United Airlines (UA) is set to enhance its intra-Asia travel experience by introducing the Boeing B737 MAX 8 to replace its entire Guam-based Boeing B737-800 fleet, marking a significant step in elevating customer service across the Pacific region.
Currently, United is the only U.S. carrier operating intra-Asia routes, offering daily service from Manila (GUM | RPLL) to Guam (GUM | PGUM), twice-weekly flights from Manila (MNL | RPLL) to Palau (ROR | PTRO), and daily flights from Cebu (CEB | RPVM) to Tokyo-Narita (NRT | RJAA). These routes, supported by United’s Guam-based fleet, also provide convenient onward connections to the United States.
The transition to the new B737 MAX 8 aircraft will begin in February 2026, when the first jet arrives in Guam. Each aircraft will feature United’s signature interior, including seatback entertainment in every seat, Bluetooth connectivity, LED mood lighting, larger overhead bins, Wi-Fi access, and additional extra-legroom seating. The upgrades aim to deliver a modern, seamless journey for both regional travelers and those connecting to the U.S. mainland.
Kenichi Kiriyama, United Airlines’ Director of Sales – Asia, Micronesia, highlighted that the investment reflects United’s long-term commitment to the Pacific market. He emphasized that customers traveling between Asia and the U.S. will benefit from a consistent and premium travel experience, whether on a regional flight or a trans-Pacific service.
Features of the New B737 MAX 8 Fleet
The B737 MAX 8 aircraft will accommodate up to 166 passengers, including up to 16 United FirstSM seats. Each seat will have access to USB charging ports and seatback entertainment with accessibility options for travelers with hearing or visual disabilities.
United is also future-proofing its fleet with Wi-Fi connectivity, planning to roll out Starlink-powered internet across all its aircraft in the coming years. MileagePlus members will enjoy free access, enabling high-speed streaming, shopping, and gaming at 30,000 feet.
Passengers can also expect an upgraded entertainment library, with 13-inch HD screens in first class and 10-inch HD screens in economy. United’s in-flight entertainment catalog includes over 1,400 titles in 16 languages, from blockbuster films to international TV shows. Recent additions include full seasons of Apple TV+ hits such as Severance, Ted Lasso, and Slow Horses, as well as a partnership with Spotify that brings 450+ hours of audiobook and podcast content onboard.
United’s Broader Philippine Presence
Beyond its intra-Asia services, United remains the only U.S. airline offering nonstop trans-Pacific flights from the Philippines. It currently operates 30 weekly services, including a daily Manila (MNL | RPLL) –San Francisco (SFO | KSFO) route, which will expand to twice-daily flights starting 26 October 2025.
With the introduction of the B737 MAX 8, United is positioning itself as the premier carrier for both regional and long-haul travelers in the Philippines, ensuring that passengers enjoy a consistent, high-quality travel experience from departure to destination.