United Airlines is set to enhance its operations in 2025 with a focus on the Boeing 737 MAX, particularly on its longest nonstop routes. The airline has demonstrated a strong commitment to the 737 family, with over 50% of its fleet consisting of Boeing 737s. Currently, United operates 123 Boeing 737 MAX 8s and 113 Boeing 737 MAX 9s, holding orders for an additional 278 units. This strategic investment positions United as the world’s largest customer for both the 737 MAX 9 and 737 MAX 10 variants.
In an effort to capitalize on its investment, United will utilize the 737 MAX on some of its longest routes. According to data from Cirium, an aviation analytics firm, the longest route for United in 2025 will be from Newark to Anchorage, Alaska. This seasonal service operates exclusively during the summer months using a Boeing 737 MAX 8, covering a distance of 2,927 nautical miles (5,422 kilometers). Flight times are blocked for approximately seven hours and 48 minutes to Anchorage and six hours and 59 minutes on the return journey.
Primary Routes to Alaska
Anchorage is a significant destination for United, given its status as Alaska’s largest city. The airline serves Anchorage from multiple hubs, including Washington-Dulles, with a second-longest route covering 2,916 nautical miles (5,400 kilometers). This route also operates with the 737 MAX 8 and has a blocked time of five hours and 31 minutes to Anchorage and five hours and five minutes returning.
Additionally, United operates a seasonal route from Houston to Anchorage, another 737 MAX 8 service that spans 2,837 nautical miles (5,254 kilometers). The Chicago to Anchorage route ranks as the ninth-longest, measuring 2,473 nautical miles (4,580 kilometers) and utilizing a mix of 737 MAX 8s and 737 MAX 9s.
United also serves Fairbanks, Alaska’s second major city for commercial airline service. The Chicago to Fairbanks route ranks as United’s ninth-longest 737 MAX route, operating daily during the summer and covering a distance of 2,420 nautical miles (4,482 kilometers) with a blocked time of five hours and 31 minutes westbound and six hours and four minutes eastbound.
Expanding International Operations
Beyond the Alaskan routes, United Airlines is expanding its international reach. Notably, the airline operates a unique transatlantic route from Newark Liberty International Airport to Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in Madeira, Portugal. This route, serviced by a Boeing 737 MAX 8, covers 2,761 nautical miles (5,114 kilometers) and operates three times weekly. This service, first launched in June 2023, will return for the summer 2026 season.
In addition to its European operations, United offers extensive service to Latin America from its Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport hub. The Houston to Georgetown, Guyana route ranks as the airline’s eighth-longest 737 MAX route, covering a distance of 2,521 nautical miles (4,669 kilometers) and operating four times a week.
The emphasis on the 737 MAX for these longer routes reflects United’s efforts to maximize operational efficiency. With the aircraft’s fuel efficiency and quieter interiors, passengers can expect a comfortable experience on these extensive flights.
United’s ongoing investment in the Boeing 737 MAX fleet not only enhances its operational capabilities but also positions the airline favorably in the competitive landscape of commercial aviation, allowing it to respond effectively to demand across key domestic and international markets.