How interCaribbean Airways' New San Juan-St. Kitts Route Boosts Regional Travel
Key Points
- 1interCaribbean Airways launched a twice-weekly non-stop service between San Juan (SJU) and St. Kitts (SKB).
- 2The new route replaces regional connectivity lost following the collapse of Silver Airways in June 2025.
- 3The 70-minute flight positions St. Kitts to capture long-haul traffic connecting through the major SJU hub.
- 4The service supports St. Kitts’ strategy to diversify tourism arrivals and boost local business revenue.
Basseterre, St. Kitts — interCaribbean Airways marked a regional accessibility milestone today. The airline launched its inaugural flight San Juan Puerto Rico to St. Kitts (SKB). The arrival was celebrated at the Kayan Jet private terminal. Government officials and airline executives attended the welcome ceremony. This launch establishes a crucial new regional air bridge.
Strategic Connectivity and Hub Status
The twice-weekly service is a key part of St. Kitts’ strategy. It aims to diversify St. Kitts tourism arrivals. The non-stop link captures the Puerto Rican market share. It also simplifies travel for international visitors. These travelers connect through San Juan from the United States and Europe. Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) is a major Caribbean hub. It processed over 13.2 million passengers in 2024. The new route helps rebuild Eastern Caribbean connectivity. This connectivity was impacted by the collapse of Silver Airways in June 2025.
Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Marsha T. Henderson, noted the route's importance. "This service provides a direct link for Puerto Rican travelers," she stated. It uses San Juan as a strategic hub San Juan. This allows St. Kitts to seamlessly capture long-haul traffic. Minister Henderson stressed that this "airlift oxygen" is vital. It supports local businesses and entrepreneurs.
Airline Commitment and Economic Impact
Kelly Fontenelle, CEO of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, emphasized the partnership. She called the launch a "meaningful moment" for the destination. The route strengthens regional connectivity thoughtfully and practically. The goal is to provide efficient access for all travelers. This allows more time to enjoy St. Kitts’ distinctive culture.
interCaribbean Airways Chairman Lyndon Gardnier highlighted the broader mission. "Today, we add another bridge across the Caribbean Sea," he said. The non-stop service connects two destinations in just over an hour. This opens new opportunities for families and businesses. The airline previously dedicated the ‘Spirit of St. Kitts and Nevis’ aircraft in March.
- Opportunity: The route leverages SJU's status as the busiest airport in the insular Caribbean.
- Benefit: It provides a quicker, one-stop option for North American passengers. This is a significant improvement in flight operation news for the region. [flying.flights]
- Challenge: Sustaining passenger load factors outside of peak holiday seasons will be key.
Flight Schedule and Details
The interCaribbean Airways San Juan St. Kitts route operates twice weekly. The flight time is approximately 70 minutes.
- Flight JY643 (SJU to SKB): Departs San Juan on Friday and Monday at 17:20. It arrives in St. Kitts at 18:30.
- Flight JY644 (SKB to SJU): Departs St. Kitts on Thursday and Sunday at 08:30. It arrives in San Juan at 09:40.
This schedule offers highly convenient connections to the US market. It also enhances regional travel within the Eastern Caribbean. The aircraft used is a regional jet or turboprop aircraft, part of the carrier’s diverse fleet.
Conclusion
The launch of this twice-weekly service is a vital development. It secures a key international connection for St. Kitts. The route supports the island’s economic growth strategy. It reinforces San Juan’s role as a major Caribbean aviation gateway. This partnership signals strong confidence in the region's tourism outlook.
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