United Airlines Expands Network with Five New Cities

United Airlines continues to expand its network with the addition of five new cities. These include Bloomington, Champaign, Kalamazoo, La Crosse, and Lansing. Four out of the five cities have previously been part of United’s network, but this is the first time in recent years.

United’s Growing Network

Last week, it was revealed that United Airlines is set to fly to 386 airports globally this year, making it the airline with the most destinations. However, with the addition of these five new cities, the number has now increased to 391. This trend is expected to continue, with more cities likely to be added in the coming months.

Routes from Chicago O’Hare Hub

These five new cities will be served from United’s hub in Chicago O’Hare. According to Cirium Diio data, O’Hare is the busiest hub for United in the first half of 2026, with a significant number of regional jet flights. The routes are expected to begin in April or May and operate four times daily. The specific airline operating on a capacity purchase agreement for United Express is yet to be announced, but it is likely to be a mix of CRJ200, CRJ550, or E175 aircraft.

United’s Previous Operations to the Five Cities

Bloomington, which is located just 101 nautical miles from O’Hare, was last served by United in 2008. La Crosse, on the other hand, has never been served by United before, at least not since 1990. The other three cities, Champaign, Kalamazoo, and Lansing, have been served by United on and off since 2003.

Competition with American Airlines

The addition of these five cities will bring United’s rivalry with American Airlines to a new level. American already serves all five cities from O’Hare, making it a direct competition. In June, American plans to operate three daily flights to Bloomington, Champaign, and La Crosse, and two daily flights to Kalamazoo and Lansing. This competition between the two airlines will ultimately benefit consumers.

United’s First Service to La Crosse

The addition of La Crosse to United’s network marks the first time the airline will serve this city. According to the US Department of Transportation, United has not previously operated any scheduled services to this Wisconsin city, which is located 187 nautical miles from O’Hare. The small market of La Crosse only had 106 passengers daily each way in the past 12 months. However, with four daily flights from United and three from American, this competitive move will benefit consumers.