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United Airlines, commonly known as United, is the world’s third largest airline by revenue and fleet size, and one of the founding members of Star Alliance. In 2010, the airline acquired Continental Airlines, then the third largest airlines in the country. United operates out of nine hub airports, of which Houston Intercontinental, the former Continental Airlines principle base, is the largest. Other major hubs include Chicago O’Hare, Newark and Denver.

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This interactive map shows where you can (or can’t) travel in the US

Sep 10, 2020 • 2 min read

United has created an interactive travel map of the US © 10'000 Hours/Getty Images

In an effort to make traveling easier, United Airlines has developed an interactive map tool that allows customers to filter and view destinations' COVID-19 -related travel restrictions in the US . The Destination Travel Guide provides a color-coded map to highlight if a destination is closed, partially open or fully open for travel, and notes if tests or self-quarantining are required for travel.

TSA is trialing facial recognition checkpoints at airports

The guide currently highlights travel restrictions and leisure offerings in the US by state, and will expand to include all international destinations the airline serves in the coming weeks. Users can click on each state to view local regulations and travel guidances, and there is also the option to filter the map by state to view specific information on each destination. This information includes the medical certificate needed, such as a negative COVID-19 test, physical distancing measures and whether wearing a mask in public is required. It also outlines the visitor accommodation, restaurants, bars and cafés, museum and heritage sites and non-essential shops that are open.

"We know it's a challenge to keep up with the ever-changing list of travel restrictions, policies and regulations so we are offering a simple, easy tool that helps customers decide where to travel next," said Linda Jojo, executive vice president for technology and chief digital officer. "By providing the most up-to-date information on the destinations we serve, customers can compare and shop for travel with greater confidence and help them find the destinations that best fit their preferences.

Check out the new interactive map tool on United.com here or on the United mobile app.

Lockdowns are easing globally as the planet adjusts to a new normal. Find out how COVID-19 is changing travel.

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United Airlines Direct & Nonstop Destinations

United Airlines is one of the largest and most popular airlines in the world, offering a wide range of direct and nonstop flights to various destinations across the globe. Whether you're planning a business trip or a vacation, United Airlines has got you covered.

One of the top destinations served by United Airlines is New York City. With multiple daily nonstop flights from major cities like Los Angeles, Chicago, and San Francisco, United Airlines makes it easy for travelers to visit the Big Apple. Whether you're interested in exploring Times Square, visiting the Statue of Liberty, or catching a Broadway show, United Airlines can get you there.

Another popular destination served by United Airlines is London. With daily nonstop flights from cities like New York, Chicago, and San Francisco, United Airlines allows travelers to easily reach the capital of the United Kingdom. Whether you're interested in exploring the historical landmarks, shopping on Oxford Street, or experiencing the vibrant nightlife, United Airlines can take you to London.

Airport & Airline Tips and Resources

Check here to get details on airports that United Airlines operates from, such as terminals used, baggage claim, check-in, and more.

If you need to see all of the UA flights departures (or arrivals) for a specific airport, use the Flight Status widget on this page, select your airport, and you’ll be presented with a list of flights and their full details.

Traveler’s Guide to Flights , you can learn about commercial flights, the flight booking process, how (and why) flight numbers are selected and retired, as well as insights into air traffic control and who the world’s governing bodies are for commercial aviation (like the FAA in the USA).

For those looking for a tropical getaway, United Airlines offers nonstop flights to destinations like Honolulu, Cancun, and Punta Cana. Whether you're dreaming of relaxing on the beautiful beaches of Hawaii, exploring the ancient ruins of Mexico, or enjoying the crystal-clear waters of the Dominican Republic, United Airlines can make your tropical vacation a reality.

If you're a nature lover, United Airlines also offers nonstop flights to destinations like Denver, Seattle, and Anchorage. Whether you're interested in hiking in the Rocky Mountains, exploring the natural beauty of the Pacific Northwest, or experiencing the wilderness of Alaska, United Airlines can take you to these amazing destinations.

