United Airlines is a major legacy airline based out of Chicago, Illinois.
They are one of the largest airlines in the world, flying to well over 300 destinations on 6 of Earth’s continents.
In this guide, we’ll examine the long history of the airline, some of the aircraft it flies, provide insight into United’s passenger classes, the destinations the airline flies to, and much more.
History of United Airlines
How United Airlines Got Started?
United Airlines like most United States legacy airlines got its start by being a mail delivery airline. It was started by William Boeing, owner of Boeing Aircraft in 1919, and completed its first flights to round out the 1910s.
He renamed the company to United Aircraft Corp in 1928 and completed a set of mergers with other airlines. Thanks to these new additions, Boeing renamed the airline again to United Airlines and Transport Corporation. He then acquired more passenger service airlines in 1930 and established the corporation, United Air Lines, Inc.
With these acquisitions, United was able to perform both mail delivery as well as passenger service all over the United States. The first routes were typically intercity mail routes.
Flights from New York to Chicago were common as well as flights from Chicago to San Francisco. These early destinations formed the foundation of the airline and many are the main hubs that United still operates out of to this day.
National Growth and Route Expansion
United Airlines began flying the Boeing 247 in 1933 which allowed the airline to fly passengers coast to coast without having to stop to change planes. The onset of World War 2 forced United to handle the bulk of continental air traffic.
The technology developed during the war like pressurized aircraft cabins was implemented post-war on United Aircraft allowing them to fly higher over any bad weather, making passenger aviation less risky and more comfortable for the customers.
United merged with Capital Airlines in 1961 to supersede American Airlines as the largest airline in North America. The airline’s route network increased largely thanks to innovations in the Jet Age. United began operating the long-distance capable, Boeing 747 in 1970 as well as the McDonnell DC-10. Both of these aircraft have the range to fly transcontinentally across oceans without having to stop.
Continued Growth Into The New Millenium
The 1980s ushered in exciting times for United Airlines. They were the launch partner of Boeing 767. In response to American Airlines releasing it’s first frequent flyer program AA Advantage, United also came out with their own program to reward frequent flyers, Mileage Plus.
United also became the first airline to provide service to all 50 states in America.
However, the highlight of the 1980s was the purchase of Pan American Airways Pacific flight operations. They purchase much of Pan America’s Pacific fleet including more Boeing 747SPs, flight crews, and ultimately the routes themselves. That added 13 more destinations in the Pacific that United Airlines was then flying to.
In the 1990s, United made efforts to modernize its aircraft fleets and business offerings. They were the launch partner of the ultra-long-range Boeing 777. They also introduced the first-ever airline alliance called “Star Alliance”. Star Alliance allowed passengers flight access all over the world through partner airlines.
September 11th and Trouble Times for United
United Airlines Flight 93 and United Airlines Flight 175 were 2 out of the 4 aircraft hijacked on September 11th, 2001. These attacks led to less demand for air travel along with the rise in world oil costs, United Airlines began to have issues with their profit margin.
The company had to file for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in 2002. Workers had to be furloughed, ticket offices closed, and routes had to be reduced in order for the airline to get its head above water.
The 2003 SAR’s epidemic greatly lessened the demand for Pacific travel, which United was very much invested in. Many business decisions had to be made before the airline finally got out of bankruptcy protection in 2006.
2010 and On
In 2010, United Airlines made efforts to merge with Continental Airlines creating the world’s largest airline. That merger went into effect in 2013. This greatly expanded the number of aircraft in its fleet.
United Airlines continued to grow until the 2020 COVID-19 pandemic which incorporated rounds of employee layoffs and reductions in flight operations, however, they were the only airline not to retire any of their older aircraft.
That would be changed in 2021 when the airline announced its largest aircraft purchase order to modernize its aging fleet with brand-new Boeing and Airbus aircraft.
Quick Facts About United Airlines
Year Founded: 1926
Years of Operation: 96 years
Airline Type: Major
Call Sign: UNITED
Website: https://united.com/
Facts about the United Airlines Fleet
United Airlines has a total of 868 aircraft currently in service. The three most common aircraft being flown today by United Airlines are the Boeing 737, Airbus A320, and the Boeing 777. The oldest aircraft in the fleet are its Boeing 767s and Boeing 757s, each approaching 25+ years in service for the airline.
