Key Takeaways
• United Airlines launches first nonstop Newark-Funchal flights June-Sept 2025 using Boeing 737 MAX 8.
• Ponta Delgada service expands to daily flights June-Sept 2025; seasonal Newark routes increase frequency.
• United offers 11% more seats US-Portugal in 2025, connecting five Portuguese destinations including Madeira and Azores.
United Airlines Expands Summer Flights to Funchal and Ponta Delgada: What It Means for Travelers and the U.S.-Portugal Connection
United Airlines is making a major move in the summer of 2025 by launching new flights to Funchal and increasing service to Ponta Delgada. These changes are not just about adding more flights—they represent a big step in connecting the United States 🇺🇸 and Portugal 🇵🇹, making travel easier for tourists, families, students, and business travelers. Here’s a detailed look at what’s changing, why it matters, and how it could affect you.
Who, What, When, Where, and Why
Who: United Airlines, one of the largest airlines in the United States 🇺🇸, is at the center of this expansion.
What: The airline is launching new nonstop summer flights from Newark Liberty International Airport to Funchal (Madeira) and increasing flights to Ponta Delgada (Azores).
When: These new and expanded routes will run during the summer 2025 season, with most flights starting in early June and ending in late September.
Where: The flights connect Newark, New Jersey, to Funchal and Ponta Delgada, two of Portugal’s most popular island destinations.
Why: United Airlines wants to strengthen its position as the top U.S. airline serving Portugal 🇵🇹, offering more destinations than any other American carrier and meeting the growing demand for travel between the two countries.
Let’s break down the details and what they mean for different groups of travelers.
New Nonstop Flights to Funchal (Madeira)
Starting June 7, 2025, United Airlines will offer its first-ever nonstop flights between Newark Liberty International Airport and Funchal, the capital of Madeira. This is a big deal for several reasons:
- First Direct Connection: This is the first time any U.S. airline has offered a direct flight from the United States 🇺🇸 to Madeira. Before this, travelers had to connect through Lisbon or another European city.
- Seasonal Service: The flights will run three times a week, from June 7 through September 23, 2025.
- Aircraft: United will use the Boeing 737 MAX 8, a modern plane with 166 seats, for these flights.
- Why Funchal? Madeira is a top tourist spot, recently named the “Best Island in Europe” by Condé Nast Traveller’s 2024 Readers’ Choice Awards. It’s known for its beautiful landscapes, mild climate, and unique culture.
Marcel Fuchs, United’s General Manager of International Sales, said, “We are thrilled to announce our first-ever nonstop service between Madeira and New York/Newark, further expanding our route network from Portugal to the US.” This shows United’s commitment to connecting more parts of Portugal 🇵🇹 with the United States 🇺🇸.
Expanded Service to Ponta Delgada (Azores)
United Airlines is also bringing back and expanding its seasonal service to Ponta Delgada, the largest city in the Azores. Here’s what travelers need to know:
- Service Dates: Flights will run from June 5 to September 23, 2025 (from Newark) and until September 24, 2025 (from Ponta Delgada).
- Flight Schedule:
- June 5-26 and September 3-23: Five flights per week (no flights on Mondays and Wednesdays from Newark, and no flights on Tuesdays and Thursdays from Ponta Delgada).
- June 7-September 2: Daily flights during the busiest summer weeks.
- Flight Times:
- Newark to Ponta Delgada (UA 216): Leaves at 11:05 PM, arrives at 8:40 AM the next day.
- Ponta Delgada to Newark (UA 217): Leaves at 11:00 AM, arrives at 1:15 PM.
- Aircraft: These flights also use the Boeing 737 MAX 8.
This expanded schedule means more options for travelers, especially during the peak summer months when demand is highest.
Ticket Prices and How to Book
United Airlines is offering competitive prices for these routes. Here are some examples of roundtrip economy fares for summer 2025:
- Newark to Ponta Delgada: From $604 (July 21-31, 2025)
- Boston to Ponta Delgada: From $555 (August 6-20, 2025)
- Denver to Ponta Delgada: From $825 (June 5-14, 2025)
Prices can change based on demand, travel dates, and how early you book. It’s a good idea to check United’s official website for the latest fares and availability.
