United Airlines is a major U.S. carrier and member of the Star Alliance. While United does not currently operate its own nonstop flights from the U.S. mainland directly into Nairobi, Kenya’s Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO), it does offer flights to Nairobi via partner carriers/codeshare agreements and via European or African hubs. For example:
United lists Nairobi (NBO) in its “Flights to Nairobi” search page, showing departures from U.S. cities such as Los Angeles (LAX), Chicago (ORD), Houston (IAH), Atlanta (ATL), Washington D.C. (IAD) and others. United Airlines
A specific example: UA8729 is shown as Frankfurt (FRA) → Nairobi (NBO) under United’s code, but in fact it’s operated by Lufthansa (LH 590) as a codeshare. FlightMapper+1
So if you’re considering flying to Nairobi with United, expect either:
Booking through United with one or more stops (either via Europe/Africa hubs); or
Booking a Star Alliance ticket that includes United-operated segments + partner segments to reach Nairobi.
Routes & How to Reach Nairobi via United
Here are some of the ways you can travel to Nairobi via United or its partners:
Route examples
U.S. city → European hub → Nairobi: For example, you depart a U.S. hub on United (or partner), connect in Europe (e.g., Frankfurt, Brussels) and then continue to Nairobi on a partner flight. Example: UA8729 from Frankfurt to Nairobi, codeshare operated by Lufthansa. FlightMapper+1
U.S. city → U.S. hub → Africa hub → Nairobi: Some itineraries may involve two stops (one in the U.S. or Europe, then one in Africa).
Searching flights on United’s website shows multiple U.S. origin cities to Nairobi via United bookings: e.g., Los Angeles → Nairobi, Chicago → Nairobi, Houston → Nairobi. United Airlines
What to check
Check whether the segment from your U.S. departure to/from Europe/Africa is operated by United or a partner.
Verify layover times and airport transfer logistics.
Check baggage & fare rules especially when part of the itinerary is on partner airlines.
Use United’s site to search “Flights to Nairobi” and filter by origin, date, fare class. United Airlines+1
Pricing & Fare Expectations
From the information available:
On United’s site the “Flights to Nairobi” page shows economy fares starting from roughly US$ 909 (round-trip) from certain U.S. cities to Nairobi. United Airlines
Business class fares via specialized fare-deal sites show discounts, though full business class via United/partners to Nairobi may run higher. Example: a business-class fare listing for Nairobi around US$3,060 in one case. Skylux Travel
Factors affecting price: origin city, number of stops, date of travel, fare class, how far ahead you book.
Booking via United: Steps & Tips
Here’s how to efficiently book a United-related itinerary to Nairobi:
Use United’s website: Search for origin (e.g., ORD, IAD, LAX), destination “Nairobi (NBO)”. United’s site will show available itineraries including partner-operated segments.
Check for partner carriers: Even if you see “UA” code on the booking, the actual flight segment may be operated by a partner airline (codeshare).
Look at layovers: Because there are no direct U.S.-to-Nairobi flights by United, you’ll have at least one layover (often in Europe or Africa). Ensure the connection is comfortable.
Compare fare classes: Basic Economy vs Standard Economy vs Business. Basic may restrict changes, baggage, seat selection.
Check alliance/partner seats: Since United is part of Star Alliance, you may also find availability via alliances (e.g., United + Lufthansa + Brussels + other carriers) which can offer better value.
Check baggage & visa/transit requirements: Especially if your layover is in Europe or Africa, check visa/transit rules for your nationality.
Book early & flexible: Especially for safari travel or peak travel seasons to Kenya, earlier booking helps.
Mileage/award travel: If you’re using United MileagePlus miles, check partner availability to Kenya via United/Star Alliance.
Pros & Cons of Flying United (or United-involved) to Nairobi
Pros
United’s global network with many U.S. departure cities gives flexibility.
Star Alliance membership gives you access to many partner carriers to Africa (e.g., Lufthansa, Brussels Airlines) and potential lounge access, mileage earning.
Frequent flyer members can use MilesPlus program on United and partner flights.
Cons
No nonstop U.S.-to-Nairobi flight by United, so you’ll always have at least one stop.
Some itineraries may have longer layovers or less comfortable connection airports versus specialized African carrier routes.
Partner codeshares may limit flexibility or have fare-class quirks relative to a direct dedicated carrier to Africa.
When & How to Get the Best Value
Book several months ahead: For example, mid-range economy fares may appear cheaper when booked well in advance.
Travel during off-peak seasons: Kenya’s lower tourist season may offer better fares.
Be flexible with departure city: If you can depart from a larger hub (e.g., Chicago, Washington D.C., Newark) you might find more competitive fares.
Consider mixed cabin or upgrade segments: For example, part of your trip in economy, then upgrade for the long-haul.
Check award availability via United MileagePlus: If you have miles, you can look for partner–operated segments to NBO.
Additional Consideration: Arrival & After Nairobi
You’ll arrive at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (NBO) in Nairobi. Plan accordingly for immigration, baggage, and onward travel.
Many travelers to Kenya use Nairobi as a gateway to safari destinations (e.g., Maasai Mara, Amboseli) or coastal locations. So you might combine your United-involved flight with a local transfer or domestic flight.
Ensure you have your onward travel or accommodation in Kenya arranged in advance.
Final Thoughts
If you’re considering flights to Nairobi and prefer booking through United Airlines (or United-involved itineraries via Star Alliance partners), you absolutely can reach Nairobi with United’s network and partners. While there’s no direct nonstop U.S.-to-NBO flight by United, the routing options are strong, and fares start reasonably (for economy) from around US$900+ per round-trip when booking early. By paying attention to layovers, connection cities, partner carriers, and fare classes you can make the journey smooth.
