United Airlines became the first US carrier to fly nonstop to Manila after launching its inaugural flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Manila’s Ninoy Aquino International Airport (MNL) on October 29, 2023.
Flight UA 191 departed SFO at 00:32 local time and arrived in Manila at 05:57 local time on October 30, 2023. The flight took 14 hours and 25 minutes with a Boeing B777-300ER aircraft.
Image: FlightAware
The airline described the route as one of the “most requested in United’s history” and will be operated daily.
Meanwhile, the Philippines’ Department of Transportation regarded the inaugural flight as historic and welcomed United Airlines at Manila airport with a water cannon salute.
“This is the new non-stop transpacific flight. It is a testament to strong bilateral relations,” the Philippines Transportation Undersecretary for Aviation and Airports sector Roberto Lim said.
In July 2023, United announced its plans to significantly expand its winter flight schedule between the United States and countries across the Pacific Ocean, as the airline continues to strengthen its leading US-Pacific market position.