United Airlines is one of the world's largest and most recognized air carriers, with a rich history and a vast global network. From its early days carrying airmail to its current position as a major international airline, United has played a significant role in the history of commercial aviation.
It was officially formed in 1931 from a consolidation of several smaller airlines, including Boeing Air Transport, Pacific Air Transport, Varney Air Lines, and National Air Transport. These companies all held early U.S. airmail contracts.
One of United's most notable innovations was the introduction of the first airline stewardess, a registered nurse named Ellen Church, in 1930. This marked a significant step in enhancing passenger comfort and service. The airline also pioneered the first coast-to-coast passenger route in the U.S., becoming a foundational carrier for domestic air travel.
United Airlines operates an extensive fleet of aircraft, consisting of a mix of both Airbus and Boeing planes. As of mid-2025, United’s mainline fleet is one of the largest globally, with a significant number of narrow-body and wide-body aircraft. The airline has made substantial investments in its fleet, with orders for hundreds of new aircraft, including the Boeing 787 Dreamliner, which is a core component of its long-haul international service. The airline also has future plans to add new-generation planes like the Airbus A321XLR and the Boom Overture supersonic jet.
United's operational strategy is centered around a hub-and-spoke system. It maintains eight major hubs in the U.S.:
United also operates United Express, a regional network that partners with smaller carriers like Republic Airways and SkyWest Airlines to provide service to smaller cities and feed traffic into the main hubs.
United offers various services designed to cater to different travelers. Its loyalty program, MileagePlus, is one of the oldest and most popular in the industry, allowing members to earn and redeem miles on flights and with partner companies. United is also a founding member of the Star Alliance, the world's largest airline alliance, which provides customers with a vast network of connections and reciprocal benefits with other member airlines.
Onboard, the airline offers several cabin classes:
United has been focusing on modernizing the customer experience through technology. This includes a revamped mobile app with features like personalized gate-to-gate directions and real-time flight updates. The airline is also expanding its in-flight entertainment options, recently adding content from services like Apple TV+ and Spotify to its seatback screens.
In recent years, United has been navigating a dynamic and often challenging industry landscape. The airline has faced operational hurdles, including a recent "technology disruption" that caused widespread flight delays and cancellations. United has also been at the forefront of sustainability efforts, investing in companies that are developing alternative fuels and next-generation aircraft designs. The airline's commitment to fleet modernization, customer-focused technology, and strategic partnerships positions it to remain a key player in the global aviation market.
