United Airlines announced it will initiate four weekly nonstop flights between Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) and Ibiza Airport (IBZ) starting 31 May 2027. This will mark the first direct scheduled air service between the New York metropolitan area and Ibiza. The return service from Ibiza to Newark will start on 1 June 2027, with flights operating through early October 2027.
Aircraft Type and Seating Configuration
The airline will deploy its Airbus A321XLR, a long-range single-aisle aircraft, for this route. The cabin will offer 32 premium seats, including 20 United Polaris suites equipped with privacy doors and advanced 4K OLED entertainment screens. An additional 12
Premium Plus seats will be available. Starlink Wi-Fi access will be provided for MileagePlus members.
Seasonal Operation and Route Exclusivity
The seasonal service will operate from 31 May to 7 October 2027 departing Newark on Mondays, Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, while return flights from Ibiza will operate on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Fridays, and Sundays until 8 October 2027. United Airlines will be the only U.S. carrier offering nonstop flights on this transatlantic route.
Elimination of European Connections and Network Benefits
This direct flight removes the previous requirement for American passengers to connect through European hubs such as Madrid, Barcelona, London, or Paris to reach Ibiza. Newark’s role as a major United hub enables
passengers across North America to access Ibiza through a single connection point. The new route will open direct transatlantic access for leisure and business travelers on both ends.
Growth of U.S. Market and Tourism Impact
Ibiza tourism data shows a 21% increase in U.S. visitors in May 2026 compared to May 2025, alongside 4.9 million online searches for Ibiza from the United States during the first half of 2026. North American visitors accounted for approximately 5.2% of Ibiza’s international arrivals between April and October 2025. Tourism authorities view the direct flight as a strategic tool to diversify the island’s visitor base beyond nightlife, highlighting interest in culture,
gastronomy, and leisure experiences.
United’s International Network Expansion
This new Ibiza service is part of United Airlines’ largest international expansion, adding a total of 10 new summer 2027 destinations across Europe and Asia. From Newark, United will also start flights to Valencia, Marseille, Terceira, Ljubljana, Olbia, Catania, and Luxembourg. The Newark-Valencia route will begin on 2 June 2027 with three weekly flights. Since 2017, United has added 58 international destinations, now serving over 160 worldwide.
Official Statements and Route Status
United Airlines describes this route as an integral part of its record international growth. Ibiza’s tourism director confirmed that attracting the U.S. market is a strategic objective, with emphasis
on the island’s broader cultural and leisure appeal. The Ibiza and Formentera Hotel Federation welcomed the Newark connection as a gateway for American and other travelers from the Americas. Tickets for the Newark-Ibiza service are available on United’s website and app, pending government approvals.
