Sunrise Airways launches direct flights to Santo Domingo

TORTOLA (CMC)

The British Virgin Islands last week welcomed the inaugural Sunrise Airways service with officials saying the new direct route between Santo Domingo and Tortola would improve regional travel, business links and family connections with the Dominican Republic.

The airline will operate twice-weekly non-stop flights on Thursdays and Sundays, adding new airlift capacity into the territory.

Speaking at Terrance B Lettsome International Airport, Sunrise Airways Marketing Manager Rafael Rincón Montisano said the route formed part of the carrier’s wider push to expand Caribbean connectivity.

“Reliable airlift is fundamental to economic activity, whether facilitating travel for commerce, enabling tourism expansion, or strengthening regional mobility,” Montisano said. He added that the service would support travellers, investors, government officials and visitors.

Montisano said the route would be operated with a 30-seat Embraer 140 regional jet. He also announced an introductory one-way fare of $199 between Santo Domingo and Tortola.

Premier Dr Natalio Wheatley described the launch as a significant development for the territory, noting the longstanding ties between the Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic.

“The Virgin Islands and the Dominican Republic share a long and meaningful relationship,” Wheatley said. “Many families in our territory, including mine, have strong ties to the DR.”

He said the new service would make it easier for residents to visit relatives, conduct business and connect to other destinations through Santo Domingo.

“More seats means more convenience, more flexibility, more travellers, and hopefully lower fares,” Wheatley added.

The premier also encouraged Sunrise Airways to explore additional regional routes, saying demand existed for stronger Caribbean connections as the Virgin Islands expands engagement with CARICOM.