United Will Launch Nonstop Flights to Cartagena
Beginning December 17, 2026, the airline will add four weekly flights to the Colombian city from two major U.S. hubs.
Updated on Oct. 14, 2026 in Air Travel
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United Airlines will expand its South American reach with new year-round nonstop routes to Cartagena, Colombia, departing from Houston and Washington Dulles starting December 17, 2026. The new service will provide connections to 70 U.S. cities via these two major hubs.
Why it matters
These routes represent a strategic expansion of United's presence in Colombia, where it has already served Bogotá and Medellín for 30 years. The service aims to streamline travel for U.S. visitors, though travelers must navigate current safety guidance.
United will operate four flights per week on each route using Boeing 737 aircraft, serving passengers from 70 U.S. cities. Travelers may stay in Colombia for up to 90 days without a visa, with a maximum cumulative stay of 180 days per calendar year.
The players
United Airlines
A major U.S. carrier that provides extensive domestic and international flight services.
State Department
The federal executive department responsible for managing U.S. foreign policy and travel advisories.
The details
Flights are scheduled for Tuesdays, Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays on both routes. Passengers must complete a Check-MIG form via the national immigration agency between 1 and 72 hours before their flight, and should be aware that the U.S. State Department currently rates Colombia at a Level 3 Reconsider Travel status.
Timeline
29 June 2026: United announced the two routes from Chicago.
17 December 2026: First nonstop flights to Cartagena depart.
19 December 2026: Second scheduled flight departs.
20 December 2026: Third scheduled flight departs.
Travel Outlook
This route launch signals a continued investment in Colombian tourism despite the regional security landscape monitored by the U.S. State Department's Travel Advisory System. Airlines often balance such expansion against varying security levels to capitalize on long-term travel demand.
Travelers should book tickets directly through the United website or mobile app to manage their itineraries. You must complete the mandatory Check-MIG form via the Colombia national immigration agency to ensure a smooth arrival process.
The takeaway
Travelers visiting Cartagena should ensure they are familiar with current visa-free stay limits and the required immigration documentation. Always check the latest safety advisories before booking travel to regions categorized as Level 3 by the State Department.
What happens next
Government agencies are expected to finalize the flight schedules for the new routes closer to the December 17, 2026, launch date.
Further reading
Learn more about international route expansions in our Air Travel section.
More information
Complete your mandatory registration using the Colombia national immigration agency form.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Rio Times.
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