United Airlines’ Growing Network in Portugal 🇵🇹
With these new and expanded flights, United Airlines will serve five destinations in Portugal 🇵🇹 during the summer of 2025. This is more than any other U.S. airline. Here’s a quick look at the full network:
- Lisbon (LIS):
- Daily, year-round flights from Newark
- Nearly daily, year-round flights from Washington D.C.
- Porto (OPO):
- Increasing from one to two daily flights from Newark
- Operated with Boeing 757-200 aircraft
- Ponta Delgada (PDL):
- Seasonal service from Newark (June 5-September 23, 2025)
- Five to seven flights per week, depending on the time of summer
- Operated with Boeing 737 MAX 8
- Funchal (FNC):
- New seasonal service from Newark (June 7-September 23, 2025)
- Three flights per week
- Operated with Boeing 737 MAX 8
- Faro (FAO):
- New seasonal service from Newark (May 16-September 22, 2025)
- Four flights per week
Increased Capacity:
United Airlines has increased the number of seats it offers between the United States 🇺🇸 and Portugal 🇵🇹 by 11% for 2025 compared to 2024. Since 2019, the airline has nearly doubled (98% increase) its capacity on these routes. This means more people can travel between the two countries, and there are more options for when and where to fly.
Why Is United Airlines Expanding in Portugal 🇵🇹?
There are several reasons for this big push:
- Growing Demand: Portugal 🇵🇹 is becoming more popular with American travelers. In 2024, the country’s tourism industry had a record year, and this trend is expected to continue.
- Unique Destinations: United is the only American airline offering direct flights to Porto, Ponta Delgada, Madeira Island, and Faro. This gives travelers more choices and makes it easier to visit different parts of Portugal 🇵🇹.
- Convenient Connections: United’s Newark hub connects to 89 airports across the United States 🇺🇸, Canada 🇨🇦, and Mexico. This means travelers from many cities can reach Portugal 🇵🇹 with just one stop.
- Open Jaw Itineraries: Travelers can fly into one Portuguese city and return from another. For example, you could fly to Faro to visit the Algarve region and return from Lisbon or Porto. This flexibility is great for people who want to explore more than one region.
Patrick Quayle, United’s Senior Vice President of Global Network Planning and Alliances, said, “No other airline gives customers nonstop access to as many unique international destinations and experiences from the U.S. as United.” This shows the airline’s focus on offering more choices for travelers.
What Does This Mean for Different Groups?
Tourists:
Travelers from the United States 🇺🇸 now have more direct ways to reach Portugal 🇵🇹, especially its beautiful islands. This saves time and makes trips easier to plan. The new flights to Funchal and more flights to Ponta Delgada mean you can visit these unique places without long layovers or extra connections.
Families and Friends:
For people with family or friends in Portugal 🇵🇹, these new routes make it easier to visit loved ones. Direct flights mean less travel time and fewer chances for delays or missed connections.
Students and Exchange Programs:
Students traveling for study abroad or exchange programs will benefit from more flight options, especially during the busy summer months. This can make it easier to find affordable tickets and convenient travel dates.
Business Travelers:
Businesspeople who need to travel between the United States 🇺🇸 and Portugal 🇵🇹 will have more choices for flights, which can help with scheduling meetings and events.
Portuguese Diaspora:
Many people in the United States 🇺🇸 have roots in Portugal 🇵🇹, especially in places like New Jersey, Massachusetts, and California. These new flights make it easier for the Portuguese community to stay connected with their heritage.
How to Prepare for Travel: Entry Requirements and Immigration
If you’re planning to travel from the United States 🇺🇸 to Portugal 🇵🇹, it’s important to know the entry requirements. As of now, U.S. citizens can visit Portugal 🇵🇹 for up to 90 days for tourism or business without a visa. However, starting in 2025, travelers from the United States 🇺🇸 will need to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization before entering most European countries, including Portugal 🇵🇹.
What is ETIAS?
