United Airlines vs Continental Airlines

Overview

United Airlines is a major airline headquartered at Willis Tower in Chicago, Illinois. According to Wikipedia, it was formed in 1931 as a subsidiary of United Aircraft and Transport Corporation, which controlled a group of airmail carriers assembled by William Boeing. It is a subsidiary of United Airlines Holdings (Nasdaq: UAL) and was one of the five founding members of Star Alliance. Scott Kirby is chief executive. The airline reported revenue of US$59.1 billion for 2025.

Network and hubs

United serves around 405 destinations across six continents. Its hubs are Chicago–O'Hare, Denver, Guam, Houston–Intercontinental, Los Angeles, Newark, San Francisco and Washington–Dulles. Regional services are flown by independent carriers under the United Express brand. Through Star Alliance and its partners, the network extends further worldwide. Over the years United acquired Pan Am's Pacific routes (1985), its London Heathrow operation (1991) and its Latin America and Caribbean routes.

Fleet

As of September 2026, the United Airlines fleet consists of 1,137 mainline aircraft, the largest of any airline worldwide, according to Wikipedia citing Cirium. It operates a mix of Airbus and Boeing narrow-bodies and an all-Boeing wide-body fleet, with more wide-bodies than any other North American airline. Regional aircraft operated by United Express partners are not included in that figure.

On board

Cabin layouts, seat pitch, entertainment and Wi-Fi vary by aircraft type and route. These details were not verified for this profile, so check the United website for the aircraft on your flight.

Good to know

• Frequent-flyer programme: MileagePlus, which is linked to Star Alliance status benefits.
• Baggage allowances, change fees and lounge access depend on fare, route and status. Check the current rules on united.com before booking.
• Star Alliance membership allows connections and lounge access with partner airlines for eligible passengers.

Global Network and Operations

Continental Airlines once operated a wide-reaching network connecting North America to Europe, Asia, and Latin America. Its fleet included popular aircraft like the Boeing 737, 757, 767, and 777, serving hundreds of destinations globally. Continental’s operational hubs were primarily situated in key U.S. cities:
• Houston George Bush Intercontinental Airport (IAH)
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE)
• Guam’s A.B. Won Pat International Airport (GUM)

Innovation and Milestones

Throughout its history, Continental Airlines was recognized for several aviation innovations and milestones:
• One of the first U.S. carriers to introduce online ticketing in the mid-1990s.
• Implemented one of the industry’s earliest real-time flight tracking systems.
• Participated in pioneering efforts to reduce carbon emissions and implemented enhanced fuel efficiency programs.
• In 2010, merged with United Airlines to form one of the world’s largest airlines, reshaping the U.S. aviation landscape.

Customer Experience and Recognition

Continental Airlines offered multiple cabin classes including Economy, BusinessFirst (business class), and First Class on select aircraft, emphasizing comfort and service. The airline was lauded for quality inflight entertainment systems, including seat-back screens and a broad selection of programming. Continental’s customer service was recognized with awards such as:

• J.D. Power and Associates Awards for customer satisfaction.
• Multiple Skytrax recognition for in-flight service and cabin comfort.

Future Outlook

Though Continental Airlines ceased operations as a separate brand after the 2010 merger with United Airlines, its legacy continues as part of United's extensive network. The combined airline plans ongoing fleet modernization, expansion of transpacific routes, and further improvements in sustainability and passenger experience moving forward.