Winnipeg Airports Authority is excited to share that United Airlines has announced plans to bring its Chicago and Denver routes back to Winnipeg Richardson International Airport.
Non-stop service is scheduled to begin May 23, 2024, with daily flights to and from both Chicago and Denver – two of the airline’s biggest airport hubs. The return of these routes, which were paused at the start of the COVID-19 pandemic, shows WAA’s commitment to working with its partners to land more connections to more places that matter to the community.
“Bringing back United’s non-stop service to Chicago and Denver has been among the top priorities for our team as, in talking with Manitobans, we’ve heard just how much these two routes mean to them,” said WAA President & CEO Nick Hays. “Not only do they provide more choice and more convenience for travellers from across our region to explore the world, but also unlock more opportunities to help fuel our economy.”
Air connectivity plays a crucial role in the growth and success of the community, bringing trade, tourism, and new business, enabling the region to thrive. Among those that stand to benefit from the routes is Manitoba’s hunting and fishing industry. According to Travel Manitoba, 57% of the province’s outfitted fishing clients and 89% of outfitted hunting clients are American, many of whom travel to Manitoba by air. In 2019, this sector increased the provincial gross domestic product by $412 million.
“International travel to Manitoba plays a vital role in the recovery of the hunting and fishing sector throughout our province,” said Maureen Hrechkosy, President of the Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters Association. “The Manitoba Lodges and Outfitters is grateful for the hard work at WAA and their continued support in the success of our resilient tourism industry.”
The return of United’s service to Chicago and Denver will put the community’s connectivity in a stronger position than before, as travellers will be able to directly access six U.S. destinations year-round from YWG – the highest number in the airport’s history.
