United Airlines expands service to Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City

In July 2025, significant airline developments occurred in the Pacific regions as United Airlines and Delta Air Lines competed for market dominance. Notably, Delta Airlines announced its addition of new flights starting in December to Hong Kong as well as Chicago from Los Angeles, aiming to solidify its position as the leading carrier at Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Delta's strategic decision has roots in its commitment to enhancing customer experience, which it expressed in statements from senior executives, including Paul Baldoni. Concurrently, United Airlines, already established as the leading trans-Pacific carrier, announced its expansion plans. Effective in October, it will introduce flights to Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh City from Hong Kong, marking a pivotal step as the only U.S. airline offering these routes. Furthermore, in December, United will also expand its services from San Francisco to both Adelaide, Australia, and Manila, introducing a second daily flight. This expansion will allow United to offer service to 32 different cities within the Pacific region, greatly enhancing its competitive edge. Both airlines have reported strong growth in their Pacific routes, outpacing other regions. United reported an 8.7% growth in Pacific revenue, while Delta recorded an 11% increase. Analysts suggest that these regions are becoming increasingly lucrative for air travel, driven by factors such as currency fluctuations, resilient premium offerings, and effective partnerships. For instance, Delta’s joint venture with Korean Air has been a significant contributor to its revenue boost in South Korea, while United's collaboration with All Nippon Airways has bolstered its Pacific operations. The competitive landscape is marked by Delta’s current market share of 19.48% at LAX, compared to United's 15.49% and American Airlines' 15.21%. With both carriers expanding capacity—4% for Delta and 5.7% for United—there is a clear indication that the Pacific markets are viewed as growth areas. This situation highlights a dynamic environment where both airlines are keen on reinforcing their positions to cater to a growing passenger demand, especially for premium travel experiences, which have reportedly outperformed in terms of revenue generation. The backdrop of this competitive expansion reflects broader trends in the airline industry as companies adapt to the evolving market demands. In conclusion, as Dominance at leading airports and strategic route expansions become focal points, the competitive rivalry between Delta and United Airlines is set to intensify, particularly in the growing Pacific markets that offer new revenue possibilities.