United adds new flights to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, Adelaide, and Manila, expanding its footprint across the Asia-Pacific region and solidifying its position as the leading U.S. airline in the Pacific.
This latest expansion brings four exciting destinations within easier reach for U.S. travelers seeking culture, adventure, or simply a change of scenery.
Starting October 26, United will become the only U.S. airline to operate daily flights to Bangkok, Thailand, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. These flights will depart from Hong Kong and are timed to connect seamlessly with flights arriving from across North America. Operated by Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, these new routes offer passengers a modern, comfortable way to access two of Southeast Asia’s most dynamic cities.
Travelers heading to Bangkok can look forward to a blend of ancient temples and buzzing street life. From the majestic Wat Phra Kaew to the scenic Chao Phraya River, the city offers endless sights and experiences. Food lovers can indulge in local delicacies like mango sticky rice or explore the night markets, while cultural enthusiasts can enjoy a ride through the historic quarters in a traditional tuk-tuk.
In Ho Chi Minh City, visitors will find French colonial architecture, vibrant markets, and a food scene that’s both authentic and diverse. With everything from pho served at roadside stalls to innovative microbreweries, the city offers a fresh take on Vietnamese tradition. Notable landmarks like the Saigon Opera House and Notre-Dame Basilica showcase the city’s rich history and charm.
Further south, United will launch the first nonstop flights between the U.S. and Adelaide, Australia. Beginning December 11, the three-times-weekly seasonal service from San Francisco to Adelaide will offer American travelers direct access to South Australia’s capital just in time for the region’s summer season. This new route makes United the only airline to connect the U.S. directly with four major Australian cities—Sydney, Melbourne, Brisbane, and now Adelaide.
Adelaide is known for its relaxed lifestyle, wine country, and fresh produce. From exploring the world-renowned Barossa Valley and McLaren Vale vineyards to wandering the Adelaide Central Market or visiting Kangaroo Island’s wildlife-rich landscapes, there’s something for every type of traveler. The route is expected to appeal not only to tourists escaping the U.S. winter but also to business travelers and Australians visiting family in the States.
In addition to launching new routes, United is enhancing its service to the Philippines. On October 25, the airline will add a second daily flight between San Francisco and Manila. Operated on a Boeing 777-300ER, this additional frequency will offer travelers more flexibility with both daytime and evening options. United remains the only U.S. airline to fly to the Philippines, serving both Manila and Cebu.
Manila offers travelers a rich mix of history, cuisine, and culture. Whether it’s visiting the centuries-old San Agustin Church, exploring the walled city of Intramuros, sampling street food like turon and halo-halo, or taking a trip to see the Taal Volcano in Tagaytay, Manila offers diverse experiences for both new and returning visitors.
With these new additions, United now offers service to 32 cities in the Pacific region—four times more than any other U.S. carrier. This growth supports United’s continued goal of being the world’s most connected airline, bringing people to more destinations with fewer stops. According to the airline, it carried more than six million passengers in the Pacific region last year alone.
Tickets for Adelaide and the second Manila flight are available now on United.com and the United app. Flights to Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City will be available for booking soon, subject to government approval. All new services reflect United’s investment in expanding global access and making international travel more convenient for millions of people across North America.
Have you been dreaming about Asia or Australia? With these new nonstop options from United, it may be time to pack your bags. Let us know where you’re headed first in the comments below!
