Southwest Airlines Inaugural Flight Lands in St. Thomas, Starts Nonstop Service

Officials in the U.S. Virgin Islands welcomed Southwest Airlines’ inaugural nonstop flight from Orlando to St. Thomas Thursday at Cyril E. King International Airport, marking the start of the airline’s new direct service to the territory. Local leaders called the arrival a major boost for tourism and the territory’s economy.

The flight received a traditional water salute on the runway before taxiing to the gate, where local officials, airline representatives and media gathered for a press conference. Speakers framed the service as part of a broader effort to expand air connections and improve travel options for both tourists and Virgin Islanders.

“Many times we minimize what it takes to get these things done. It isn’t just one conversation. It’s about building a relationship with our partners at Southwest Airlines, and this is just the beginning,” said Jennifer Matarangas-King, commissioner of the U.S. Virgin Islands Tourism Department, noting the multiyear collaborative effort to bring the carrier to the territory.

Adam Decaire, senior vice president of network planning and network operations control at Southwest Airlines, said the company values “partnerships and long-term relationships” and is “looking forward to many years of serving the U.S. Virgin Islands.”