Southwest Airlines Boosts Caribbean Connectivity with New Nonstop Service to St. Thomas, U.S.
Virgin Islands, as Part of Its Post-Pandemic Expansion StrategySouthwest Airlines is preparing to begin its first broad network expansion in five years, announcing plans to launch yet another route to the U.S. Virgin Islands starting in early 2026.
Neither have they disclosed departure cities for flights to Cyril E. King International Airport (STT) on St. Thomas, but the news has led to excitement on both the part of locals and those who visit the island.
New Caribbean DestinationWith this new addition, St. Thomas will become Southwest’s ninth destination in the Caribbean, joining a well-established list that includes Aruba (AUA), the Bahamas (NAS), the Cayman Islands (CGM), Cuba (HAV), the Dominican Republic (PUJ), Jamaica (MBJ), Puerto Rico (SJU), and Turks and Caicos (PLS). Southwest typically operates many of these Caribbean flights from its major hubs in Baltimore (BWI) and Florida, making these locations likely candidates for the new Virgin Islands route.
The announcement has been met with enthusiasm by local residents in the Virgin Islands, especially in St. Thomas, which already enjoys service from airlines like American, Delta, United, and Spirit. Southwest’s new service promises to enhance connectivity, offering travelers more ways to access the island’s renowned beauty and rich cultural heritage.
Post-Pandemic Strategy ShiftThis new route represents a significant shift .
