United Airlines has been making headlines recently with its unique rapid expansion. Beginning in September 2020, United has been announcing new routes left and right to underserved destinations. Routes such as San Francisco to Bangalore and Washington-Dulles to Lagos are prime examples of these routes. Surprisingly, these routes have been frequently leaving full in recent weeks, demonstrating success for United's route planning department.

On the morning of June 8, United Airlines announced a new international service from San Francisco, California (SFO) to Brisbane, Australia (BNE). Launching on October 28, the route will be operated thrice weekly on the airline's Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner aircraft. The 257-seat aircraft will have 48 Polaris Business Class seats, 21 Premium Plus seats, 39 Economy Plus seats, and 149 basic economy seats.
 

As travel restrictions continue to be lifted and more people travel, United continues to build its route network and connections between the United States and Australia, especially after the announcement of its recent partnership with Virgin Australia. Leading United States airlines in flights between America and Australia, United adds to its current route network between the two countries. Currently, United serves both Sydney and Melbourne from both Los Angeles and San Francisco. The airline also operates a daily flight to Sydney from its Houston hub.
 

This new route marks the first transpacific route opening since the onset of the pandemic, according to United Airlines. This new service is set to bring USD $73 million into the Australian economy, creating almost 400 new jobs.

"This new service from United is a gamechanger for Queensland and we look forward to welcoming guests from across the United network to experience the sunshine, beaches and Queensland's unique outdoor lifestyle," said Gert-Jan de Graaff, CEO, Brisbane Airport Corporation. "Australia is often mentioned as a bucket-list destination for North American travelers, so now is the time for customers to jump on board and see it for themselves."
 

The inaugural flight is already bookable on United's website, with economy class tickets starting at $949 one-way. The fourteen-hour flight is set to depart at 11:20pm and arrive 6:30am two days later.