Skift Take

The decision to cancel a major transatlantic route launch with just a few weeks' notice will not have been taken lightly by the airline.

United Airlines has scrapped plans for a new transatlantic route this summer, just weeks ahead of its maiden flight. The highly unusual decision to cancel the service comes amid an audit of the company by U.S. regulators.

Last month, the Federal Aviation Administration said it was increasing its oversight of United following a string of safety incidents.

As well as greater scrutiny of its processes and procedures, the audit also restricts certain operational and certification activities. This can make it harder for the airline to start flying to new destinations. 

Which United Routes Are Affected?

United’s new summer service from its Newark hub to Faro in southern Portugal is the highest-profile route