United Airlines launches new NZ route
United Airlines will be returning to the NZ market, introducing nonstop flights between Auckland and San Francisco from July 3 2016.
Subject to government approval, United will deploy its Boeing 787 Dreamliner to operate the flights, with the service initially operating three times a weekly with the 787-8 aircraft.
From October 30 2016, the service will operate daily with the larger-capacity 787-9 aircraft.
“We’re very excited about adding Auckland to our industry-leading global route network and offering our New Zealand customers nonstop service to the U.S.,” United’s vice chairman and chief revenue officer Jim Compton said.
“Customers will not only be able to fly with United direct to one of America’s most popular business and tourism destinations, they’ll also benefit from seamless onward connections via our San Francisco hub to cities throughout the U.S., Canada, Mexico and Central/South America.”
The flights will be operated in coordination with United’s Star Alliance partner Air New Zealand. United and Air New Zealand have a long-standing partnership and will continue to work together to promote and serve the New Zealand-U.S. market.
Air New Zealand chief executive officer Christopher Luxon says United Airlines has supported Air New Zealand in launching its new Auckland – Houston service and today’s announcement is another important step in expanding the partnership.
“United Airlines’ return to the New Zealand market will be great for travelers in both directions, and will provide a welcome boost to tourism in New Zealand,” he said.
“We know there are more than 30 million Americans actively considering New Zealand as a holiday destination. To have a partner carrier with a network like United Airlines promoting destination New Zealand and attracting visitors through its immense sales and distribution channels will provide a significant boost to inbound tourism.”
The flights will be available for booking on October 17, 2015. United customers in New Zealand will be able to book flights by visiting united.com or contacting United reservations on 0800-747-400.
Air New Zealand also currently operates a daily service from Auckland to San Francisco.
The Boeing 787-8 aircraft features a total of 219 seats in two cabins; 36 in United BusinessFirst, with seats arranged in a 2-2-2 configuration, and 183 in United Economy, including 70 Economy Plus seats with added legroom and increased personal space.
The 787-9 features a total of 252 seats – 48 in United BusinessFirst and 204 in United Economy, including 88 Economy Plus seats.
The 787 Dreamliner is revolutionizing the flying experience for United customers and crews while delivering unprecedented operating efficiency, comfort and lower emissions. Customers experience greater comfort with improved lighting, bigger windows, larger overhead bins, lower cabin altitude and enhanced ventilation systems, among other passenger-friendly features.
Email the Travel Weekly team at traveldesk@travelweekly.com.au
air new zealand america auckland new zealand san francisco san francisco international airport united airlinesLatest News
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