United Airlines seeks approval from the US Department of Transportation (DOT) to launch a new route connecting Los Angeles and Beijing. Strengthening its presence in the Pacific market, the airline plans to start the service by May 1st.

The new route will operate three times a week between Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Beijing Capital Airport (PEK). United Airlines will use its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for the 6,250-mile flight. This service directly competes with Air China’s existing four-weekly service on a Boeing 777-300ER.

If approved, the new service will complement United’s daily San Francisco-Beijing route, further enhancing its position in the Pacific Rim. The Boeing 787-9 will add 771 seats per week in both directions, offering more capacity for business and leisure travelers. This aircraft has 257 seats, including 48 in business class, 21 in premium economy, and 188 in economy class.

Travel demand between China and the US remains slow, but United Airlines continues expanding. Political tensions and flight restrictions have limited US-China flights to just 50 per week, far fewer than the pre-pandemic 300 services. United operates below this cap, which leaves room for growth.

In addition to this new route, United Airlines has invested in long-haul services from Los Angeles and San Francisco. United already flies to destinations like Hong Kong, Tokyo, Sydney, and Melbourne from these hubs. With fleet upgrades and expansion, the airline solidifies its role as a leader in international travel and a key Star Alliance member. United Airlines’ commitment to global expansion ensures its leadership in long-haul travel from the West Coast.

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