United Airlines announced Thursday it will replace its entire Guam-based Boeing 737-800 fleet with new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft, with the first delivery scheduled for February 2026. The move is part of the airline’s broader strategy of modernizing its fleet and enhancing customer experience across its Pacific operations.
United is the only U.S. carrier offering intra-Asia services with daily flights from Manila to Guam, a twice-weekly Manila–Palau route, and daily service from Cebu to Tokyo-Narita — all operated by the Guam-based fleet. These routes serve as key links to the U.S. mainland via Guam and Japan.
Each new 737 MAX 8 will feature United’s signature interior, including seatback entertainment at every seat, Bluetooth connectivity, larger overhead bins, Wi-Fi (with Starlink to be rolled out fleetwide), and more premium seating options. The aircraft will offer 166 seats, including 16 in United First, and upgraded accessibility features.
“Our investment in new aircraft to service our intra-Asia routes will deliver the premium experience our customers expect,” said Kenichi Kiriyama, United Airlines’ Director of Sales – Asia, Micronesia. “For customers with connecting flights to or from the mainland U.S., these investments will mean a consistent, seamless experience from check-in to landing.”
The fleet renewal supports United’s leadership in trans-Pacific connectivity, including 30 nonstop U.S.–Philippines flights weekly. Its Manila–San Francisco route will increase to twice daily starting October 26.
