United Airlines Expands Midwest, California Routes from Chicago and Regional Airports in 2026

United Airlines is significantly expanding its network with several new and reinstated routes starting in 2026, demonstrating strong growth especially at its Chicago O’Hare hub. The airline will launch nonstop flights from McClellan-Palomar Airport in Carlsbad to San Francisco and Denver, marking its return to Carlsbad after nearly a decade. Additionally, United will start three daily flights connecting Rochester International Airport with Chicago O’Hare, enhancing regional connectivity and access to over 180 destinations. United secured five new gates at O’Hare, enabling the launch of ten new destinations and increased service to existing routes, solidifying its dominant position at the airport against competitors. The airline is also reviving nine regional routes from Chicago, including to Santa Barbara, Eugene, and Monterey, restoring service to previously underutilized markets and expanding its Midwest and West Coast presence. This expansion underscores United’s commitment to growing both major and smaller domestic markets through strategic gate acquisitions and targeted route development.