United Airlines launches Chengdu-San Francisco route with Boeing 787

Reporter Chen Ruizhong / Comprehensive report

United Airlines launched its first direct flight from Chengdu to San Francisco on June 11, marking the airline’s first nonstop route from Chengdu to the United States. According to United Airlines, the flight is scheduled to depart Chengdu Shuangliu International Airport at 9:50 AM every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday, arriving at San Francisco International Airport at 8:40 AM local time on the same day. The return flight, United Airlines UA9, departs San Francisco at 1:25 PM every Monday, Wednesday, and Saturday, arriving in Chengdu at 6:40 PM local time the following day. The Chengdu to San Francisco flight duration is approximately 13 hours and 50 minutes, while the return journey takes about 14 hours and 15 minutes.

▲ United Airlines held a ribbon-cutting ceremony at Chengdu Shuangliu Airport for the inaugural flight, attended by passengers on the first flight, officials from the Chengdu Municipal Government, Chengdu Airport Administration, and the U.S. Consulate General in Chengdu. (Photo / Provided by United Airlines)

The new route will be operated by a Boeing 787-8 aircraft. United Airlines offers special services for passengers on the Chengdu route, including Chinese-speaking cabin crew, Chinese-language entertainment options, and a rich in-flight catering menu that includes Chinese meals.