United Airlines announces service at Tri-Cities Airport

BLOUNTVILLE — The Tri-Cities Airport is adding United Airlines to its air service options next year, according to a recent release. United Airlines announced Friday it will start nonstop service to Chicago O'Hare International Airport from the Tri-Cities Airport on June 8, 2026. The route will operate three times a day, with tickets now available. "We are thrilled to welcome United Airlines as a new partner at TRI," Gene Cossey, president and CEO of Tri-Cities Airport, said in the release. "Each addition to our airport brings more growth and opportunity for the region, and this new nonstop service to Chicago O'Hare gives travelers even more options when flying local." According to the release United Airlines offers more flights to more than 380 destinations around the world and serves 75 destinations that no other U.S. legacy carrier reaches. The new air service will operate using a Bombardier CRJ-550 aircraft with dual-class configuration. "Our new daily nonstop flights between the Tri-Cities area and Chicago give the Tri-Cities community greater connectivity to Chicago and United's leading route network as the world's largest airline," Mark Weithofer, United's managing director of domestic network planning, said in the release. "These new flights also give our customers from around the globe access to the natural beauty of Northeast Tennessee and all it has to offer." This announcement comes a day after the airport announced American Airlines' Chicago flight coming May 21, 2026 to the region. "It's clear the demand for this connection is high, and we've built a welcoming environment where people truly want to do business and spend time here," said Alicia Phelps, Northeast Tennessee Tourism Association executive director. "Whether they're visiting for work or to explore our mountains and culture, we're ready to show you the very best of the area." Trevor Rice, director of marketing and air service development, called the new service a "significant win" for the region. "United Airlines' entry to TRI increases overall seat capacity in our market, strengthens competition, and gives travelers more connectivity through one of the nation's largest hub airports," Rice said in the release. "Ultimately, that means more choice, better schedules, and more affordable fares for our passengers — all while reinforcing the importance of flying local." The latest announcement means the airport now nonstop flights to Atlanta, Charlotte, Dallas/Fort Worth, Orlando, St. Pete-Clearwater, Chicago and Washington, D.C utilizing Allegiant Air, American Airlines, Breeze Airways, Delta Airlines and United Airlines. "Getting the Breeze flight in here, and along with all the other efforts from the airport and other regional partners, is what's making this an attractive place to operate out of," said John Rose, BRIDGE executive director. "The opportunities that it brings for businesses and leisure travelers alike is really going to increase with these two announcements." For more information about the Tri-Cities Airport, visit https://flytri.com/.