United Airlines and Continental Airlines are set to launch several new international routes in the first half of 2012, as the company expands its route network as a result of the merger.

In May 2012, Continental will add new daily nonstop flights between Washington/Dulles and Manchester Airport, and in June 2012, subject to government approval, the airline will launch services between Washington/Dulles and Dublin.

“Since our merger last year, the new United’s unmatched global route network and U.S. hub structure have allowed us to offer our customers more flights to more places they want to go,” said Jim Compton, executive vice president and chief revenue officer. “By adding these new international routes, we continue to put the right aircraft in the right markets to serve our customers’ needs.”