United Airlines is making a major move by expanding its transpacific network, adding new routes to Mainland China and Hong Kong for the 2025-2026 winter season.

As travel demand between the U.S. and China picks up, United is taking steps to restore its pre-pandemic connectivity and reinforce its position in the market. However, questions remain about whether all these flights will actually operate as planned.

China’s decision to expand its visa-free transit policy in December 2024 has encouraged airlines to add more routes to the region.

The policy allows travelers from 54 countries, including the United States, to stay in China for up to 10 days without a visa. This change has made travel between the two countries more attractive and has contributed to United’s decision to increase flights to China.

New Los Angeles to Beijing Route

One of the most significant additions is the launch of a new route between Los Angeles (LAX) and Beijing (PEK). The service will begin on May 1, 2025, with three flights per week operated by a Boeing 787-9 aircraft. The flight will have 257 seats, including 48 in business class, 21 in premium economy, and 188 in economy.

However, under U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) regulations, United must begin operating this route between May 1 and May 11 and maintain flights at least once every three weeks for 90 consecutive days. If United fails to meet these requirements, the slot could be revoked.

One of the key additions is the Chicago O’Hare (ORD) to Beijing Capital International Airport (PEK) route, which will operate daily using a Boeing 777-200ER.

Similarly, United is launching a daily service between Chicago O’Hare (ORD) and Shanghai Pudong International Airport (PVG), operated by a Boeing 787-8. Shanghai remains one of the most important financial and commercial centers in Asia, making this route highly valuable for corporate travelers.

From Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), United will introduce two new daily flights—one to Beijing (PEK) and another to Shanghai Pudong (PVG).

Expanding beyond Mainland China, United will also launch a daily flight between Newark (EWR) and Hong Kong (HKG), utilizing the Boeing 777-300ER. Lastly, United is adding a San Francisco (SFO) to Chengdu Tianfu International Airport (TFU) route, with three weekly flights operated by a Boeing 787-9.