Boeing 737-800
The 737-800 is a popular narrow-body jetliner that is designed for short to medium-haul flights. It can seat up to 189 passengers and has a range of over 3,000 miles.
Airbus A320-200
The A320-200 is a popular narrow-body jetliner designed for short to medium-haul flights. It can seat up to 180 passengers and has a range of over 3,000 miles.
United Airlines Boeing 777
The Boeing 777 is a state-of-the-art ultra-long-range widebody aircraft. It can seat 300+ passengers and fly them to destinations close to 9000 miles away.
United’s Passenger Classes
United First
United First Class offers passengers an enhanced flying experience with spacious seats, delicious meals, and premium service. Travelers in United First enjoy priority boarding and access to exclusive airport lounges, making their journey more comfortable and convenient.
United Polaris
United Polaris Class is designed for long-haul international flights, providing passengers with lie-flat seats for a restful sleep in the sky. With gourmet dining options and luxurious amenities, United Polaris ensures a high level of comfort and privacy, making international travel a true pleasure.
Economy Plus
Economy Plus is a great option for those looking for extra legroom and comfort without the premium price. Passengers in Economy Plus seats enjoy more space to stretch out, making long flights more relaxing, and they can board the plane sooner, avoiding the rush.
Basic Economy
Basic Economy is a budget-friendly choice for travelers who want to save on airfare. While it offers the essentials of air travel, such as a seat and access to in-flight services, it may have limitations like restricted seat selection and carry-on baggage. Basic Economy is a good option for cost-conscious passengers looking for a no-frills flying experience.
United Airlines Flights Routes and Operations
United Airlines currently flies to 342 destinations around the world.
In 2022, United Airlines safely flew 63,201,495 passengers to their goals.
United Airlines Hubs and Focus Cities
United Airlines utilizes the following locations as its hub or focus cities.
- Chicago–O’Hare (KORD)
- Denver (KDEN)
- Guam
- Houston–Intercontinental (KIAH)
- Los Angeles (KLAX)
- Newark (KEWR)
- San Francisco (KSFO)
- Washington–Dulles (KIAD)
United’s Most Popular Flight Destinations
The following routes are United Airlines’ most popular routes. These particular routes are flown the most times per day due to customer demand.
- Chicago (KORD) to Newark (KEWR)
- Houston (KIAH) to Denver (KDEN)
- Chicago (KORD) to San Francisco (KSFO)
- Newark (KEWR) to Denver (KDEN)
- Houston (KIAH) to Chicago (KORD)
- Chicago (KORD) to Denver (KDEN)
- Houston (KIAH) to Newark (KEWR)
- Houston (KIAH) to Los Angeles (KLAX)
- Chicago (KORD) to Washington D.C. (KIAD)
- Orlando (KMCO) to Newark (KEWR)
United’s On-Time Performance
United Airlines reported flights being on time 77.74% of the time.
Is United a Safe Airline to Fly On?
United Airlines, like many major airlines, prioritizes safety as its top concern. The airline has a strong safety record, and it adheres to strict regulations and guidelines set by aviation authorities to ensure the safety of its passengers.
United Airlines conducts rigorous maintenance checks on its aircraft, employs well-trained pilots, and invests in the latest technology to enhance safety during flights. These measures contribute to United Airlines being considered a safe choice for air travel.
United Airlines also has a comprehensive safety program that includes regular safety training for its staff, emergency response procedures, and a commitment to continuous improvement. The airline’s pilots and cabin crew undergo extensive training to handle various situations that may arise during a flight, ensuring they are well-prepared to respond to emergencies.
Additionally, United Airlines has a strong safety culture that encourages employees at all levels to prioritize safety above all else, further enhancing the airline’s reputation for safety.
While no airline can completely eliminate the risks associated with air travel, United Airlines’ dedication to safety, its adherence to industry standards, and its commitment to ongoing training and improvement make it a generally safe choice for passengers. Travelers can take comfort in the fact that United Airlines places a high emphasis on ensuring their safety throughout their journey.
Sources
https://www.flightconnections.com/route-map-united-airlines-ua
