Get ready for a travel revolution! The United States Department of Transportation (DOT) has green-lighted United Airlines to launch groundbreaking fifth freedom flights to Bangkok, Thailand, and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, with Hong Kong as a convenient stopover. This makes United the ONLY U.S. airline set to offer daily routes to these Southeast Asian hotspots!

What Are Fifth Freedom Flights?

Fifth freedom rights allow airlines to transport passengers or cargo between two foreign nations. Simply put, it's the ability for an airline to carry travelers from its home country to a second destination and then onward to a third. It's an exciting way to bolster international travel!

Mark Your Calendars: Launching October 2025!

Starting October 26, 2025, United Airlines will kick off daily flights to Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi International Airport (BKK) and Ho Chi Minh City's Tan Son Nhat International Airport (SGN), launched from Hong Kong International Airport (HKG). The flights will originate from Los Angeles (LAX) and San Francisco (SFO).

Fly in Style on Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners!

Travelers can experience the luxury of United's Boeing 787-9 Dreamliners, designed to accommodate 257 passengers across four classes: 48 in business, 21 in premium economy, 39 in economy plus, and 149 in economy. With an average fleet age of just 6.7 years, you're in for a comfortable ride!

Meet the Growing Demand for Southeast Asian Travel

These new services are perfectly timed to cater to the surging interest in travel to key destinations like Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City. In fact, Thailand is set to welcome an astounding 40 million tourists in 2025 alone!

United Airlines: Expanding Global Footprint!

United is on a mission to expand its international network, especially in the Asia-Pacific region. Just recently, they announced routes to Adelaide, Australia, set to launch on December 11, 2025, becoming the only U.S. carrier with nonstop services between Adelaide (ADL) and San Francisco (SFO). This seasonal route will run three times a week on their 787-9s!

More Choices for the Philippines!

But that’s not all! On October 25, 2025, United will also introduce an additional flight between San Francisco and Manila, giving travelers more flexibility to choose between day and evening flights. This route will utilize the Boeing 777-300ER, seating up to 350 passengers for a truly enjoyable journey.

A Future Full of Adventure Awaits!

While the new routes to Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City are confirmed, other paths are still awaiting approval. Patrick Quayle, United’s Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning, states, "At United, we're changing how people view travel, offering unrivaled access to vibrant destinations around the globe. We're more than just airlines; we're gateways to adventure!"