
NewsGallura
United Airlines Expands Mediterranean Reach with Direct Newark–Olbia Route Starting May 2027
United Airlines has announced a major expansion of its international network for the 2027 summer season, highlighting a new seasonal nonstop connection between New York/Newark (EWR) and Olbia Costa Smeralda Airport (OLB) in Sardinia. Scheduled to launch on May 27, 2027, the route will operate three times weekly utilizing a Boeing 767-300ER aircraft. This milestone route reinforces the growing international demand for Sardinia. United joins Delta Air Lines, which introduced direct JFK-to-Olbia connections in 2026. Combined, the two major carriers will provide daily direct flights from the New York metropolitan area to northeastern Sardinia throughout the peak summer season. The addition of United’s Newark hub unlocks seamless single-connection access to Sardinia for travelers originating across North America. For the island’s tourism and hospitality sectors—particularly short-term rentals and boutique accommodations across Gallura and the Costa Smeralda—the increased transatlantic connectivity is expected to boost occupancy, extend the shoulder season into May and September, and drive higher average daily spend.
26 August 2026
Source: CNBC
