United Airlines Launches It's First-ever Route to Alaska From This Major Hub

22.01.2024 - 20:09 / travelandleisure.com

With Alaska travel on the rise, United Airlines is introducing a new route to Anchorage just in time for the summer season. 

Marking the airline’s first route to Alaska, United will begin flying between Washington, D.C., and Anchorage on May 23, as confirmed to T+L. The seasonal service will operate once daily through September 2, otherwise known as the unofficial end to summer with the Labor Day holiday. 

Travelers can book this new flight directly through United’s website or mobile app. 

United plans to depart its major Washington-Dulles International Airport hub in the evening at 5:44 p.m. before landing at 9:28 p.m. On the return, the airline has scheduled a red-eye flight leaving Ted Stevens Anchorage International Airport at 8:05 p.m. and will arrive at Washington-Dulles at 7:07 a.m.

On the nearly eight-hour route, United plans to use its Boeing 737 MAX-8 aircraft — which is different from the MAX-9 currently under inspection for loose bolts. Over the past few weeks, United has canceled hundreds of flights with the MAX-9 until the FAA approves an “extensive and rigorous inspection and maintenance process.”

As part of the newest aircraft in its fleet, all of United’s MAX-8 aircraft come equipped with Wi-Fi, power outlets and USB ports, and personal seatback entertainment. 

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United’s MAX-8 aircraft has 16 first-class recliner seats in a 2-2 configuration, where travelers will receive a meal onboard. There are 101 seats in economy class with “meals for purchase” according to the airline, so passengers should prepare to pack a snack (or two) for the long-haul route.

Alaska Airlines recently announced similar plans to expand flying out of Anchorage, as it announced new routes from San Diego and New York-JFK to start this May and June, respectively. With United’s new service from Washington-Dulles, there will be a total of two routes connecting the East Coast to the state of Alaska this summer.