SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- South Bend International Airport announced United Airlines will increase flying between SBN and O'Hare International Airport beginning Sept. 2.

United currently makes six daily roundtrip flights between the two airports.

SBN says that number will increase to seven in September and eight on Oct. 1.

Airport officials say these additions will allow for maximum flexibility for business and leisure travelers.

United will also begin an accelerated transition to the Bombardier CRJ-550 aircraft, which they say is the world’s only 50-seat regional aircraft offering first-class seating and other premium amenities.

United says this includes 10 United First seats with more legroom and premium services and 20 Economy Plus seats with more legroom per seat compared to standard economy.

“We are grateful for United’s continued commitment to get passengers where they want to go, when they need to get there,” said Mike Daigle, CEO and executive director of SBN.  “With football season quickly approaching, this increased capacity provides fans with even more options to easily get to games and will remain after the season concludes. This capacity increase is a result of more travelers choosing to fly to and from SBN.”

United says the new aircraft will also include space for every customer to bring a carry-on roller bag onboard, a self-serve refreshment center for United First customers featuring an assortment of snacks and beverages, and the ability to stay connected in flight with Starlink Wi-Fi by the end of the year.

Officials say half of the schedule will offer CRJ-550 flights in October with the goal of entirely transitioning to dual-cabin aircraft in 2026.