Southwest Airlines Announces Game-Changing Service to St. Thomas, Unlocking Unprecedented Tourism and Connectivity for USVI

Southwest Airlines will launch flights to Cyril E. King International Airport in early 2026, bringing a major airlift win to the USVI after years of strategic collaboration between the government, tourism department, and Virgin Islands Port Authority.

In a transformative moment for U.S. Virgin Islands tourism and economic development, Southwest Airlines has officially announced plans to launch service to Cyril E. King International Airport in early 2026. This major win follows years of coordinated effort by the Government of the Virgin Islands, the Department of Tourism, and the Virgin Islands Port Authority, and is expected to significantly boost visitor arrivals, accessibility, and national visibility for the territory.

The move brings one of America’s most recognized and customer-friendly airlines to the Virgin Islands for the first time, opening the door to new markets and strengthening the territory’s position as a top-tier Caribbean destination. Flights are scheduled to go on sale soon.

“Today marks an exciting milestone for the U.S. Virgin Islands and our growing tourism industry,” said Governor Albert Bryan Jr. “We are proud to welcome this new partnership with Southwest Airlines and look forward to greeting new travelers to our beautiful island home.”

St. Thomas will be the ninth island destination in the Atlantic Basin served by Southwest, joining the ranks of Aruba, The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Turks and Caicos. It’s also the first of three new destinations the carrier expects to unveil in 2026. The airline also operates international routes to Belize, Costa Rica, and Mexico, offering strong potential for regional and global connectivity.

“We are excited at the announcement of new airlift into St. Thomas with Southwest Airlines,” said V.I. Department of Tourism Commissioner Joseph Boschulte. “As a destination, this expands our accessibility and connectivity to travelers, allowing for seamless and expanded travel opportunities to experience the natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that define the U.S. Virgin Islands.”