean coast with three flights per week to Malaga on a Boeing 757-200. United flies to more destinations in Spain than any other U.S. airline and this summer will offer direct flights to three Spanish cities that no other U.S. airline serves: Malaga, Tenerife and Palma de Mallorca.
Newark – Stockholm, Sweden
On May 27, United will return to Stockholm for the first time since 2019 with service from New York/Newark. United first began serving Stockholm, which locals proudly refer to as the “beauty on water”, in 2005. United will reconnect customers to this culturally rich and dynamic capital city with daily flights on a Boeing 757-200.
San Francisco – Rome, Italy
United broadens its industry-leading European network from San Francisco with daily flights to Rome launching on May 25 on a Boeing 777-200ER. United is the only U.S. airline to offer direct flights to Europe from its hub in San Francisco, and this summer will offer non-stop flights to seven popular European cities. With flights to Rome, Milan, Venice and Naples, United continues to fly to more cities in Italy from the U.S. than any other airline in the world.
Chicago/O’Hare – Shannon, Ireland
Beginning May 25, United will add more seasonal flights to Shannon, Ireland with new daily flights from Chicago O’Hare – giving customers more options to explore some of the country’s most scenic destinations including Limerick and Galway. United is the only U.S. carrier to offer direct flights to Shannon with its existing seasonal service from New York/Newark, and also offers direct flights to Dublin from Chicago, New York/Newark and Washington Dulles. United will fly a Boeing 757-200 on this route.
Washington Dulles – Berlin, Germany
United will begin capital-to-capital service between Washington, D.C. and Berlin, Germany on May 25. United will be the only carrier to offer non-stop flights between these cities with daily flights on a Boeing 767-400ER. United offers more flights to Berlin from the U.S. than any other airline, with existing year-round flights from Newark.
Chicago O’Hare – Barcelona, Spain
United continues to expand its best-in-class European network from Chicago this summer with new direct, daily flights to Barcelona on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, starting May 25. This summer, United will fly to 14 destinations in Europefrom Chicago, more than any other airline. This new flight builds on United’s existing service to Barcelona from New York/Newark and Washington Dulles.
More Flights to Paris and London
United will have 23 daily flights to London Heathrow this summer, with the recent addition of a second daily flight between Los Angeles and London Heathrow on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner. United offers more flights and more business class seats from New York and the west coast to London than any other U.S. carrier and this summer. This new flight builds upon United’s recent London expansion, with additional flights from Newark, San Francisco, and Denver, as well as new flights from Boston.
United is also adding more options for travel between Washington Dulles and Paris Charles de Gaulle with a second daily flight launching June 2, operated by a Boeing 777-200ER. United currently offers year-round flights to Paris from New York/Newark, Washington Dulles, Chicago and San Francisco.
Resumption of Unique Seasonal Service and Added Flights to Popular Destinations
Along with adding new flights, United will fly nine transatlantic routes it added last summer, including direct flights between New York/Newark and Nice; Denver and Munich; Boston and London Heathrow; Chicago/O’Hare and Zurich; and Chicago/O’Hare and Milan, as well as flights to four destinations not served by any other North American airline, including Amman, Jordan; Azores, Portugal; Palma de Mallorca, Spain and Tenerife, Spain. United has also added a second seasonal frequency from New York/Newark to Edinburgh, Scotland from May 25 to October 27 and from New York/Newark to Naples, Italy from June 23 to September 7.
Asia Pacific Expansion
This summer, United will also be the largest airline across the Pacific, serving 27 unique destinations. Excluding Mainland China and Hong Kong, United’s capacity across the Pacific will exceed 2019 levels by more than 15% this summer. United recently resumed pre-pandemic service between Denver-Tokyo/Narita and San Francisco-Hong Kong, and added new service to Tokyo/Haneda from Washington Dulles and Los Angeles.
United will also have an expanded schedule between Australia and the U.S. this summer, including non-stop routes to Australia’s three largest cities – Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. Plus, the airline’s recently launched codeshare partnership with Virgin Australia also allows travelers to make easy connections to more than 20 additional cities within Australia.
*International bookings up 15% in March 2023 vs March 2022
Top Copyright Photo: United Airlines Boeing 767-322 ER WL N648UA (msn 25285) AMS (Ton Jochems). Image: 960392.
