United Airlines relaunched its seasonal service between San Francisco and Christchurch, meeting rising demand. As China-US travel declines, US airlines look for new opportunities to use their widebody aircraft efficiently.

This San Francisco-Christchurch route offers direct access to New Zealand’s South Island. United introduced the route last summer, and it returned for the 2024 season. United’s flight UA730 departed San Francisco International Airport (SFO) on December 6 and reached Christchurch after 13 hours.

The service runs three times a week on a Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner. It is the only nonstop link between New Zealand’s South Island and the US. The flight connects American travelers to Christchurch’s natural beauty, business opportunities, and export networks.

United Airlines and Air New Zealand worked hard to understand traveler needs. The route boosts tourism, supports Antarctic operations, and strengthens air freight routes. It helps exporters ship fresh goods like kiwifruit, seafood, and meat to the US.

American travelers enjoy connections to over 125 US destinations from Christchurch. New Zealanders can also reach over 30 US destinations via United Airlines. This service strengthens travel options for both regions.

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