These are just a few examples of the many direct and nonstop flights offered by United Airlines. With a comprehensive network of destinations, convenient flight schedules, and excellent customer service, United Airlines is a popular choice for travelers around the world.

Get the status of any United Airlines flight here .

For more detailed information about United Airlines flights, check out our flight guide .

Find more help here for your journey through the airport

United’s Interactive Map Search Now Includes Award Travel

Award space now visible on united airlines’ interactive map search tool.

Last year, United Airlines introduced its interactive map for revenue flights. Powered by Google Flight Search, it allowed for filters including budget and travel interests.

Travel interest filters include:

• Beer & breweries
• Food & drink
• National parks
• Skiing & snowboarding
• Snorkeling & scuba
• America, who knew?

I was curious about the last one and filtered by “America, who knew?”. Destinations included:

• Albuquerque (ABQ)
• Bozeman (BZN)
• Charlotte (CLT)
• Chicago (ORD)
• Cleveland (CLE)
• Jackson Hole (JAC)
• Orlando (MCO)
• Portland, Oregon (PDX)

A United spokesperson told me:

“After a long period of not traveling for many of our customers, we understand many members are sitting on accounts with lots of miles and we want to help them find memorable ways to use those miles. United is expanding travel options for MileagePlus members to benefit how, where and when members use miles this summer and beyond.”

The tool is only valid for United or United Express-operated flights. While still a helpful tool, I’d love to see the tool expand to include MileagePlus partners as well. It would also be great to be able to filter by cabin class of service. The current tool only supports economy class (“cheapest”) searches (except in the rare cases where the price of business class is less than the price of economy class, which does occasionally happen).

Specifically, I’d love to be able to input a destination, choose nonstop flights only, and quickly see nonstop premium space for the next 12 months…that would truly be a powerful tool.

Still, the new tool helped me see the cheapest fares (I always search by one-way, but you can search by one-way or round-trip) to Latin America and to Europe, which I like to keep an eye on as I eye future family travel (Europe) and work toward visiting every country in the world.

United’s interactive airfare search tool now includes both revenue and award space. Use this tool to see how far your miles will take you, but don’t stop there – remember, it will not show partner award space, which is often the smartest way to use your miles.

You can check out the map here .

About Author

Matthew Klint

Matthew is an avid traveler who calls Los Angeles home. Each year he travels more than 200,000 miles by air and has visited more than 135 countries. Working both in the aviation industry and as a travel consultant, Matthew has been featured in major media outlets around the world and uses his Live and Let's Fly blog to share the latest news in the airline industry, commentary on frequent flyer programs, and detailed reports of his worldwide travel.

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United Airlines plane engine reportedly catches fire before takeoff in Chicago

A reported engine fire on a United Airlines plane temporarily halted arrivals at one of the nation’s busiest airports on Memorial Day.

United Flight 2901 was heading from Chicago O’Hare International Airport to Seattle-Tacoma International Airport Monday when the fire was reported at about 2 p.m. CT, according to preliminary findings from the Federal Aviation Administration.

Chicago-based United Airlines confirmed there was “an issue with the engine, which our local ground crew and emergency responders immediately addressed.”

“The Airbus A320 was towed to the gate where passengers safely deplaned,” said the FAA, which halted flights into ORD for about 45 minutes.

Yes, turbulence is getting worse, but deaths are very rare: What to know

United added that passengers deplaned normally and no injuries were reported, though the aircraft was met by both fire and medical personnel “out of an abundance of caution.”

There were 148 passengers and 5 crew members on board, according to the airline, which was working on making travel arrangements for impacted customers.

One in four flights into O’Hare was delayed Monday, according to FlightAware , which tracks airline traffic

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Washington dc’s newest direct flight makes travel to this famous desert winter escape easy.

