United Airlines this morning launched its first nonstop service between Manila and San Francisco, the first US carrier to offer direct flights between the two cities. The inaugural flight, UA190, departed Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) at 9:55 AM and is scheduled to arrive at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) at 6:20 AM the same day.
The new service will operate daily on a Boeing 777-300ER aircraft, offering 350 seats in three classes: business class, premium economy, and economy class. United says the flight will take approximately 12 hours and 25 minutes in the eastbound direction, and 15 hours and 15 minutes in the westbound direction.
Before the departure in San Francisco, the Department of Tourism hosted a special send-off ceremony for the passengers and crew of the inaugural flight. Special folkdances, “Love the Philippines” tote bags, memorabilia, among others, were given to passengers.
The inaugural flight was celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony at NAIA, attended by dignitaries from the Philippine government and United Airlines. Upon arrival, a traditional water cannon salute welcomed the aircraft, carrying 325 arriving passengers, as it taxied to its gate at NAIA Terminal 3.
Passengers on the flight were also treated to special amenities, including Philippine-themed meals and snacks.
“We are excited to launch our first nonstop service between San Francisco and Manila, connecting two of the most important cities in the Pacific region,” said United Airlines President and CEO Scott Kirby. “This new flight will make it easier and more convenient for our customers to travel between the Philippines and the United States, and will support the growing business and tourism ties between our two countries.”
The launch of United’s new service comes at a time of increasing demand for travel between the Philippines and the United States. The new flight is expected to further boost travel between the two countries and provide passengers with more options for convenient and affordable travel.
The inaugural flight of United Airlines’ new San Francisco-Manila service is a significant milestone in the history of aviation between the Philippines and the United States. The airline says it is the first and only American carrier to fly non-stop between the U.S. mainland and the Philippines.
United Airlines also serves Manila with flights to Guam and Palau.
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