United Airlines has announced its international travel schedule for summer 2026, focusing on new nonstop flights to smaller European cities. The expansion includes new routes from its Newark Liberty International Airport hub to Split, Croatia; Bari, Italy; and Santiago de Compostela, Spain. This strategy aims to attract high-spending travelers seeking less common European destinations.
Key Takeaways
- United Airlines is adding three new European routes for summer 2026.
- New destinations include Split (Croatia), Bari (Italy), and Santiago de Compostela (Spain).
- Flights will originate from Newark Liberty International Airport.
- The airline is also adding new flights to Reykjavik, Iceland, and Seoul, South Korea.
- United's strategy targets travelers seeking direct access to smaller, high-demand locations.
New European Destinations for Summer 2026
United Airlines will begin new service to several European locations in spring 2026. These additions highlight the airline's focus on connecting major U.S. hubs with unique international cities. The flights are designed to offer more direct options for travelers.
Starting April 30, United will launch a nonstop flight from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Split, Croatia. This marks the airline's second destination in Croatia. Split is a coastal city known for its historic sites and access to the Adriatic Sea.
A day later, on May 1, service will begin from Newark to Bari, Italy. Bari is located in the Puglia region of southern Italy, a popular area on the Adriatic coast. This route provides direct access to a region known for its cultural heritage and scenic beauty.
Traveler Trend
Industry data indicates a growing demand for direct flights to secondary European cities. Travelers often prefer avoiding connections in large, busy hubs, especially for leisure trips. United's new routes align with this preference.
On May 22, United will introduce nonstop flights from Newark to Santiago de Compostela in Spain. This city is famous as the endpoint of the Camino de Santiago pilgrimage trail, located in the Galicia region. This route caters to both pilgrims and tourists interested in the area's history and culture.
"Our focus remains on providing travelers with direct access to destinations they truly want to explore, beyond the traditional major capitals," said Patrick Quayle, United’s senior vice president of global network planning and alliances. "These new routes reflect that commitment."
Expanding International Network and Competition
United Airlines is working to expand its international network. This strategy aims to increase customer loyalty and encourage sign-ups for its travel rewards credit cards. Many of the new routes will use aircraft equipped with the airline's lie-flat Polaris cabin, appealing to premium travelers.
The airline is competing with other major carriers, such as Delta Air Lines, for high-spending customers. Delta also recently announced new nonstop flights to Malta and Sardinia, Italy, for summer 2026, indicating a similar market focus.
What is Polaris?
United Polaris business class offers a premium travel experience. It includes lie-flat seats, upgraded dining, and lounge access. This product is designed for long-haul international flights to provide enhanced comfort.
Beyond Europe, United is also adding other key international services. On May 21, a new nonstop flight will launch from Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Reykjavik, Iceland. This route offers another connection to a popular North Atlantic destination.
Additionally, United will begin daily, year-round nonstop service from Newark to Seoul, South Korea, starting next September. This significantly boosts its presence in the Asian market.
Additional Routes and Continued Service
United's summer 2026 plans also include a new flight from Newark to Glasgow, Scotland. This service will start on May 8 and will be operated by a Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft. This adds another option for travelers to the United Kingdom.
- Newark to Split, Croatia: Starts April 30, 2026
- Newark to Bari, Italy: Starts May 1, 2026
- Newark to Santiago de Compostela, Spain: Starts May 22, 2026
- Washington Dulles to Reykjavik, Iceland: Starts May 21, 2026
- Newark to Glasgow, Scotland: Starts May 8, 2026
- Newark to Seoul, South Korea: Starts September 2026 (daily, year-round)
According to Patrick Quayle, destinations announced last year, such as Nuuk, Greenland, will continue to be part of the airline's schedule for 2026. This shows a consistent strategy of maintaining service to unique, emerging destinations.
Furthermore, United plans to increase its service to Tel Aviv. A third daily flight from Newark to Tel Aviv will begin on March 28, 2026. This expansion reflects ongoing demand for travel to the region.
Aircraft Utilization
Many of United's new long-haul international routes are operated by aircraft featuring its Polaris business class. This includes Boeing 787 Dreamliners and Boeing 777s, which offer greater range and passenger comfort for extended flights.
The airline's focus on smaller, culturally rich European cities provides travelers with more direct access to diverse experiences. This shift away from solely major hubs offers convenience and opens up new travel possibilities for consumers looking for unique vacations.
United's strategy also aims to capture a segment of the market that prioritizes direct flights and premium cabin experiences. The addition of these routes strengthens its global network and competitive position in the international travel sector.
