United Adds More Offbeat Destinations: Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and Adelaide

Skift Take

The latest expansion is a part of United’s strategy to bet on off-the-beaten path international destinations.

 

United Airlines is expanding its West Coast network with a slate of new destinations to Asia and Australia. 

The carrier announced Wednesday that it will operate daily flights to Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City from Hong Kong. The routes will connect through Hong Kong from Los Angeles and San Francisco, said United executive Patrick

These new services come as part of a broader strategy by United to tap into international markets that are less saturated and offer more niche opportunities for growth. In addition to the daily flights to Thailand and Vietnam, United is also adding a service to Adelaide, Australia, which will further enhance its position in the Pacific region.

“We're seeing strong demand from travelers seeking unique, off-the-beaten-path experiences, and we believe these new destinations will provide just that,” Quayle added. United’s decision to focus on cities like Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City, and Adelaide reflects a growing trend toward catering to travelers looking for alternatives to the most popular international hubs.

The airline’s expansion into these less-traveled cities is likely to appeal to both business and leisure travelers, especially as the demand for long-haul, diverse itineraries continues to rise. By connecting these cities with major hubs like Los Angeles and San Francisco, United is not only increasing accessibility to new markets but also improving its competitive edge in the Asia-Pacific region.

United’s move is also seen as a response to the increasing competition in the international travel space, with airlines around the world seeking to capitalize on emerging destinations.