United Airlines Is Adding A New Flight To This Tourist Destination Growing In Popularity

United has been an airline that is leading the way for other airlines, as they have steadily been expanding their technology and destination routes all over the world. On December 11, 2025, they will become the first airline to carry direct flights to four Australian cities. Currently, the airline hosts direct flights to Brisbane Airport (BNE) , Melbourne Airport (MEL), and Sydney Airport (SYD). This winter, they will be adding a direct flight from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Adelaide, Australia. United Airlines' Managing Director, Sam Shinohara, proudly proclaimed in a statement, "This game-changing new flight will add almost 25,000 more seats between the US and Australia each year and makes United the only airline to offer nonstop service between the US and four major cities in Australia."

Adelaide, an underrated Australian coastal town, has seen a boost in tourism over the past few years, particularly with domestic travelers. Now, Americans will be able to access this city in the Southern Hemisphere more easily on the 16-hour direct flight. The flight will be offered seasonally, from December to March, with the possibility for year-round service if demand is high enough.

The need for this flight comes from a significant uptick in Adelaide tourism over the past few years. In 2023, Adelaide brought in 3.4 million visitors who stayed more than one night, of which 11% were international travelers. While this seems like a small fraction, this number still represents about 400,000 people visiting Adelaide from overseas. Now, with a newer, more accessible flight, Adelaide will be able to attract even more tourists come 2026.

Until now, Adelaide could have been considered somewhat of a "detour destination," a growing travel trend for people who plan to visit popular destinations in Australia. For instance, if someone were visiting Sydney or Melbourne, they could also incorporate a weekend in Adelaide to explore more of what Australia has to offer. However, Adelaide could soon situate itself among the top Australian cities for tourists with this new seasonal route. In fact, Adelaide has just as much to offer as the tourist hotspots everyone knows and loves.

If you're planning to take advantage of United's new flight from SFO to ADL, here are some tips to keep in mind while planning your trip. While the flight will cost you the big bucks (about $1,000 round trip in economy), accommodations in Adelaide are pleasantly affordable. Airbnb offers several options between $300 and $700 for a five-night stay. There is also no shortage of tourist attractions across the city. You can stroll through the Adelaide Central Market, taking in the smells of the fresh fruit stalls or swinging by on a Friday night for the vibrant restaurant scene. Try an array of baked goods and treats to sneak back home in your checked bag. (But remember there are some foods you should never try to bring home after an international trip.) The Adelaide Botanic Garden is another must-see, with sprawling flora and greenhouse architecture to explore. Plus, admission is free!

Learn about the country and state's cultural history at the South Australian Museum, as it is home to the largest collection of Aboriginal cultural artifacts. A trip to Adelaide wouldn't be complete without visiting some animals. Cuddle a koala at the Gorge Wildlife Park or see Australia's only giant pandas at the Adelaide Zoo. For a more immersive experience, you can take a boat ride out to Kangaroo Island and get the chance to spot wild kangaroos. It's one of the best places around the world to see rare wildlife up close.