United Airlines to Launch Cartagena Flights From Houston & Washington DC

United Airlines (Nasdaq: UAL) will become the first US carrier to operate nonstop flights from Houston and Washington to Cartagena, Colombia, with service from both hubs scheduled to begin December 17, the airline announced.

The flights will operate from George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH) in Houston and Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), connecting both cities to Cartagena’s Rafael Núñez International Airport (CTG). United plans year-round service on each route, beginning with four flights per week during the winter season. The launch is subject to government approval.

Cartagena will be United’s third destination in Colombia, complementing existing service to Bogotá and Medellín. The airline has operated in the country for more than three decades. United recently added a Medellín–Houston route and expanded Bogotá service to the New York metropolitan area.

“Colombia has been an important part of United’s Latin America network for more than 30 years, and our new service to Cartagena reflects our continued investment in the country and commitment to offering customers new and distinct travel experiences.” — Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President of Network Planning and Global Alliances, United Airlines

United said it offers more flights to Latin America than any other airline in both Texas and the Washington area, with nonstop service to 57 destinations from Houston and 18 from Dulles. The carrier said the new routes will connect Cartagena to more than 70 destinations across the US through its two hubs.

The Cartagena flights will be operated with a Boeing (NYSE: BA) 737. United said the aircraft offers seatback screens with Bluetooth connectivity at every seat and larger overhead bins, and that the airline plans to add free Starlink Wi-Fi for MileagePlus members. Lonely Planet named Cartagena a 2026 Best in Travel destination.

“Colombia has been an important part of United’s Latin America network for more than 30 years, and our new service to Cartagena reflects our continued investment in the country and commitment to offering customers new and distinct travel experiences,” said Patrick Quayle, senior vice president of network planning and global alliances at United Airlines. “As our third destination in Colombia, complementing our service to Bogota and Medellín, Cartagena gives our customers access to a different side of the country while making it easier for travelers across North America to experience one of the Caribbean’s most iconic destinations.”

“The architectural beauty, vibrant culture and thriving culinary scene are just a few reasons why travel experts say Cartagena should be on people’s bucket list this year,” said David Kinzelman, senior vice president and chief customer officer at United Airlines. “By flying direct, we’ll give our customers even more time to see the sights and along the way, they’ll enjoy all the value we pack into each flight — seatback screens, Bluetooth connections, larger overhead bins and a suite of tools to make the journey easier in the United app.”

Tickets are available on United.com and through the United app. The schedule below is subject to change.