Flights Between U.S. Hubs Will Precede The Start Of International Routes

United Airlines plans to fly its new Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft on domestic routes starting in November as it prepares to begin previously-announced international service in December and January. The company said Wednesday that as the initial aircraft are inducted into the fleet late in September, they will be based at United's Houston hub. Proving/validation flights and training activities that allow United to meet FAA certification requirements and prepare United to become the first North American operator for this new aircraft type will take place in October. The second delivery is also expected in that timeframe.

Scheduled commercial flights from Houston to other U.S. hubs., and delivery of the carriers' 3rd and 4th 787 are expected in November. By December, scheduled commercial flights from Houston to other U.S. hubs will take place. The 5th 787 delivery is expected, and the first international service is planned for December 4. In January, UAL plans to begin scheduled commercial flights on additional international routes as announced on Aug. 23.
 
United will phase in scheduled 787 service between Houston and each of its other domestic hubs beginning Nov, 4, 2012. The schedule allows United's 787s to operate more than 470 flight segments in the U.S. in the last two months of 2012 in addition to international flights beginning in early December. "While the Dreamliner's superior operating economics make it ideally suited for international routes, we're pleased to have this opportunity to introduce it on domestic flights between many of our hub cities allowing both customers and employees to experience this revolutionary aircraft and its many unique benefits," says United's Managing Director of Scheduling, Grant Whitney. "United customers and employees can take part in welcoming the newest member of our fleet."

As the first airline to operate the 767 and 777, United is proud to continue this tradition by adding the 787 to its fleet several years ahead of its North American competitors.

(Image provided by UAL)

FMI: www.unitedcontinentalholdings.com