P alm Springs has been one of California’s most prominent desert getaways for celebrities, art lovers, wellness seekers, and more for nearly a century. Summers are obviously hot, but it’s easy to understand why the mild winters make Greater Palm Springs an ideal place to spend the holidays — whether you live in a place with rough winters or not. Travelers coming from Washington DC and the Mid-Atlantic area now have easier access to that winter desert sun and fresh air thanks to a new non-stop flight with United Airlines.

From December 19 through April 30, 2025, United will operate one daily flight between Palm Springs International Airport and Washington Dulles International Airport.

“This new route offers a convenient and seamless travel option for our visitors from the East Coast, making it easier than ever to experience the natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality of Greater Palm Springs,” Scott White, president and CEO of Visit Greater Palm Springs, said in a press release . “We look forward to providing our new guests with an unforgettable desert oasis experience.”

The flight will be the first connecting the nation’s capital to Palm Springs. Not only is it a boon for East Coast travelers, but also opens the door for European travelers looking for an easy connection to the Coachella Valley and it’s incredible hiking trails and Palm Springs restaurants .

Traveling to Palm Springs? Check out Matador’s accommodations guides to the area: The 9 Best Palm Springs Airbnbs for a Bachelorette Party To Remember Get The Most Out of Palm Springs At These Guest Favorite Airbnbs 8 Gorgeous Palm Springs Airbnbs With Private Pools Guests Enter This Palm Desert Hotel Via a Gorgeous Gondola Ride The Most Iconic Boutique Hotels in Palm Springs

The route will be served by United’s Boeing Max 8 planes, leaving from DC at 9 AM and arriving in Palm Springs at 11:40 AM, and leaving from Palm Springs at 1 PM and arriving in DC at 8:45 PM. Flights are currently on sale for those who like to book their travel early. The new route joins five other cities with direct daily United flights to Palm Springs:

• San Francisco
• Los Angeles

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United Airlines Just Added a New Cross-country Route to This Desert Hot Spot

Travelers in the D.C. area have one more place to escape to in winter.

DenisTangneyJr/Getty Images

United will launch an exciting new cross-country route out of Palm Springs this upcoming winter, bringing its first-ever East Coast connection to the California city.

On December 19, the airline will debut a once-daily service between Washington-Dulles International Airport and Palm Springs International Airport. This winter seasonal flight will run through April 30, 2025, with the following schedule:

• Washington, D.C. (IAD) to Palm Springs (PSP): 9 a.m. to 11:40 a.m.
• Palm Springs (PSP) to Washington, D.C. (IAD): 1 p.m. to 8:45 p.m.

The flight will be roughly five and a half hours long and operated on a Boeing 737 MAX-8 aircraft with 16 first-class recliner seats and 150 economy seats.  

“This service will be the first connection ever between Washington, D.C. and Palm Springs and create unparalleled access to Palm Springs from the East Coast and Europe through one of United’s fastest growing hubs,” said United’s Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances, Patrick Quayle, in a statement. “We pride ourselves in offering unique, world-class destinations and are excited to offer our customers more service to beautiful Greater Palm Springs.”

Travelers can book the new flight on United’s website or app. This winter, United will offer flights to Palm Springs from a total of six cities: Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, San Francisco, and now, Washington, D.C. 

United has an extensive seasonal network, offering flights to popular destinations during peak travel times. The airline just kicked off summer seasonal service to Anchorage from its Washington-Dulles hub and will offer flights to popular ski destinations this winter, including Bozeman, Montana, Kalispell, Montana, and Jackson Hole, Wyoming.

The news comes as United has launched a few new promotions for its frequent flier members, including the ability to buy miles with a 100% bonus. 

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United's latest cross-country route a big win for both Washington, DC, and Palm Springs

United Airlines is going long from its Dulles International Airport (IAD) hub near Washington, D.C.

This week, the carrier unveiled new nonstop flights from IAD to Palm Springs International Airport (PSP) in California. United will operate one daily flight on this new 2,188-mile route starting Dec. 19. This new seasonal winter service will run through April 30, 2025.

