United Airlines (UAL) marked a significant milestone today as it launched its inaugural nonstop service between Manila, Philippines and San Francisco, United States of America. This new route represents the airline’s first-ever trans-Pacific connection between the Philippines and the continental United States.
In a joyous celebration, UAL executives and esteemed government officials gathered for a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the Ninoy Aquino International Airport (NAIA) Terminal 3 departure gate. The event preceded the departure of the very first flight from Manila to San Francisco, symbolizing a historic moment in aviation. Present at the ceremony were notable figures, including United Airlines Regional Director for the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region, Walter Dias; Country Manager for Sales – Philippines, Pam Navarro; Managing Director for International Sales, Marcel Fuchs; US Ambassador to the Philippines, Her Excellency MaryKay Carlson; Department of Transportation Undersecretary, Roberto Lim; Department of Tourism Regional Director, Sharlene Batin; American Chamber of Commerce Executive Director, Ebb Hinchliffe; and General Manager for Airport Operations in Guam, Samuel Shinohara.
United Airlines’ first direct flight from San Francisco to Manila, designated as UA191, received a warm welcome complete with a water salute upon its arrival at NAIA Terminal 3. The aircraft, carrying a total of 325 passengers, touched down more than an hour ahead of its scheduled arrival time, making its grand entrance at 0520H local time.
| FLIGHT # | FROM | ETD | TO | ETA | FREQUENCY |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UA190 | MNL | 0955H | SFO | 0620H | Daily |
| UA191 | SFO | 2335H | MNL | 0650H +2 | Daily |
This daily and direct flight service establishes an important new connection, rendering the route more accessible and convenient for various categories of travelers, including tourists, business professionals, and overseas Filipinos returning to their homeland. The introduction of this trans-Pacific service promises to foster closer ties between the Philippines and the United States while facilitating the exchange of passengers and goods across the Pacific Ocean. United Airlines has taken a momentous step forward in expanding its global network, further enhancing connectivity between the two nations.