United Airlines Expands Service with New Nonstop Flights to Cartagena
1. Introduction of New Routes
United Airlines Holdings Inc. announced a significant expansion in its service offerings, introducing new nonstop flights from Houston Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD) to Cartagena, Colombia (CTG). This new route, set to commence on December 17, 2026, will feature year-round service starting with four flights per week during the winter season.
2. Flight Details and Amenities
The new flights will utilize Boeing 737 aircraft, designed for passenger comfort and convenience. Each seat will be equipped with seatback screens offering Bluetooth connectivity, alongside larger overhead bins to accommodate travelers' carry-on luggage. In a move to enhance customer experience, United Airlines also plans to introduce complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi for MileagePlus members on these routes.
Flight Schedule
The flight schedule for the new routes is as follows:
Washington D.C. (IAD) to Cartagena (CTG):
- Start Date: December 17, 2026
- Frequency: Four times weekly (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays)
- Departure Time: 8:20 AM
- Arrival Time: 1:10 PM
Cartagena (CTG) to Washington D.C. (IAD):
- Start Date: December 17, 2026
- Frequency: Four times weekly (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays)
- Departure Time: 4:00 PM
- Arrival Time: 8:40 PM
Houston (IAH) to Cartagena (CTG):
- Start Date: December 17, 2026
- Frequency: Four times weekly (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays)
- Departure Time: 9:35 AM
- Arrival Time: 2:50 PM
Cartagena (CTG) to Houston (IAH):
- Start Date: December 17, 2026
- Frequency: Four times weekly (Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, Sundays)
- Departure Time: 2:20 PM
- Arrival Time: 5:45 PM
*Note: Schedule is subject to change and is contingent upon government approval.*
3. Commitment to Colombia
Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Global Alliances at United Airlines, emphasized the importance of Colombia in the airline's Latin America network. "Colombia has been an important part of United's Latin America network for more than 30 years," Quayle stated. He further noted that the new service to Cartagena reflects United's ongoing investment in the region and commitment to providing customers with unique travel experiences.
Cartagena joins Bogotá and Medellín as United's third destination in Colombia, enabling travelers to explore a different aspect of the country and facilitating easier access for North Americans to one of the Caribbean’s most iconic destinations.
4. Cartagena: A Destination to Explore
David Kinzelman, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer at United Airlines, highlighted the allure of Cartagena for travelers. Renowned for its architectural beauty, vibrant culture, and thriving culinary scene, the city has been recognized by Lonely Planet as a "2026 Best in Travel" destination. The direct flights will grant customers more time to soak in the sights and experiences of this historic city.
5. United's Leadership in Latin America
United Airlines continues to hold a leading position in the Latin American market, offering more flights to the region than any other airline from both Texas and the Washington, D.C. area. The airline provides nonstop flights to 57 destinations from Houston and 18 from Dulles, connecting Cartagena to over 70 destinations across the United States.
6. Conclusion
With the introduction of these new nonstop flights to Cartagena, United Airlines reaffirms its commitment to expanding its international network and enhancing customer experience. As the airline continues to innovate and invest in its services, travelers can look forward to more convenient access to one of Colombia's most captivating destinations.
