United Airlines reported a 30% increase in bookings to European destinations compared to 2019, reflecting growing interest among Americans in the continent’s Christmas markets. According to the company, consumers are prioritizing unique experiences during the holiday season, aligning with a Deloitte study that forecasts a 16% increase in spending on leisure activities this year.
European Christmas Markets: A Growing Attraction
European Christmas markets, renowned for their history and charm, are a tradition that draws millions of visitors annually. With offerings such as mulled wine, crafts, live music, and festive scenery, destinations like Vienna, Dresden, Strasbourg, and Cologne rank among the favorites for this season.
According to United, the airline will offer up to 60 daily flights from its U.S. hubs to Europe during November and December, connecting travelers to over 130 European cities through partnerships with the Lufthansa Group and the Deutsche Bahn rail network.
“European Christmas markets have become even more popular in recent years, and no airline makes it easier than United to visit them during the holidays,” said Darren Scott, United’s Managing Director of Atlantic and Hawaii Planning.
Connections and Featured Destinations
The airline highlighted that its schedule includes direct flights to key cities such as London, Paris, Brussels, Frankfurt, and Munich, as well as iconic destinations for Christmas markets. Key itinerary highlights include:
- Up to 60 daily flights to 16 European cities with Christmas markets, including Berlin, Frankfurt, Munich, Edinburgh, Zurich, Amsterdam, Brussels, London, and Paris.
- Connections to additional destinations such as Cologne, Helsinki, Salzburg, and Strasbourg through one-stop flights.
- Direct flights to Vienna, home to one of Europe’s most iconic markets, and the only airline offering year-round flights to Geneva and Berlin.
United expects to transport approximately 25 million passengers during the 2024 holiday period, representing a 6% increase compared to 2023.
Among the tools and services highlighted by the airline for this season are technologies such as ConnectionSaver, which helps passengers connect flights with greater flexibility, and Touchless ID, a facial recognition system available at select airports.
The airline also emphasized its readiness to operate under adverse weather conditions, including a fleet of 150 deicing trucks.
