ST. JOHN’S, Antigua (March 4, 2026) – Antigua and Barbuda tourism and aviation officials are celebrating the launch of Sunrise Airways’ new non-stop service connecting Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (SDQ), with Antigua (ANU), a move that further strengthens intra-Caribbean air connectivity.

The inaugural flight was welcomed on March 3 at V.C. Bird International Airport with a ribbon-cutting ceremony attended by Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, The Honourable Charles Fernandez; Eastern Caribbean Representative for Sunrise Airways Colin Piper; and Acting CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority Philmore Andrew, along with other airline officials.

Minister Fernandez described the new route as a meaningful advancement in regional integration. He underscored the Government of Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to expanding airlift and supporting tourism growth, highlighting the US$50 million infrastructural upgrades recently completed at V.C. Bird International Airport.

“We recognize the strategic importance of Antigua and Barbuda as a hub in the Caribbean, and we are especially pleased that Sunrise Airways has added another route to Antigua,” said Fernandez. “Our central location makes us an ideal gateway for travel, business and tourism across the region. Additionally, the international airport in Barbuda offers visitors seamless access to experience both islands.”

The minister also emphasized the importance of the service for the Dominican diaspora, noting that approximately 14,000 residents of Dominican origin live in Antigua and Barbuda.

Colin Piper, Sunrise Airways’ Eastern Caribbean Representative, highlighted Antigua and Barbuda’s strategic role within the airline’s expanding network. Since entering the Eastern Caribbean market in May 2024, Sunrise Airways has focused on building a sustainable route structure designed to enhance regional connectivity.

“For Sunrise Airways, Antigua and Barbuda is not simply another destination. It is a strategic pillar within our Eastern Caribbean network,” Piper stated. “This new service strengthens our Santo Domingo hub and creates more seamless links between the Dominican Republic and Antigua, while laying the foundation for expanded connections across the Americas.”

Piper added that enhanced airlift stimulates commerce, supports tourism, facilitates business travel, and strengthens regional supply chains.

Also extending congratulations on behalf of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority was Acting CEO Philmore Andrew, who noted that Sunrise Airways’ investment reflects confidence in the destination and in V.C. Bird International Airport’s continued growth as a regional hub.

The twice-weekly service operates on Tuesdays and Saturdays using Embraer ERJ140 regional jet aircraft with seating for up to 30 passengers in a single-class configuration. Tuesday flights depart Santo Domingo at 1:00 p.m., arriving in Antigua at 2:35 p.m., with the return flight leaving Antigua at 3:20 p.m. On Saturdays, flights depart Santo Domingo at 9:00 a.m., arriving at 10:35 a.m., with the return service departing Antigua at 11:20 a.m.

To mark the launch, Sunrise Airways has introduced a special promotional fare of US$199 one-way. Tickets can be booked through the airline’s mobile app, website, or via travel agents across the region.

The new route reflects ongoing regional efforts to enhance collaboration among Caribbean destinations and improve air connectivity within the region.