CEBU, Philippines – United Airlines has officially launched a new direct route between Cebu and Tokyo/Narita, offering daily service between the two cities. To commemorate the inaugural flights on October 28, 2024, gate events were held at Mactan-Cebu International Airport and Tokyo’s Narita Airport. Passengers joined United executives, staff, and local dignitaries at Cebu’s airport departure gate, where a ribbon-cutting ceremony celebrated the new connection.
The daily service departs from Cebu at 9:30 a.m., reaching Tokyo/Narita at 3:15 p.m. Return flights leave Tokyo at 5:30 p.m. and arrive in Cebu by 10:05 p.m. The flights are serviced by a Boeing 737-800 with 166 seats, including 16 in business class, enhancing travel options for passengers in Cebu and nearby regions.
This new route makes United the only U.S. carrier to operate from Cebu, providing Philippine-based travelers with easier access to Japan, and onward connections to the United States through United’s hubs in major U.S. cities. With this additional route, United offers more convenient travel choices and supports Cebu’s role as a major tourism and cultural gateway to the Philippines. According to United’s Asia Pacific Director Walter Dias, the route also benefits the local economy by connecting Cebu to the world.
United Airlines has maintained a strong presence in the Philippines since 1982 and currently operates direct flights from Manila to Guam, Palau, and San Francisco. The Cebu-Tokyo/Narita service brings United’s total weekly flights from the Philippines to 23, further reinforcing its network within the Asia-Pacific region.
FAQ:
Q: When did United Airlines launch the Cebu-Tokyo/Narita route?
A: The inaugural flights launched on October 28, 2024.
Q: How frequently will United operate flights between Cebu and Tokyo/Narita?
A: United Airlines offers daily flights between Cebu and Tokyo/Narita.
Q: What are the departure and arrival times for these flights?
A: Flights from Cebu depart at 9:30 a.m. and arrive in Tokyo/Narita at 3:15 p.m. Return flights depart from Tokyo at 5:30 p.m., arriving in Cebu at 10:05 p.m.
Q: Which aircraft model is used for the Cebu-Tokyo/Narita route?
A: United operates the route using a Boeing 737-800 with 166 seats, including 16 in business class.
Q: What additional connections does this route offer?
A: Through United’s U.S. hubs, passengers can connect from Tokyo/Narita to over 200 destinations across the United States.
Q: How does this route benefit Cebu and surrounding regions?
A: The new service bolsters Cebu’s tourism and economic opportunities, connecting local communities to Japan and the U.S., and enhancing Cebu’s reputation as a travel gateway in the Philippines.
Q: What other routes does United operate in the Philippines?
A: United Airlines also operates direct flights from Manila to Guam, Palau, and San Francisco.
