Thursday, May 29, 2025

Singapore Airlines, All Nippon Airways (ANA), and Continental Airlines—now part of United—have played a pivotal role in fueling Munich Airport’s rise as a global aviation hub. Over the past fifteen years, their consistent intercontinental services, strategic partnerships, and reliable cargo and passenger operations have reinforced Munich’s position as a trusted gateway connecting Europe with Asia and North America.

Munich Airport proudly marks fifteen years of continuous cooperation with three of the world’s leading Star Alliance carriers—United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and All Nippon Airways (ANA). These long-standing partnerships have played a critical role in strengthening Munich’s position as a premier international aviation hub. Through reliable operations, growing passenger volumes, and efficient cargo handling, these airlines have elevated the airport’s global significance.

In March 2010, Continental Airlines launched the nonstop route connecting Munich to New York-Newark. Following Continental’s merger, United Airlines took over the route and has operated it ever since. Over the past fifteen years, United has completed approximately 10,800 flights between the two cities. The airline has transported nearly two million passengers and more than 41,500 tons of cargo. Currently, United operates this transatlantic service using a Boeing 767-400 with a seating capacity of 235.

Building on this route’s success, United steadily expanded its presence in Munich. The airline added direct services to major U.S. cities including Chicago, Washington, Houston, Denver, and San Francisco. This growth demonstrates United’s continued investment in the Munich market and highlights the airport’s appeal as a strategic base for intercontinental connectivity.

In the same year, Singapore Airlines began its passenger flight operations at Munich Airport. The carrier already had a presence through its dedicated cargo services that linked Munich to Singapore, India, and the United States. Initially, Singapore Airlines operated a passenger route with a stopover in Manchester using a Boeing 777. By October 2016, the airline upgraded the service to a nonstop connection, underscoring its confidence in Munich’s viability as a gateway to Southeast Asia.

Since launching, Singapore Airlines has completed nearly 10,000 flights from Munich and has flown around 1.7 million passengers. It has also handled close to 96,000 tons of freight on this route. Notably, during the height of the pandemic, Singapore Airlines prioritized Munich as one of its first reconnected European destinations, reaffirming the strategic importance of this partnership. The airline now operates the Munich-Singapore route with an Airbus A350-900, offering enhanced fuel efficiency, passenger comfort, and cargo capacity.

All Nippon Airways joined Munich Airport’s intercontinental portfolio in July 2010. Initially, ANA operated daily services to Tokyo-Narita. In 2014, the airline switched operations to Tokyo-Haneda, a move that significantly improved passenger convenience due to its proximity to central Tokyo. Over the years, ANA has firmly established its presence, operating around 8,200 flights from Munich. The airline has flown approximately 1.4 million travelers and carried more than 128,000 tons of cargo on this route.

ANA currently uses the advanced Boeing 787-9 Dreamliner for its Munich flights. Known for its lower emissions and quiet cabin, the Dreamliner ensures a comfortable and environmentally responsible long-haul journey for passengers traveling between Europe and Japan.

Together, these three airlines have built a track record of operational excellence and strategic vision. Their sustained presence at Munich Airport demonstrates a shared commitment to high-quality service, market stability, and passenger satisfaction. The airport’s modern infrastructure, efficient operations, and geographically central location have made it an ideal base for these carriers to grow their long-haul networks.

Munich Airport offers seamless connections through its two-terminal layout and passenger-friendly amenities. Efficient ground handling and smooth intermodal links contribute to quick transfers and reduced delays. Over the past decade and a half, the airport has continuously upgraded its systems to accommodate the needs of global carriers, including advanced cargo terminals and expanded lounges.

The success of these partnerships also highlights the importance of air freight. All three carriers play a crucial role in transporting goods across Europe, North America, and Asia. With increased demand for global e-commerce, pharmaceuticals, and high-value products, Munich serves as a vital logistics node that keeps supply chains running efficiently.

This fifteenth-anniversary celebration serves as more than just a milestone. It reflects how collaborative airline strategies and consistent investment in quality infrastructure can drive long-term success in the aviation industry. These alliances with United Airlines, Singapore Airlines, and ANA have delivered significant economic and connectivity benefits—not only for Munich but also for passengers, cargo operators, and regional businesses.

As Munich Airport looks toward the future, its continued collaboration with these global carriers will remain central to its vision. The airport plans to further enhance its role in the Star Alliance network and strengthen its intercontinental links. With sustainability, innovation, and passenger experience at the forefront, Munich aims to set new benchmarks for aviation excellence.

Singapore Airlines, ANA, and Continental Airlines have driven Munich Airport’s growth by providing fifteen years of consistent long-haul connectivity, boosting both passenger traffic and global cargo operations.

Through fifteen years of trust, shared goals, and high performance, Munich Airport and its airline partners have built a foundation for enduring growth. This powerful trio of partnerships demonstrates what long-term vision and mutual success can achieve in the dynamic world of international aviation.