United Airlines Applies to Serve Cuba from Four U.S. Gateways

United Airlines has submitted a formal application to the U.S. Department of Transportation (DOT) for authority to operate flights from four of its largest U.S. gateway cities – Newark/New York, Houston, Washington, D.C. and Chicago – to Havana’s José Martí International Airport.

“This is an historic moment for our company, our employees and, most importantly, our customers,” said Oscar Munoz, United’s president and chief executive officer. “We want to be the first choice for passengers traveling between the U.S. and Cuba. We’re able to offer customers the best access, convenience and connections to and from Havana through our industry-leading global route network, and we’re excited to compete for this important service.”

United’s proposal to DOT outlines its planned service to Havana from hubs serving four of the country’s largest Cuban-American populations.

The service would include a total of 11 round trip flights per week with daily service from Newark Liberty and one additional Saturday flight (eight weekly flights), along with a Saturday-only flight from Houston George Bush Intercontinental, Washington Dulles and Chicago O’Hare (three weekly flights).

If United’s application is approved, service to Havana on these routes will be operated with Wi-Fi-equipped Boeing 737-800 two-cabin aircraft featuring 16 United First, 90 United Economy and 48 extra legroom United Economy Plus seats.

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