United Airlines launches direct flights from Faro and Funchal to New York in 2025
As Donald Trump sweeps to power in the US, it is anticipated that many disgruntled Democrats may be looking to relocate, and what better place than the Algarve, with a new direct flight from Faro to New York starting in 2025?
The much-anticipated direct flights from the US will finally commence next year. Initially promised for this year, the delay was caused by increased regulation by the US Federal Aviation Administration. It will be interesting to see what impact this, along with the US election results, will have on the Algarve.
“We are excited to announce this further expansion of our route network from Portugal to the U.S. and United’s first-ever service from Faro to New York,” said Jose Ferreira, the airline’s Country Sales Manager for Portugal.
In an interview with Tomorrow magazine, the minister for Algarve tourism André Gomes, reported that he was already seeing increased investment in the region by businesses from the US.
According to the news from the newspaper O Público on 1 October, United Airlines will be the first and only American airline to offer direct flights between the two Portuguese airports and New York.
A spokesman for the airline said, “The new flights will make it easy for U.S. customers to visit Portugal’s Algarve region, home to some of the country’s most scenic beaches and striking historic sites,” the American airline says in a statement. “The connection will also allow those travelling from the US to connect to the Algarve via our US hubs to other destinations across the American continent.”
Earlier this month, the Algarve’s tourism boss said in an interview with the Resident that attracting direct air links with markets such as the US was vital.
Although the UK remains the primary inbound market at 19.1%, Portuguese statistics released in May showed the North American market in third place (share of 10.1%), with an increase of 17.3%, overtaking the French market (representing 9.2%).
In addition to the Algarve seeing an increase in visitors due to the influx of American tourists, the influx of American expats has had a significant impact on the property market in Portugal. In recent years, Portugal has become a popular destination for Americans looking to relocate or retire overseas. With its stunning landscapes, rich history, and excellent quality of life, it’s no wonder that more and more people are choosing to make Portugal their new home.
As demand for housing has increased, so too have property prices. Prices have steadily risen in popular expat areas such as Lisbon, Porto, and the Algarve as more Americans and other international buyers compete for limited inventory.
The direct seasonal service between Faro and New York/Newark airports will be operated by Boeing 757-200 aircraft with a capacity for 176 passengers. It will depart from the USA on Mondays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 9.35pm until 22 September and leave the Algarve on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays at 11.40am until the 23rd of the same month.
This strategic expansion positions United as the first US carrier to offer direct flights from Faro and Funchal on Madeira to the U.S.
The connection to Madeira will be operated by Boeing 737 Max 8 aircraft, with a capacity of 116 passengers. Departures will start on 5 June, on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays from New York/Newark at 9.50 pm until 23 September 2025; returns from Funchal will be on Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays at 11.30 am until 24 September.
United Airlines is actively expanding its global reach with the announcement of its largest international growth initiative, which will launch next summer.
This has created some challenges for buyers looking to purchase property in Portugal, as competition can be fierce and prices can be high. However, it also presents opportunities for sellers who are looking to capitalise on the increased demand for homes in Portugal.
If you are considering making a move to Portugal, now may be a good time to start exploring your options in the property market. Sadler´s new partnership with Knight Frank now means that we can help you with your property requirements throughout Portugal, whether you are looking for a pied de terre in Lisbon, a seafront villa in the Algarve, or a countryside retreat in the Douro Valley, there are plenty of opportunities waiting for you in this beautiful country.
Our real estate agency specialises in helping expats find their dream home in Portugal. Our team of experienced agents can help you navigate the competitive market and find the perfect property for your needs. So why wait? Contact us today and let’s start your journey to Portugal together!
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