United Airlines has this week announced plans to launch daily, non-stop flights between its Denver hub and its hub at Tokyo Narita International Airport, with effect from March 31, 2013. The flight, which remains subject to government approval, will be operated by its new Boeing 787 Dreamliners.

"I want to recognise the efforts of Mayor Hancock, Kim Day, Manager of Aviation, and her team at Denver International Airport, and the business and civic leaders in Denver who have worked together to bring this great new international destination to our customers in Denver," said Jeff Smisek, President and Chief Executive Officer, United Airlines. "Our customers will enjoy the direct, nonstop service on our new Boeing Dreamliner aircraft, which will provide a spectacular flying experience."

"Opening this next frontier of opportunity with a nonstop flight to Tokyo will create new jobs, generate more than $130 million in annual economic benefit to Colorado, and elevate Denver as a world-class city on the global stage," said Mayor Michael Hancock. "Together with many of our business and civic partners, we have worked for nearly a decade to secure this flight."

United currently offers more flights to more destinations worldwide from Denver than any other airline, with almost 400 peak day departures to 125 destinations throughout the year; United actually flies to nearly 50 more cities than the next largest carrier at Denver International Airport. This flight will be the city's first non-stop service to Asia. Additionally, together with its joint venture partner All Nippon Airways (ANA), United will offer connections at Narita to or from more than 20 further destinations in Asia.

The US carrier says it will configure its Boeing 787 Dreamliner aircraft with 219 seats 36 in BusinessFirst and 183 in United Economy, including 63 Economy Plus seats with extra legroom. United BusinessFirst features flat-bed seats, along with a wide range of premium-cabin services and amenities.