United Airlines aircraft photo gallery:
Emirates and United activate codeshare partnership to enhance connectivity to the US
Emirates and United have activated their codeshare partnership, allowing Emirates customers to enjoy easier access to an expanded choice of U.S. destinations. Starting today, Emirates customers will be able to fly to three of the nation’s biggest business hubs – Chicago, Houston or San Francisco – and connect easily to an expansive network of domestic U.S. points on flights operated by United.
Tickets are available to purchase from today on emirates.com as well as through trade channels including travel agencies.
With the launch of the partnership, Emirates customers heading to the U.S., can now look forward to access to more than 150 U.S. cities in the United network, via the three gateways.
Similarly, Emirates customers in the U.S. planning trips to Dubai and beyond have a myriad of choices and can utilise United’s services to easily connect to Emirates operated flights bound for Dubai, via Chicago, Houston or San Francisco. The world just got bigger for U.S. travelers journeying to Emirates’ extensive network beyond Dubai, including many unique destinations across the Middle East, Africa, Central Asia and the Indian subcontinent.
On the flights, passengers can enjoy Emirates’ award-winning services and a host of convenient travel benefits afforded by the agreement. Travellers with itineraries on Emirates’ codeshare flights can plan their entire trip on a single-ticket and take advantage of the airline’s baggage allowance, in addition to convenient bag check-through to the final destination.
Emirates is also enabling its Skywards members to earn and redeem miles on all flights across United’s worldwide network.
The partnership unlocks a host of popular destinations accessible from Emirates gateways such as Atlanta, Austin, Denver, Minneapolis and Phoenix. Emirates passengers planning trips to destinations such as Detroit, can fly direct from Dubai to Chicago or Houston, and simply connect on a United flight to the final destination, while enjoying the hassle-free flight benefits. The reciprocal benefits extend to passengers flying out of the U.S. using Emirates services to fly to Dubai, with the same easy access from a vast network of domestic cities and connection at one of the three hubs.
United Airlines now forecasts a first quarter loss due to lower demand and rising pilot pay
United Airlines is now forecasting a first quarter loss due to declining demand and rising pilot costs.
According to Reuters, “United said a combination of lower-demand in January and February and higher capacity has weakened its pricing power.
Total revenue per available seat mile, a proxy for pricing power, is estimated to be up 22% to 23% in the first quarter from a year ago, slower than the 25% growth expected earlier.”
Top Copyright Photo: United Airlines Boeing 737-724 SSWL N15712 (msn 28783) IAH (Jarrod Wilkening). Image: 960270.
United Airlines aircraft photo gallery (Boeing):
Air Wisconsin to relaunch American Eagle operations this month from Chicago-O’Hare
Air Wisconsin Airlines will start operating as an American Eagle carrier again starting this month as it ends its relationship with United Airlines as an United Express carrier.
Aircraft are now being painted in American Eagle colors.
Previously the airline flew for American from 2015 through 2018.
Previously on August 22, 2022, Air Wisconsin announced a five year contract to operate up to 60 Bombardier CRJ200s for American starting in March 2023. These aircraft will be based at Chicago-O’Hare International Airport, to replace the Envoy Air Embraer E145s that are being transferred to Piedmont Airlines (2nd). The airline also plans to utilize some CRJ700s.
Mesa to start flying its CRJ900s for United on March 4
Mesa Airlines will begin flying its Bombardier CRJ900s on March 4, 2023 for United Airlines from its new base at Houston Bush Intercontinental Airport. Initial routes will be to Birmingham, Dallas/Fort Worth, El Paso, Louisville, McAllen and Phoenix.
Statement by United Airlines on the winter storm
Waiver: Midwest Winter Weather
Original ticket must have been purchased by:
February 19, 2023
Original travel dates
February 22, 2023 – February 23, 2023
Flight changes:
The change fee and any difference in fare will be waived for United flights departing on or before February 27, 2023, as long as travel is rescheduled in the originally ticketed cabin (any fare class) and between the same cities as originally ticketed. View your reservation and select Change Flight to search for alternate flights.
Rebooking window: February 20, 2023 – February 27, 2023
Airports
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- Cedar Rapids, IA (CID)
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