“Nonstop Flight from Albuquerque to Washington Dulles Takes Off: Boosting East Coast Connectivity”

Albuquerque International Sunport (ABQ) has launched its inaugural nonstop flight to Washington Dulles International Airport (IAD), marking a significant expansion in connectivity between New Mexico and the East Coast. The successful launch was celebrated by officials from the City of Albuquerque and ABQ. United Airlines flight 1706 marked the official start of the new service, with a full outbound flight departing later in the day, demonstrating strong demand from both business and leisure travelers.

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The new nonstop route is expected to strengthen Albuquerque’s ties with the nation’s capital and enhance its position as a gateway to the Southwest, according to Richard McCurley, Aviation Director. The launch was celebrated with Sunport staff and airline representatives at the gate, and Councilor Nichole Rogers distributed Visit ABQ goodie bags to arriving passengers from Dulles/D.C.

The Albuquerque International Sunport is New Mexico’s largest commercial airport, serving over 5.4 million passengers annually. Operated by the City of Albuquerque’s Aviation Department, the Sunport is served by eight major carriers, three cargo carriers, and one commuter airline. With the new nonstop service, the Sunport now offers nonstop service between ABQ and 32 destinations, providing worldwide connectivity. United Airlines’ daily route between ABQ-IAD began on May 22, 2025, with departure and arrival times available on the airline’s website.