United Airlines Begins Boeing 737 MAX Rollout in Guam

‍CHICAGO — United Airlines (UA) unveiled its first Guam-based Boeing 737-8 aircraft on Friday in a first-look event, marking the beginning of a refresh and an improved passenger experience for the airline’s Pacific fleet.

United’s Guam-based fleet currently consists of 10 Boeing 737-800s and will be replaced by 10 737-8s by the end of 2026. The new aircraft includes the airline’s signature “Next” interiors featuring seatback inflight entertainment, wireless Bluetooth connectivity, and larger overhead bins.

While UA is adding free Starlink Wi-Fi to its fleet, these new jets will not include the system. The Guam-based fleet Wi-Fi will be powered by Viasat and available for purchase.

The carrier adds that there are already two Boeing 737-8s in Guam, N17302 and N27304, which have been operating throughout the region with the improved onboard product.

United’s Pacific Network

UA’s expansive Pacific network dates back to its merger with Continental Airlines. The 2010 merger saw the airline take over its Pacific network, further allowing UA to connect the continental United States, Micronesia, and Asia.

“Guam has long played an important role in our Pacific network, both as a destination and for connecting communities across Micronesia with Asia and the continental United States,” said Patrick Quayle, Senior Vice President – Global Network Planning and Alliances, United Airlines. 

The airline will first begin regularly deploying the 737-8 on select flights to Tokyo Narita (NRT) on April 30, in time for Japan’s major Golden Week holiday. All United flights out of NRT, Saipan (SPN), and Yap (YAP) are expected to be operated by the new jets by late August.

“The introduction of the Boeing 737 MAX 8 helps us deliver a more consistent and reliable experience for customers traveling to the 15 destinations we serve throughout the region,” Quayle added. “We’re proud to invest in Guam and provide local customers and visitors with a premium experience that customers deserve and expect from us.”