United to Launch Daily Direct Flights between San Francisco and Costa Rica

United Airlines has announced a new daily direct route between San Francisco International Airport (SFO) and Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO), starting May 22, 2025. The flight will depart San Francisco at 11:34 p.m., arriving in Costa Rica at 7:15 a.m. The return flight will leave SJO at 8:45 a.m. and land in San Francisco at 2:34 p.m., operated on a Boeing 737-MAX8.

Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism, William Rodríguez, emphasized the importance of this new route in strengthening connectivity with the United States, the country’s largest source market. “This direct flight expands opportunities for American tourists, who are drawn to Costa Rica’s nature, outdoor activities, and sustainable tourism offerings. It could also improve connectivity for Canadian travelers,” Rodríguez stated.

United Airlines now connects San José with all seven of its U.S. hubs, reinforcing its position as the leading U.S. carrier to Costa Rica and Central America. Frederick Thome, United’s Director of Sales for Central America and the Andean Region, highlighted the airline’s 34-year commitment to Costa Rica, ensuring broader travel options for customers.

Ricardo Hernández, Executive Director of AERIS, the airport operator, noted that the new route marks a milestone in connecting Costa Rica with the U.S. West Coast. He emphasized the collaboration with United Airlines and the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT) to enhance accessibility and strengthen commercial and tourism ties between both destinations.

San Francisco is one of the top U.S. cities with travelers showing high interest in visiting Costa Rica. According to the ICT’s latest study, the primary demographic includes professionals aged 29-39, earning between $100,000 and $150,000 annually, who are drawn to nature, cultural experiences, and sustainable tourism.

From January to August 2024, 1.95 million tourists arrived in Costa Rica by air, with the U.S. accounting for over 1.2 million visitors. Representing 53.6% of total arrivals, the U.S. market peaks between December-March and June-July, reinforcing the importance of expanding flight options for continued tourism growth.