United Airlines is expanding its Latin American network with new year-round nonstop service to Cartagena, Colombia, from both Houston Intercontinental Airport (IAH) and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD). The flights are scheduled to commence on December 17, with four weekly frequencies during the winter season, operated by Boeing 737 aircraft equipped with seatback entertainment screens, Bluetooth connectivity, and larger overhead bins.
Strategic Expansion in Colombia
Patrick Quayle, United's Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Global Alliances, emphasized the carrier's long-standing commitment to the region: “Colombia has been an important part of United's Latin America network for more than 30 years, and our new service to Cartagena reflects our continued investment in the country.” The new routes complement United's existing services to Bogotá and Medellín, offering travelers more options to explore Colombia.
David Kinzelman, United's Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer, highlighted the customer experience angle: “By flying direct, we'll give our customers even more time to see the sights and along the way, they'll enjoy all the value we pack into each flight.” The airline aims to attract both leisure and business travelers to Cartagena, a city renowned for its Spanish colonial architecture, vibrant culinary scene, and rich history.
Cartagena was recently recognized by Lonely Planet as a 2026 Best in Travel destination, underscoring its growing appeal among international tourists. United's new flights will connect the city to more than 70 destinations across the United States, leveraging the carrier's hubs in Houston and Washington, D.C. United currently offers more flights to Latin America than any other airline operating out of Texas and the Washington, D.C. area.
For travel professionals, this development opens up new opportunities for packaging itineraries that combine Cartagena with other Colombian cities or Caribbean destinations. The year-round schedule provides stability for tour operators and agents planning long-term programs. As the travel industry continues to recover, United's investment in secondary Latin American markets signals confidence in sustained demand.
In related news, other carriers are also expanding their networks. For instance, LOT Polish Airlines recently launched Delhi–California flights via its Warsaw hub, reflecting a broader trend of airlines adding long-haul routes to meet pent-up demand. Meanwhile, the WTTC has launched a global campaign to identify seven contemporary wonders of travel, which could further boost destination marketing efforts for places like Cartagena.
United's move also aligns with the growing interest in experiential travel, where destinations with cultural and historical depth are increasingly favored. Cartagena's appeal to both North American and European travelers makes it a strategic addition to United's route map. The airline's decision to operate year-round, rather than seasonally, indicates a long-term bet on the destination's tourism potential.
Travel agents and tour operators should note that the new flights provide a direct link from two major U.S. gateways, reducing travel time and simplifying logistics for clients. The Boeing 737 configuration, with modern amenities, enhances the in-flight experience for passengers. United's extensive domestic network also allows for seamless connections from cities across the U.S., making Cartagena more accessible than ever.
As the aviation industry continues to evolve, United's expansion in Latin America serves as a case study in strategic network planning. The carrier's focus on underserved markets like Cartagena could inspire other airlines to explore similar opportunities in secondary cities with strong tourism potential. For now, travel professionals should prepare for increased demand and consider incorporating Cartagena into their offerings.
