United Airlines has retired its first Boeing 777-200 after 30 years of service. This marks the end of the aircraft’s tenure, which played a significant role in the global success of Boeing’s widebody twin-engine program.
The aircraft, registered N777UA, completed its final passenger flight on November 28, 2025, between Washington Dulles and San Francisco. The following morning, it flew to Southern California Logistics Airport in Victorville, where it joined United’s growing fleet in a storage area in the Mojave Desert.
The End of a Legend
Delivered to United Airlines in May 1995, N777UA was the first Boeing 777 ever delivered to an airline and operated the first-ever commercial Boeing 777 flight between London Heathrow and Washington Dulles a month later. However, the aircraft’s retirement is due to supply issues with the Pratt & Whitney PW4000 engines used in United’s older 777 fleet. Pratt & Whitney reduced parts production for these engines, making it increasingly difficult to maintain the aging 777-200s.
The End of an Era
United Airlines was the global launch customer for the Boeing 777, and N777UA played a central role in shaping the airline’s early international network. Initially configured with a 292-seat, three-class layout, the aircraft underwent several cabin updates and exterior changes during its service life. It was also repainted several times throughout its life, in line with United’s brand.
In its final week of service, N777UA operated flights on major domestic routes such as Los Angeles, Chicago O’Hare, Denver, Washington Dulles, and San Francisco, and completed its last international flight to Cancun.
Fleet Modernization and Future Plans
While United Airlines has not yet confirmed whether the aircraft has been permanently retired, aviation sources indicate that the move to storage may be temporary and related to the engine support issues. The airline had previously retired some of its older 777-200s in 2025, and no additional aircraft retirements are expected. However, as engine supply issues are resolved, there is a possibility these aircraft may return to service.
United’s current 777-200/300 fleet consists of 96 aircraft, and the company has stated these planes will not be retired in the short term. Stored aircraft may return to service as parts are made available. This development reflects United’s continued transition to a more modern fleet, supporting its ongoing goals to manage its global network.
