Tickets to paradise are now on sale.
United Airlines announced it will begin seasonal service between San Francisco (SFO) and Papeete (PPT), the capital of Tahiti and the South Pacific gateway to more than 118 islands in French Polynesia. The new route launches October 31 and will operate through March 28, 2019.
United is the only U.S. carrier offering nonstop flights to Tahiti from the mainland United States.
“We are excited to announce Tahiti as our 13th new international route this year, and we are even more thrilled about offering our customers a whole new world of vacation opportunities,” said Patrick Quayle, vice president of international network at United. “We know our customers want more destinations to choose from to escape the winter weather, and we look forward to being the airline that connects them to this corner of paradise.”
Service will operate three times weekly on Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday. Flights depart San Francisco at 2:45 p.m. and arrive in Papeete at 9:25 p.m. The return departs Papeete at 11:45 p.m., arriving back in San Francisco at 9:50 a.m. the following day. A Boeing 787 Dreamliner will be used on the route.
This seasonal link provides travelers on the U.S. West Coast with direct access to Tahiti’s beaches, lagoons and cultural experiences without a connection. The nonstop schedule and Dreamliner cabin aim to make long-haul travel more comfortable for vacationers seeking tropical weather during the winter months.
With the route running through late March, passengers can plan winter escapes or spring getaways to enjoy beaches, snorkeling, island-hopping and traditional French Polynesian hospitality. Travelers should check fare availability, baggage policies and any entry requirements when booking, and consider booking early for peak holiday travel dates.