(TAN): United Airlines has announced what it says is its largest South Pacific network expansion ever to and from the continental US, including the first non-stop flight between San Francisco and Christchurch set to commence on December 1, the Star Alliance member said in a news release.
United said it would be the only carrier to directly connect the US 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 US to Australia and New Zealand next northern winter as compared to 2022.
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The airline 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.
“This past winter, United enhanced our network and became the largest carrier to the South Pacific region. Now, this upcoming winter, we will expand even further,” said Patrick Quayle, SVP of global network planning and alliances. “Our strong partnerships with Air New Zealand and Virgin Australia provide unparalleled connectivity, and with our historic expansion across five destinations in New Zealand and Australia, United is the clear choice for customers’ travel to the region.”
