Avelo Airlines Connects Wilmington, North Carolina to the Caribbean with Exciting New Flights to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic

Published on December 25, 2025

Wilmington, North Carolina, has just crossed a major milestone in its aviation history, marking the beginning of international flights with Avelo Airlines’ new service to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This significant achievement opens up a whole new world of travel options for Wilmington’s residents and travelers from surrounding areas. The new route not only connects Wilmington to the Caribbean but also reflects the city’s growing importance as a travel hub in the region.

A Transformative Moment for Wilmington’s Travel Scene

Wilmington, North Carolina, known for its beautiful coastal scenery and vibrant culture, has long been a favorite destination for vacationers. Now, with the commencement of Avelo Airlines’ nonstop service to Punta Cana, the city is further solidifying its position as an attractive entry point for international travel. This marks Wilmington International Airport’s first-ever international route, a major development that is sure to change the face of local tourism and travel.

Avelo Airlines, known for its affordable and convenient flight options, has made a strong impression on Wilmington’s travel landscape. By adding Punta Cana to its growing list of destinations, the airline is providing Wilmington residents and visitors with a direct, cost-effective way to explore one of the Caribbean’s most popular vacation spots. The route is set to operate twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays, utilizing Avelo’s Next-Generation Boeing 737 aircraft, providing passengers with a reliable and comfortable flying experience.

Key Highlights of Avelo Airlines’ New Service to Punta Cana:

• First International Route: This is the inaugural international service from Wilmington International Airport, marking a significant milestone for the city.
• Direct Flights: Avelo Airlines will operate direct, nonstop flights between Wilmington and Punta Cana twice a week, allowing for convenient travel with no layovers.
• Affordable and Convenient: Known for providing affordable fares and a hassle-free travel experience, Avelo offers competitive pricing for this highly anticipated route.
• Celebration of New Beginnings: Avelo’s launch event at Wilmington International Airport featured a festive Dominican Republic flag celebration and sweet treats for passengers, marking the beginning of a new era for the airport.

The Growing Appeal of Wilmington as a Travel Hub

For years, Wilmington has been a popular destination for those looking to explore North Carolina’s beautiful beaches, historic sites, and charming downtown. With the addition of international flights, the city is now set to attract even more tourists and become a key player in the regional travel market. The expansion of Wilmington’s air service is also a testament to the city’s development and growing recognition as a vital gateway to the East Coast.

• Expanding Flight Options: Avelo Airlines has significantly expanded Wilmington International Airport’s route offerings, with service now available to 15 nonstop destinations, including major cities such as Boston, New York, Washington D.C., and Fort Lauderdale.
• Attracting Tourists to Wilmington: With more flight options and affordable travel, Wilmington is set to become an even more attractive destination for international visitors. As a popular destination for both leisure and business travelers, this new route promises to bring even more attention to Wilmington’s unique offerings.
• Convenient Access to the Beaches: Wilmington is a perfect launch point for those heading to the island beaches, and now, travelers can easily reach the Caribbean directly from Wilmington, bypassing the long airport lines and congestion typical of larger cities.

Avelo Airlines’ Impact on Wilmington and Its Economy

Since its first arrival in Wilmington in June 2022, Avelo Airlines has made a significant impact on the region. The airline has flown over 580,000 passengers and completed nearly 5,000 flights from Wilmington International Airport. This expansion has not only made travel more convenient but has also contributed to the local economy by creating jobs in aviation, including positions for pilots, flight attendants, and customer support staff.

Avelo’s Key Contributions to Wilmington’s Economy:

• Job Creation: With the growth of Avelo’s presence at Wilmington International Airport, the airline has created numerous job opportunities in the aviation industry.
• Tourism Growth: The new route to Punta Cana is expected to bolster Wilmington’s tourism sector, encouraging more visitors to explore the city and its surroundings.
• Local Investment: Avelo’s long-term investment in Wilmington, including a dedicated Crewmember base and two Boeing 737s based at the airport, highlights the airline’s commitment to the region.

Connecting Wilmington to the World

Avelo Airlines has earned a reputation for providing reliable and affordable air service, and its latest international expansion is no exception. By offering direct flights to Punta Cana, the airline is not only helping Wilmington residents easily access a popular Caribbean destination but also offering travelers from the Dominican Republic a chance to experience the best of Coastal North Carolina. This new service opens up exciting opportunities for both business and leisure travelers, and the ease of direct flights will undoubtedly enhance Wilmington’s global connectivity.

• International Connections: This new service further strengthens Wilmington’s connection to the rest of the world, facilitating easier travel for locals and international visitors alike.
• Expanding Wilmington’s Global Reach: The international route to Punta Cana positions Wilmington as a more strategic gateway for travelers looking to explore the East Coast and beyond.

Avelo Airlines: A Growing Airline with a Strong Track Record

Since its launch in April 2021, Avelo Airlines has made a name for itself by offering convenient, affordable flights to underserved destinations. The airline has quickly expanded its operations, serving nearly 50 destinations across the U.S., Puerto Rico, and the Caribbean. Avelo’s commitment to reliability has earned it recognition as one of the most punctual and dependable airlines in the industry, a factor that plays a critical role in attracting customers looking for a hassle-free travel experience.

Avelo Airlines’ Key Achievements:

• Industry-Leading Reliability: Avelo Airlines was ranked #1 in on-time performance and achieved the lowest flight cancellation rate in the U.S. airline industry in 2024.
• Affordable Membership: The airline’s newly launched Avelo PLUS program offers members exclusive benefits such as discounted fares and priority boarding, enhancing the travel experience for frequent flyers.
• Fleet Expansion: Avelo’s fleet continues to grow, with plans to add up to 100 new aircraft by 2027, positioning the airline for continued expansion and more travel options in the future.

Looking Ahead: A New Era for Wilmington’s Travel Scene

As Wilmington embraces its new status as an international travel hub, the future looks bright for both the city and Avelo Airlines. The new Punta Cana route is just the beginning of what is expected to be a long and prosperous relationship between the airline and the Wilmington community. The city’s investment in travel infrastructure, combined with Avelo’s affordable and reliable service, is sure to attract more visitors and further enhance Wilmington’s appeal as a top destination on the East Coast.

The Future of Wilmington’s Air Travel:

• Continued Expansion: With more international routes on the horizon, Wilmington is poised to become an even more important player in the global travel scene.
• Increased Tourism: The Punta Cana route is expected to bring more international visitors to Wilmington, boosting the local economy and tourism sector.
• Stronger Global Presence: As Avelo Airlines continues to expand, Wilmington will enjoy increased connectivity with other popular travel destinations, making it a central hub for East Coast travel.