United Airlines March 103, 2014 Taipei–San Francisco direct flights   Launch promotional fare starting from NT$21,000

▲ After the launch of United Airlines' Taipei–San Francisco direct flight route, travelers will have more flight options. (Photo / Provided by United Airlines)

Reported by Chen Ruizhong / Taipei

On the 14th, United Airlines announced the official launch of its Taipei–San Francisco direct flight route on March 31, 2014, offering promotional fares and double mileage bonuses through the MileagePlus frequent flyer program. The airline has also released its launch promotional prices,with economy class round-trip tickets starting from NT$21,000 and business/first class round-trip tickets starting from NT$76,700(all prices exclude taxes).

%牧?虾娇沾笾谢?昂???伦芫?泶餮撬棺笕?／Taiwan Regional Sales Director Teresa Tang (second from left). (Photo / Photographed by Chen Ruizhong)

United Airlines Greater China and Korea Managing Director Dias stated that since Taiwan’s U.S. visa waiver policy took effect in November 2012, passenger traffic to the U.S. has grown by 23.8% within six months, with significant future potential. The onboard hardware and software on United Airlines’ Taipei–San Francisco flights will also be redesigned specifically for Taiwanese travelers. The extended flight network from San Francisco covers over 300 destinations across North, Central, and South America as well as the Caribbean, facilitating further travel exploration for passengers.

Teresa Tang, United Airlines Taiwan Regional Sales Director, also noted that San Francisco has always been a beloved travel destination for Taiwanese visitors. In addition to famous landmarks such as the Golden Gate Bridge and Fisherman’s Wharf, the nearby Sonoma wine region is also a highlight. Following the March 31, 2014 launch, travelers can enjoy the San Francisco Cherry Blossom Festival in April, the San Francisco International Film Festival, and the vibrant San Francisco Pride Parade in June, offering a wealth of activities.

United Airlines also announced its MileagePlus frequent flyer program mileage bonus scheme, rewarding passengers who purchase United Global First, United BusinessFirst, and select economy class fares with double mileage. Passengers who buy discounted economy class tickets will receive an additional 50% bonus miles. Travelers who purchase new itineraries after November 15, 2013, and depart before June 20, 2014, are eligible for this bonus. MileagePlus members can enroll on the United Airlines website united.com starting from November 22, 2013.

▲ United Airlines first class seats—don’t they look pretty “tree-like”? (Photo / Provided by United Airlines)

United Airlines will operate daily Taipei–San Francisco flights using Boeing 777-200 aircraft. United Airlines flight UA872 departs Taipei Taoyuan International Airport at 11:25 AM and arrives at San Francisco International Airport at 7:45 AM the same day. The return flight, UA871, departs San Francisco International Airport at 1:55 PM and arrives at Taipei Taoyuan International Airport at 6:35 PM the following day (all times local). The outbound flight duration is approximately 11 hours and 20 minutes, and the return journey takes about 13 hours and 40 minutes.