Costa Rica and the United States strengthen their connectivity with a new direct route between San José and San Francisco

This Friday, the inaugural flight of the new direct route between San José, Costa Rica, and San Francisco, United States, operated by United Airlines, arrived at Juan Santamaría International Airport (AIJS). The opening of this connection marks a new milestone in air connectivity between the two countries, especially with the U.S. West Coast, a region of growing interest for outbound tourism to Costa Rica.

The new flight will operate daily starting May 23, using Boeing 737-MAX8 aircraft with capacity for 166 passengers. This initiative is the result of strategic coordination between AERIS—the company managing the AIJS—United Airlines, and the Costa Rican Tourism Institute (ICT), with the goal of consolidating Costa Rica as a competitive and accessible destination for international travelers.

During the welcoming ceremony, passengers were greeted with gifts representative of the country and a folk dance performance, as a demonstration of local hospitality and culture.

According to ICT figures, more than 53% of international tourists entering the country by air come from the United States, underscoring the importance of this market for the national tourism sector. In the first four months of the year alone, more than 1.2 million U.S. citizens arrived in the country by air.

The new connection also aligns with the interests of California travelers, identified by their preference for sustainable destinations, outdoor experiences, and a strong appreciation for cultural authenticity. From now on, Costa Rica is directly connected to the seven hubs that United Airlines maintains in the United States, strengthening the airline's presence in the country and reaffirming its 35-year commitment to the region.

In addition to its impact on the tourism sector, this direct route expands opportunities for commercial, academic, and cultural exchange between the two destinations. The city of San Francisco, in particular, stands out for its high-income visitor profile and affinity for ecotourism and sustainability.

The opening of this new link is part of AERIS's strategic plan to diversify the destination network from the AIJS, promoting national economic development through public-private partnerships that boost air connectivity and the country's competitiveness as a global destination.