Contour Airlines will begin offering twice-weekly nonstop flights between St. Thomas and St. Maarten this fall, providing a new regional travel option for residents and visitors, according to a press release issued by the U.S. Virgin Islands Tourism Department.
The new route will launch Oct. 5 with nonstop service between Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas and Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten. Flights will operate on Mondays and Fridays aboard Contour Airlines’ 30-seat regional jet aircraft, according to the press release.
Tourism officials said the additional air service is expected to improve regional connectivity, encourage multi-island travel and support tourism and business opportunities throughout the Caribbean.
“Expanding air service remains one of the Department’s highest priorities, and we are excited to welcome Contour Airlines’ new nonstop service between St. Thomas and St. Maarten,” Tourism Commissioner Jennifer Matarangas-King said. “This new route strengthens connectivity within the Caribbean while creating new opportunities for visitors to experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of the U.S. Virgin Islands. It also reinforces the longstanding relationships between our neighboring islands while supporting continued growth of our visitor economy.”
Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. said the new route reflects the administration’s efforts to improve transportation access and support economic development.
“Reliable and convenient air access is essential to the continued success of the U.S. Virgin Islands,” Bryan said. “This new nonstop service strengthens our ties with our Caribbean neighbors, creates new opportunities for commerce and tourism, and makes it easier for visitors to experience everything our islands have to offer. We appreciate Contour Airlines’ continued investment in our Territory and look forward to the positive impact this new route will have on our economy and our people.”
Princess Juliana International Airport CEO Michael Cleaver also welcomed the new service, the press release stated.
“We are pleased to welcome Contour Airlines’ continued investment in Sint Maarten through the launch of nonstop service to St. Thomas,” Cleaver said. “Every new route strengthens the connectivity that is so vital to island communities. It expands opportunities for tourism and commerce, enhances mobility for residents, and provides travelers with greater choice as they explore the Caribbean.”
According to Tourism, the flight schedule will be:
Mondays
- St. Thomas to St. Maarten: 11:35 a.m. to 12:30 p.m.
- St. Maarten to St. Thomas: 1:15 p.m. to 2:10 p.m.
Fridays
- St. Thomas to St. Maarten: 12:35 p.m. to 1:35 p.m.
- St. Maarten to St. Thomas: 2:30 p.m. to 3:25 p.m.
The department said passengers will travel aboard Contour Airlines’ 30-seat regional jets, which offer complimentary snacks and inflight service.
According to the release, the new route is part of the department’s ongoing effort to expand air service, strengthen regional partnerships and improve access to the U.S. Virgin Islands.
