United Airlines announced its largest-ever international network expansion from its San Francisco (SFO) hub. The plan introduces new year-round flights to Toronto (YYZ) and Melbourne (MEL), seasonal service to New Delhi (DEL), and a second daily frequency to Seoul (ICN).
United says this expansion strengthens San Francisco’s role as a primary gateway to destinations across the Pacific, throughout the continental United States and to Europe. The airline noted the growth reflects broader operational and financial momentum achieved in recent years.
Oscar Munoz, CEO of United, described the network additions as a culmination of the airline’s efforts to improve performance and reliability, saying the expanded schedule highlights San Francisco’s strategic importance for connecting travelers to global markets.
Janet Lamkin, United’s president for California, emphasized the local benefits: the new routes provide more travel choices for Bay Area customers, support business and leisure travel, and demonstrate United’s ongoing commitment to expand international options from San Francisco.
Service details and aircraft types include:
- Toronto (YYZ) — Year-round service starting March 31, 2019, operated with a Boeing 737-800.
- Melbourne (MEL) — Year-round service starting October 29, 2019, operated with a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.
- New Delhi (DEL) — Seasonal service launching in December 2019.
- Seoul (ICN) — A second daily flight beginning April 1, 2019, offered four times weekly on a Boeing 777-200ER.
These additions expand United’s connectivity from SFO, offering passengers increased frequency and new nonstop international options. The mix of narrowbody and widebody aircraft aligns capacity with expected demand on each market, while seasonal timing for New Delhi responds to peak travel periods.
Overall, the announcement represents a significant expansion of United’s long-haul offerings from the Bay Area, adding meaningful options for both business and leisure travelers and reinforcing San Francisco’s status as a key international hub for the carrier.