Wise Flyer · No. 15
Question
Which new routes should I watch for the best deals?
With all the new route announcements from Delta, United, and others, which ones are actually worth getting excited about for better value and convenience on my frequent trips?
Read in another voice
WiseFlyer
Delta is betting big on Austin. The airline is expected to announce Austin–Paris nonstop for summer 2027, plus Austin–San Diego. Delta has already surpassed American as the second-largest carrier in Austin, and it’s building a 30,000-square-foot Sky Club there, with plans to convert the current club into a Delta One lounge for international growth. If you fly out of Austin, this Paris route—along with existing KLM service to Amsterdam—gives you more nonstop options to Europe. The catch: these flights aren’t here yet. The Paris route is for 2027, and the new concourse won’t arrive until the 2030s. For now, watch for introductory award space or promotional fares once bookings open.
Out West, United is adding two new nonstop routes from San Francisco. Starting October 25, it reinstates daily San Francisco–Cincinnati service on a Boeing 737-800. The other new domestic route (not fully detailed in the source) is part of United’s largest summer schedule ever from SFO, with 28 extra flights to cities like Boston, Chicago, and San Diego. If you travel between the Bay Area and Cincinnati, this is a direct competitor to Breeze Airways, which currently has the only nonstop. More competition often means better pricing, so keep an eye on fares.
Meanwhile, Delta is also challenging Alaska in Seattle by reinstating service to Tokyo Narita. That route will be the fourth where the two carriers compete head-to-head. If you fly Seattle–Tokyo regularly, this could drive down prices or open up award availability. The sources don’t specify a start date or frequency, so check Delta’s schedule for details. As always, new routes often launch with promotional fares or bonus miles offers—set a fare alert if you’re interested.
A few caveats: The Austin–Paris and Seattle–Tokyo routes are confirmed by leaks and industry watchers, but official announcements may tweak dates or equipment. The United SFO–Cincinnati route is solid for October 25. None of these are guaranteed to be cheap forever—introductory deals usually vanish once the route is established. If you see a fare you like, book it rather than waiting.
Bottom line
Watch Delta's Austin–Paris and Seattle–Tokyo routes for new competition and potential deals, and United's SFO–Cincinnati for a direct option where Breeze currently has a monopoly. Book early if you see a good fare.
