United Airlines Launches Flights Between San Francisco and Auckland, New Zealand

United Airlines has launched nonstop flights between San Francisco and Auckland, New Zealand.

United will operate Boeing 787-8 aircraft on the San Francisco - Auckland.

United Flight 917 will depart San Francisco at 22:45 three times weekly, arriving at Auckland International Airport at 06:55 two days later due to time zone differences (all times local).

On the return, Flight 916 will depart Auckland at 13:20 daily, arriving at San Francisco International Airport at 06:40 the same day.

Flying times will be approximately 13 hours westbound and 12 hours, 20 minutes eastbound.

United’s inaugural service to Auckland marks the official start of the airline’s joint venture agreement with Air New Zealand. The carriers are deepening their existing Star Alliance relationship by offering customers more choice and convenience when booking travel between the United States and New Zealand and beyond.

“Our new joint venture with Air New Zealand allows both airlines to optimize our trans-Pacific schedules and offer customers more choice and convenience when traveling between the U.S. and New Zealand," said Jim Compton, United's vice chairman and chief revenue officer. "Our customers wanted new ways to access New Zealand and destinations beyond and our relationship with Air New Zealand allows customers to plan seamless travel throughout the South Pacific.”

United’s joint venture partner Air New Zealand operates a daily service between San Francisco and Auckland, departing San Francisco at 21:45 and arriving in Auckland at 05:35 two days later due to time differences. The return flight departs Auckland at 19:45 and arrives in San Francisco at 12:45 the same day.

Auckland is known as the City of Sails and there couldn’t be a more appropriate nickname. The vibrant and modern city is situated on both the Tasman Sea and the Pacific Ocean, nestled by harbors on the glimmering blue waters. The surrounding areas are ripe with natural beauty, from sandy beaches to snow-covered mountain peaks. New Zealand’s many hiking trails, waterways and picturesque forests offer adventurers and outdoor enthusiasts the perfect getaway.

"We know that New Zealand is a popular destination for American travelers,” said Air New Zealand’s Chief Sales and Commercial Officer Cam Wallace. “By working more closely with such a strong carrier like United Airlines, we look forward to welcoming even more American visitors to enjoy our unique Kiwi tourism experience."

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