United Airlines has launched its non-stop flights between Adelaide and San Francisco, directly linking the South Australian capital with the US for the first time.

The inaugural service touched down at Adelaide Airport yesterday, with the three-times-weekly seasonal service providing South Australian travellers with one-stop access to more than 40 destinations across the US and more than 100 cities worldwide.

The launch positions United as the first airline to operate nonstop flights between the US and Adelaide, expanding its Australian network alongside existing services to Sydney, Melbourne and Brisbane. The route is operated using a Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner.

Celebrations to mark the historic arrival were held at Adelaide Airport, attended by representatives from United Airlines, the South Australian Government, the South Australian Tourism Commission and the US Embassy in Australia.

Adelaide Airport described the launch as “a major milestone for tourism, trade and global connectivity,” and “a core connection in our aviation network that has been decades in the making.”

Thehe inaugural aircraft features a special “Adelaide” stamp design, which will fly across United’s global network in the coming weeks, showcasing the city to international audiences.

United announced the Adelaide route in April as part of a broader expansion of its Pacific network, which also includes new services to Bangkok, Ho Chi Minh City and increased flights to Manila. With these additions, the airline now offers flights to 32 destinations across the Pacific.