United to launch seasonal San Francisco–Okinawa route in March

United Airlines plans to begin nonstop service between San Francisco and Okinawa starting March 27, running through October, according to the airline. The route would make Okinawa the sixth Japanese city on United's network, joining existing gateways in the country.

The flight is scheduled to operate three times a week using a Boeing 777-200ER, the airline said. The seasonal timing suggests the route is aimed largely at travel demand during the spring and summer months.

United described the addition as part of what it called its largest-ever international expansion. Among other new routes cited by the airline is a nonstop service to Slovenia, marking the carrier's return to that market after roughly three and a half decades without direct flights.

No further detail was given on ticket pricing or expected passenger demand for the Okinawa route. The airline did not specify whether the seasonal service could be extended or made permanent in future years.

Okinawa, a popular destination for both domestic Japanese travelers and visitors from other parts of Asia, has not previously had a direct link to the United States mainland via this carrier. The new route adds to a growing list of Pacific offerings from San Francisco, which serves as one of United's primary international hubs.

Details on connecting service, aircraft configuration, and fare classes were not included in the announcement.