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Houston, United has lift-off from Sydney: Direct flights launch

"Houston, we have lift off." That's what United pilots would have proudly stated (we imagine) over the weekend when the airline launched its newest service from Sydney.

“Houston, we have lift off.” That’s what United pilots would have proudly stated (we imagine) over the weekend when the airline launched its newest service from Sydney.

Flight UA100 took off from Sydney Airport on a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner at 11.50am on Saturday, marking the airline’s third direct service out of NSW’s capital (after San Francisco and Los Angeles).

In addition to expanding United’s network Down Under, the new route also offers Aussies more choice for travel to the great south beyond Qantas’ direct Sydney-Dallas service.

United 787 from Sydney 3

Speaking at the launch, United’s Vice President of International Network, Patrick Quayle, said the airline is excited to give Sydneysiders access to an additional service into the US and easier access to other cities across the US as well as Central and South America.

“Australians will also be able to enjoy the benefits of United’s Houston hub, which has recently undergone extensive renovations to offer even more benefits for travelers.”

Patrick Quayle, United Vice President of International Network

United 787 from Sydney 2

Sydney Airport’s Chief Executive, Geoff Culbert, added that he expects the route to increase visitation to the US as well as Down Under.

United’s daily service leaves Sydney at 11.50am to arrive at Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport at 10.30am the same day. The return flight departs at 8.00pm to arrive in Sydney at 6.30am.

United 787 from Sydney

The service is operated by the carrier’s Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner with a total of 252 seats, including 48 flat-bed seats, 63 Economy Plus seats and 141 seats in United Economy.

READ: Airline rivalry heats up between Australia & the US

READ: United to fly non-stop from Houston to Sydney

Would you rather fly Qantas or United to Texas?