This will be United's longest flight to Palm Springs, joining existing service from five other U.S. cities, including Chicago, Denver, Houston, San Francisco and Los Angeles.

In fact, the options will become the first-ever nonstop route between the D.C. metro area and Palm Springs. United says this new transcontinental route will be supported by both origin and destination demand and one-stop connections for travelers looking to explore destinations beyond Dulles.

"This service will be the first-ever connection between Washington, D.C., and Palm Springs and create unparalleled access to Palm Springs from the East Coast and Europe through one of United's fastest-growing hubs. We pride ourselves in offering unique, world-class destinations and are excited to offer our customers more service to beautiful Greater Palm Springs," said Patrick Quayle, United's senior vice president of global network planning and alliances, in a statement .

The new flight will depart Dulles at 9 a.m. EST and arrive on the West Coast at 11:40 a.m. PST. It'll turn around at 1 p.m. PST and land back at Dulles at 8:45 p.m. EST. United will deploy a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft on this new route, featuring the carrier's new signature interior , as well as 16 first-class recliners, 54 Economy Plus extra-legroom seats and 96 standard economy seats.

United will enjoy a monopoly on this new nonstop route. It remains to be seen how this new seasonal service will fare, especially considering that there were just 16 daily passengers on average flying between IAD and PSP during 2023, Department of Transportation data analyzed by Cirium shows.

Meanwhile, there were, on average, 34 daily passengers flying from D.C.'s more convenient Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) to PSP in 2023, so perhaps United thinks it can convince all the flyers headed to and from the D.C. metro area to choose this new nonstop flight. Most flights from DCA are limited in length by a perimeter rule .

(Of course, every itinerary from D.C. to Palm Springs last year involved a connection, so by pulling out all the stops, United may be able to stimulate some additional demand. Plus, some travelers may have opted for nonstop flights to Los Angeles and then drove about four hours to Palm Springs.)

From its midcentury modern architecture to its thriving cultural and dining scenes, Palm Springs has proven to be a popular destination in winter. And now, there's a never-before-operated way to get there.

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• United Premier status: What it is and how to earn it
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• How to survive basic economy on United Airlines

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Did You Make Your Connecting Flight? You May Have A.I. to Thank.

Airlines are using artificial intelligence to save fuel, keep customers informed and hold connecting flights for delayed passengers. Here’s what to expect.

By Julie Weed

Last month in Chicago, a United Airlines flight to London was ready to depart, but it was still waiting for 13 passengers connecting from Costa Rica. The airline projected they’d miss the flight by seven minutes. Under normal circumstances, they’d all be scrambling to rebook.

But thanks to a new artificial-intelligence-powered tool called ConnectionSaver, the jet was able to wait for them — their checked bags, too — and still arrive in London on time. The system also sent text messages to the late-arriving passengers and the people on the waiting jet to explain what was happening.

A.I. still might not be able to find space for your carry-on, but it could help put an end to the 40-gate dash — sprinting to catch your connecting flight before the door slams shut — as well as other common travel headaches.

It’s not just United. Alaska Airlines , American Airlines and others have been working to develop new A.I. capabilities that could make flying easier for passengers. The carriers are also using the technology to reduce costs and streamline operations, including saving fuel, said Helane Becker, an airline industry analyst for the investment bank TD Cowen . Although many of the airlines are developing their programs independently, a successful innovation by any carrier could possibly become an industry standard.

A.I. is poised to change almost every aspect of the customer flying experience, from baggage tracking to personalized in-flight entertainment, said Jitender Mohan, who works with travel and hospitality clients at the technology consulting company WNS .

Saving fuel and frustration

A.I. has been helping Alaska Airlines dispatchers plan more efficient routes since 2021. “It’s like Google maps, but in the air,” explained Vikram Baskaran, vice president for information technology services at the carrier.

