United Airlines sees increase in solo travelers

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United Airlines saw a 5 percent increase in solo travelers in 2024 compared to the previous year. The trend shows that more and more passengers are traveling unaccompanied. Generation Z in particular prefers solo travel. This development underlines the popularity of exotic travel destinations and technology-enabled services.

Growing number of solo trips

United Airlines reported that solo travelers took about 5 percent more air trips in 2024 than the previous year. This development is part of a long-standing trend in which more and more people are flying solo. According to the airline, the number of Google searches for solo travel has increased by 223 percent over the past decade. This increase indicates a growing interest in solo travel for both leisure and business purposes.

Intergenerational preferences

Research by United Airlines has shown that members of Generation Z travel particularly often alone. Around 70 percent of this group chose solo travel. Comparatively, 65 percent of Millennials and 57 percent of Baby Boomers traveled unaccompanied. The preferred travel times for United customers traveling alone are between January and May and between September and November, which may reflect favorable weather conditions.

Popularity of exotic travel destinations

According to United Airlines, passengers traveling alone from the USA often chose exotic destinations. Countries like China, South Korea, Brazil, India and Nigeria are very popular with them. This choice may be driven by increasing globalization and the desire for cultural experiences offered by off-the-beaten-path destinations.

Technology-based support from United Airlines

United Airlines has found that many solo travelers appreciate the airline‘s technology-based services available through the United app. These ranged from the AI-powered GenAI travel inspiration of the digital in-flight magazine Hemispheres® to practical services such as the Terminal Guide, seat selection and live activities for iPhone and Apple Watch. These technological tools enable a seamless travel experience, which is particularly beneficial for customers traveling alone.

United Airlines is a leading American airline serving a variety of global destinations. With innovative technical solutions and a strong customer focus, United continues its tradition of making travel enjoyable and efficient for passengers around the world. These ongoing efforts are reflected in their broad, international customer base.