ETIAS stands for European Travel Information and Authorization System. It’s not a visa, but it’s a required online application for travelers from visa-free countries. The process is simple and usually takes just a few minutes. You’ll need a valid passport, an email address, and a credit or debit card to pay the fee.
You can find more information and apply for ETIAS on the official European Union website.
Other Tips:
– Make sure your passport is valid for at least three months after your planned departure from Portugal 🇵🇹.
– Check the latest travel advisories and health requirements before you go.
– If you’re not a U.S. citizen, check with the Portuguese consulate or embassy for specific visa requirements.
Why Funchal and Ponta Delgada Matter
Funchal (Madeira):
Madeira is an island known for its natural beauty, mild climate, and friendly people. Funchal, the capital, is famous for its gardens, markets, and historic sites. The island is a favorite for hiking, wine tasting, and relaxing by the sea. Direct flights from the United States 🇺🇸 make it much easier for Americans to discover this special place.
Ponta Delgada (Azores):
The Azores are a group of nine volcanic islands in the Atlantic Ocean. Ponta Delgada is the largest city and a gateway to the region’s stunning lakes, hot springs, and green landscapes. The islands are perfect for nature lovers, adventure seekers, and anyone looking for a peaceful getaway.
By adding and expanding these routes, United Airlines is opening up new travel possibilities for Americans who want to experience something different from the usual European destinations.
The Bigger Picture: United Airlines’ International Growth
The new flights to Funchal and more service to Ponta Delgada are part of a larger plan by United Airlines to grow its international network. In summer 2025, United will offer 800 daily flights to 147 international destinations, including 40 places not served by any other American airline. This shows United’s goal to be the top choice for travelers looking to explore the world.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, United’s strategy is to offer more unique routes and destinations, giving travelers more reasons to choose United over other airlines. This is especially important as more people look for new travel experiences after the pandemic.
What Should Travelers Do Next?
If you’re thinking about visiting Portugal 🇵🇹 in summer 2025, here are some steps you can take now:
- Plan Early: With more flights and destinations, you have more options, but popular dates can sell out fast. Start planning your trip as soon as possible.
- Check Entry Requirements: Make sure you understand the ETIAS process and any other travel rules for Portugal 🇵🇹.
- Book Directly: Use United Airlines’ official website to find the latest schedules, prices, and special offers.
- Consider Open Jaw Trips: Take advantage of United’s network by flying into one city and out of another. This can help you see more of Portugal 🇵🇹 without backtracking.
- Stay Informed: Keep an eye on travel advisories and airline updates, especially as your travel dates get closer.
Conclusion: A New Era for U.S.-Portugal 🇵🇹 Travel
United Airlines’ new flights to Funchal and expanded service to Ponta Delgada mark an exciting time for travel between the United States 🇺🇸 and Portugal 🇵🇹. Whether you’re visiting family, exploring new places, or traveling for business, these changes make it easier and more convenient to connect across the Atlantic. With more choices, better connections, and new destinations, summer 2025 is shaping up to be a great time for anyone looking to experience the best of Portugal 🇵🇹.
For more official information on travel to Portugal 🇵🇹, including entry requirements and visa policies, visit the U.S. Department of State’s Portugal travel page.
By staying informed and planning ahead, travelers can make the most of these new opportunities and enjoy everything that Portugal 🇵🇹 has to offer.
Learn Today
Nonstop Flights → Flights that travel directly between two destinations without any layovers or stops.
Boeing 737 MAX 8 → A modern, fuel-efficient aircraft used by United Airlines for transatlantic and regional routes.
ETIAS → European Travel Information and Authorization System, required travel authorization for visa-free visitors to Europe starting 2025.
Open Jaw Itinerary → A travel plan flying into one city and returning from another, allowing flexible multi-destination trips.
Seasonal Service → Flight routes operating only during specific months, typically aligned with peak travel seasons.
This Article in a Nutshell
United Airlines expands summer 2025 routes to Portugal, introducing Newark-Funchal nonstop flights and boosting Ponta Delgada service. This growth enhances US-Portugal travel options, serving tourists, families, students, and business travelers, while offering unique island destinations and improved connectivity from the Newark hub for seamless transatlantic flights.
— By VisaVerge.com
