United Airlines has launched the first nonstop flight service between the United States and Faro, Portugal, creating a new transatlantic connection that opens up the Algarve region to American tourists for the first time.
The new service links Newark Liberty International Airport with Faro, the gateway to Portugal’s southern coast. The route, which began on May 17, is the first of its kind and is part of United’s largest international expansion in its history.
The Algarve, known for its golden beaches, charming coastal towns, and luxury resorts, is now just one direct flight away for U.S. travelers. With this new route, United positions the region as a premium destination for vacationers seeking sun, comfort, and convenience.
Four Weekly Flights for Summer Travelers
United will operate four weekly seasonal flights between Newark and Faro throughout the summer. Flights from Faro will depart on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 11:40 a.m. local time, arriving in Newark at approximately 3:00 p.m. local time.
Return flights from Newark will leave on Sundays, Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays at 9:35 p.m., landing in Faro the next day at around 9:50 a.m.
The route will be served by United’s Boeing 757-200 aircraft. Each plane has 176 seats, including 16 United Polaris business class flat-bed seats, 42 Economy Plus seats with extra legroom, and 118 standard Economy seats. This mix offers options for travelers seeking both luxury and affordability.
Economic Boost for Algarve Region
The introduction of this nonstop service is expected to benefit the Algarve’s tourism industry and local economy. While the region already draws millions of visitors from Europe each year, American tourists previously had to make multiple flight connections to reach Faro.
By reducing travel time and increasing accessibility, the new route is likely to bring a surge in U.S. visitors, particularly during the high-demand summer season. The Algarve’s warm climate, golf courses, and historic towns are expected to appeal to a wide range of American travelers.
Tourism and airport officials in Portugal have welcomed the move. The service was developed through collaboration between United Airlines and several Portuguese partners, including ANA Aeroportos de Portugal – VINCI Airports, Turismo de Portugal, and the Algarve Tourism Association.
Their joint effort reflects the growing focus on regional air connectivity as a driver of global tourism growth.
This new route not only enhances Portugal’s position in the U.S. travel market but also signals a broader trend of expanding international links between secondary European cities and North America.
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