United Airlines To Launch First Flights From US to Sapporo, Japan

Image: Skiing in Sapporo, Japan (Photo Credit: Air Canada/Adobe Stock)
Image: Skiing in Sapporo, Japan (Photo Credit: Air Canada/Adobe Stock)
Jessica Puckett
by Jessica Puckett
Last updated: 11:30 AM ET, Thu May 14, 2026

United Airlines’ newest route announcement is set to give travelers in the United States new nonstop access to one of Japan’s most unique destinations. 

The carrier just announced plans to launch nonstop flights from San Francisco (SFO) to Sapporo, Japan, the bustling capital city of the island of Hokkaido and a breathtaking ski destination.

When the historic route launches in December, it will be the first-ever direct connection between the scenic Japanese city, which is also known for delicacies like Sapporo ramen and fresh seafood, and the continental U.S.

Starting December 11, United will operate three flights per week between SFO and Sapporo (CTS) on board its Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner plane. The route will fly during the winter season from December through March.

The Chicago-based carrier also plans to launch new nonstop flights from Chicago’s O’Hare International Airport (ORD) to Tokyo Narita (NRT) this fall. Starting October 24, United will begin daily nonstop service between the Midwest hub and Japan’s largest city aboard its Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner aircraft. 

The carrier is the only airline to serve the Pacific market out of Chicago, and it already operates one route from O’Hare to Tokyo’s Haneda International Airport (HND).

"Whether customers are dreaming of skiing in Sapporo, planning a business trip to Tokyo with some exploration added in, or an even bigger adventure across Asia, United gives travelers more ways to get there than any U.S. airline," said Patrick Quayle, United’s senior vice president of network planning and global alliances.

This winter, the airline expects to operate up to 13 flights per day from the continental U.S. and four airports in Japan.

Fares for the new flights will be available to purchase on United’s website and app by the end of the day on May 14.


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Jessica Puckett

Jessica Puckett

Jessica Puckett is an Emmy Award-winning journalist who covers transportation and travel news. She has reported for ABC News, The Points Guy, Condé Nast Traveler, and several other publications.

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