United Airlines Forges New Alliances and Expands Network Amidst Industry Shifts

United Airlines is making significant moves in the global aviation landscape, announcing a new partnership with ITA Airways and strategically expanding its domestic network. These developments come as the airline also considers its future fleet needs and navigates a competitive market, including the financial struggles of Spirit Airlines.

Key Takeaways

• United Airlines and ITA Airways launch a codeshare and loyalty partnership, with ITA set to join the Star Alliance in 2026.
• United is increasing flights in markets served by Spirit Airlines, anticipating potential disruptions from Spirit’s financial difficulties.
• The airline is also planning to reintroduce its popular Greenland service in 2026.
• United’s CEO is actively discussing the U.S. international air travel “trade deficit” with policymakers.

New Transatlantic Partnership with ITA Airways

United Airlines and Italy’s ITA Airways have initiated a codeshare and loyalty partnership, effective September 15th. This collaboration allows members of both United’s MileagePlus and ITA’s Volare loyalty programs to earn and redeem points on each other’s flights, with elite members gaining access to reciprocal lounge benefits. This alliance is a stepping stone towards ITA Airways joining the Star Alliance in early 2026, aligning it with United and other major carriers. The partnership is part of the Lufthansa Group’s integration of ITA Airways, following their acquisition of a significant stake in the Italian carrier.

Strategic Network Expansion Amidst Spirit Airlines’ Challenges

In a proactive move, United Airlines is bolstering its winter schedule by adding flights to 15 cities, with a particular focus on markets currently served by Spirit Airlines. This expansion is explicitly aimed at providing alternative options for customers should Spirit Airlines face further operational disruptions or cease operations, following its recent Chapter 11 bankruptcy filing. United’s SVP of Global Network Planning and Alliances, Patrick Quayle, stated that these additional flights are intended to mitigate disruption for travelers in the event of Spirit’s failure. United is also taking over two specific routes from Spirit that the latter is discontinuing due to its restructuring.

Return to Greenland and Fleet Considerations

United Airlines has announced its intention to bring back its unique service to Greenland in 2026, following a successful inaugural season. The flights from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Nuuk, Greenland (GOH), were a historic first for U.S. carriers. This route, operating on a Boeing 737 MAX 8, highlights United’s strategy of offering aspirational and unique destinations. Concurrently, United’s CEO, Scott Kirby, is engaging with Washington policymakers regarding the perceived “trade deficit” in international air travel, where foreign carriers hold a larger share of long-haul routes to and from the U.S. Kirby is also evaluating the potential addition of Airbus A350 aircraft to United’s fleet, considering a favorable engine deal and the need to replace aging aircraft like the Boeing 757 and 767.

Market Positioning and Future Outlook

United’s strategic decisions reflect a dynamic approach to market positioning. The partnership with ITA Airways strengthens its European network, while the expansion into Spirit’s markets capitalizes on competitor weakness. The return to Greenland showcases its commitment to niche, high-demand routes. As the airline considers fleet modernization and addresses broader industry trade issues, these moves signal a forward-looking strategy aimed at growth and customer service.

Sources

• United Airlines and ITA Airways debut flight, loyalty partnership, The Points Guy.
• United CEO Frames A U.S. Airline “Trade Deficit” For Washington—But Considers Buying Airbus A350s, View from the Wing.
• United Adds New Flights: “If Spirit Suddenly Goes Out Of Business…”, One Mile at a Time.