On July 1, 2016, United Airlines kicked off service between their Pacific gateway at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Auckland, New Zealand (AKL).
The date also marked the official start of a joint venture between United Airlines and Air New Zealand. The venture will further the airlines’ relationship.
In a press release from the airline, Jim Compton, United’s Vice Chairman and Chief Revenue Officer stated, “Our new joint venture with Air New Zealand allows both airlines to optimize our trans-Pacific schedules and offer customers more choice and convenience when traveling between the U.S. and New Zealand. Our customers wanted new ways to access New Zealand and destinations beyond and our relationship with Air New Zealand allows customers to plan seamless travel throughout the South Pacific.”
The United flights will be operated with the new, more efficient Boeing 787-8, switching to the 787-9 at a later date. The venture with Air New Zealand will also allow passengers to connect to more destinations at both ends of the flight.
Flight Schedule
Flights from San Francisco will operate three times weekly until October when the flights will become daily.
| Route | Departure Time | Arrival Time |
| San Francisco-Auckland | 10:45 pm | 6:55 am (+ 2 days) |
| Auckland-San Francisco | 1:20 pm | 6:40 am (same day) |
