United Airlines has announced plans to operate its longest nonstop routes using the Boeing 737 MAX in 2025, demonstrating a significant commitment to this aircraft model. The airline currently has a fleet that includes 123 Boeing 737 MAX 8s and 113 Boeing 737 MAX 9s, with outstanding orders for 278 additional units. This expansion highlights United’s position as the world’s largest customer for the Boeing 737 MAX family, particularly the MAX 9 and MAX 10 variants.
According to data from Cirium, a leading aviation data analytics company, United Airlines is leveraging the fuel efficiency and operational capacity of the 737 MAX for its longest flights. This strategic move allows the airline to optimize its service offerings and reduce operational costs while providing passengers with a more comfortable travel experience.
Key Routes to Anchorage, Alaska
United Airlines’ longest route utilizing the 737 MAX in 2025 will connect Newark to Anchorage, Alaska, covering a distance of 2,927 nautical miles (5,422 kilometers). This summer-only service will operate with the Boeing 737 MAX 8 and is scheduled for a flight time of seven hours and 48 minutes. The return flight to Newark is estimated at six hours and 59 minutes. Alaska Airlines competes on this route with its own 737 MAX 8 service to New York-JFK, reflecting the high demand for travel to Anchorage, the largest city in Alaska.
In addition to the Newark route, United will operate a seasonal service from Washington-Dulles to Anchorage, which spans 2,916 nautical miles (5,400 kilometers) with a flight time of approximately five hours and 31 minutes outbound. Another notable route is from Houston, covering 2,837 nautical miles (5,254 kilometers), which is ranked as the airline’s fourth-longest Boeing 737 MAX route.
Expanding Further into Alaska and International Destinations
United Airlines also serves Fairbanks, Alaska, from both Chicago-O’Hare and Denver, using the Boeing 737 MAX 8 for these flights. The route from Chicago to Fairbanks measures 2,420 nautical miles (4,482 kilometers) and operates daily during the summer season, taking approximately five hours and 31 minutes in the westward direction.
On the international front, United operates a unique transatlantic route from Newark to Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport in Funchal, Madeira. This route, launched in June 2025, will operate three times weekly and covers a distance of 2,761 nautical miles (5,114 kilometers), making it the fifth-longest 737 MAX route. The eastbound flight is expected to take six hours and 50 minutes, while the return trip is blocked for seven hours and 30 minutes.
United’s expansion is not limited to Alaska and Europe; the airline also maintains a robust presence in Latin America. Key routes include San Francisco to Panama City, which spans 2,885 nautical miles (5,343 kilometers) with a scheduled flight time of approximately six hours and 27 minutes. Additionally, the airline operates flights to San Jose, Costa Rica, and Liberia, Costa Rica, showcasing its commitment to connecting major cities in the region.
United Airlines has configured its Boeing 737 MAX 8s to accommodate 166 passengers, with a cabin layout that includes 16 first-class seats and 150 economy seats, featuring 54 economy plus seats. This design enhances the passenger experience, especially on longer routes, by providing a quieter ride and larger overhead bins.
Through these strategic route expansions, United Airlines aims to maximize its operational efficiency while enhancing connectivity and service across its network. As the airline continues to grow its fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft, passengers can expect increased options for travel to both domestic and international destinations.