Two hours before a flight, the system reviews weather conditions, any airspace that will be closed, and all commercial and private flight plans registered with the Federal Aviation Administration, to suggest the most efficient route. The A.I. takes in “an amount of information no human brain could process,” said Pasha Saleh, the corporate development director and a pilot for Alaska.

In 2023, about 25 percent of Alaska flights used this system to shave a few minutes off flight times. Those efficiencies added up to about 41,000 minutes of flying time and half a million gallons of fuel saved, Mr. Baskaran said.

On the ground, American Airlines and others are working on an A.I.-powered system American calls Smart Gating — sending arriving aircraft to the nearest available gate with the shortest taxiing time, and if the scheduled arrival gate is in use, quickly determining the best alternate gate. All this could mean fewer frustrating minutes spent waiting on the tarmac.

American introduced Smart Gating at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport in 2021 and now employs it at six airports, including Chicago O’Hare and Miami International. The airline estimates it saves 17 hours a day in taxi time and 1.4 million gallons of jet fuel a year.

Mr. Mohan said that using A.I. as a virtual parking attendant could save up to 20 percent of taxiing time, with the highest benefits seen at the largest airports.

Faster and better customer service

Rapidly evolving generative A.I. — think ChatGPT — is helping airlines communicate with passengers better. At United, a companywide challenge last year yielded a plan to make texts sent to fliers more specific about what’s causing delays. Passengers can get frustrated when flights are delayed with no explanation, said Jason Birnbaum, United’s chief information officer.

But tracking the details required, composing an appropriate message and sending it to the right people for 5,000 flights a day would be too much for the staff to handle, Mr. Birnbaum said. Generative A.I. can process all that data and create messages tailored to conditions. For example, passengers booked on a January United flight from San Francisco to Tucson received this text message, along with a new departure time and an apology: “Your inbound aircraft is arriving late due to airport runway construction in San Francisco that limited the number of arrivals and departures for all airlines earlier.”

Having a more detailed explanation can calm travelers’ nerves. Jamie Larounis, a travel industry analyst who flies about 150,000 miles a year, recalled receiving text messages last summer explaining that a storm and a related crew-scheduling problem had delayed his flight from Chicago. “Getting a specific reason for the delay made me feel like the airline had things under control,” he said.

Generative A.I. is also good at summarizing text, making it a powerful tool for wading through emails. Last year, Alaska was among the carriers that began using A.I. to handle customer messages more efficiently. The airline’s system “reads” each email and summarizes the issues raised.

“We used to read first in first out, handling the requests as they came in,” said Mr. Baskaran, but now the system helps prioritize emails. For example, an urgent request involving an upcoming flight may take precedence over a complaint about a past one.

The system also helps a human agent decide how to respond, such as offering the customer a voucher, and it may draft an initial written response. “The person makes the decision, but it’s streamlined,” Mr. Baskaran said.

For all the benefits A.I. promises to airlines and passengers, the technology still has some shortcomings. For one, it doesn’t always deliver accurate information. In 2022, an Air Canada chatbot incorrectly promised a traveler that if he booked a full-fare flight to a relative’s funeral, he could receive a bereavement fare after the fact. When he filed a small-claims case, Air Canada tried to argue that the bot was its own separate entity, “responsible for its own actions,” but a tribunal found Air Canada responsible and ordered it to pay about $800 in damages and fees.

Still, as A.I. develops and airlines race to find more uses for it, passengers could see even more benefits. “As a customer and a business person, this is one of the biggest technology disruptions in the last five to eight years,” Mr. Mohan said.

Follow New York Times Travel on Instagram and sign up for our weekly Travel Dispatch newsletter to get expert tips on traveling smarter and inspiration for your next vacation. Dreaming up a future getaway or just armchair traveling? Check out our 52 Places to Go in 2024 .

An earlier version of this article, in a quotation from Vikram Baskaran, vice president for information technology services at Alaska Airlines, misstated the number of gallons of fuel an artificial-intelligence-powered planning system saved the airline in 2023. It was half a million, not half a billion.

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