UNITED AIRLINES TO LAUNCH FLIGHTS TO MONGOLIA

In 2023, Mongolia and the United States signed a long-anticipated “Open Sky” agreement after more than 20 years of negotiations. This intergovernmental aviation deal paved the way for stronger air connectivity between the two countries. Consequently, United Airlines, one of the United States’ leading carriers, has officially commenced flights to Mongolia.

On May 1, 2025, United Airlines operated its inaugural flight on the Tokyo–Ulaanbaatar route using a Boeing 737-800 aircraft.

As a result of Mongolia’s policy to liberalize its aviation sector, 16 international airlines—including Turkish Airlines, Korean Air, Asiana Airlines, and Air China—currently operate in the country, alongside five domestic carriers. With United Airlines entering the market, the number of foreign airlines operating in Mongolia has risen to 17.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Mongolia, in collaboration with other relevant agencies, is working to obtain a Category 1 safety rating from the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA). Once this certification is secured, Mongolia’s national carrier, MIAT, will be eligible to launch direct flights to the United States—potentially within 2025.

Establishing direct flights between Mongolia and the United States will not only strengthen bilateral ties but also reduce airfare costs and provide a significant boost to the tourism sector.