U.S. Virgin Islands, Knoxville, and St. Maarten – Southwest Airlines Expands Its International Reach with Bold New Destinations, Marking a Major Post-2021 Growth Milestone

Published on August 27, 2025

Southwest Airlines Expands Reach with New Caribbean Destination: St. Maarten

Southwest Airlines is setting its sights on the Caribbean with the introduction of St. Maarten as its first new international destination since 2021. This marks an exciting milestone for the airline, which has been focused on expanding its network and exploring new markets. This move is part of a broader strategy to grow its services after overcoming recent financial hurdles and making key changes to its business model.

A Bold New Expansion Strategy

After navigating financial struggles in recent years, Southwest Airlines has taken significant steps to revitalize its operations. The airline made necessary adjustments to its business structure, such as implementing bag fees, offering assigned seating, and introducing premium offerings to its services. These changes were essential to ensure its financial sustainability. Throughout this period, Southwest focused primarily on optimizing its existing routes, rather than expanding into new markets.

However, as the airline stabilized, it began to turn its attention toward expanding its reach. This summer, Southwest Airlines unveiled three new destinations, including the U.S. Virgin Islands, Knoxville, Tennessee, and the newest addition, St. Maarten. The addition of St. Maarten comes as part of Southwest’s commitment to diversifying its offerings and increasing its international presence.

The St. Maarten Route Details

Southwest Airlines has confirmed that starting on April 7, 2026, it will begin operating daily flights from Orlando International Airport (MCO) to Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten. This move marks an exciting development for the airline’s Caribbean network, bringing one of the most sought-after islands within reach of Southwest’s passengers.

Additionally, on April 9, 2026, Southwest will begin bi-weekly service between Baltimore/Washington Thurgood Marshall International Airport (BWI) and SXM. This will allow travelers from the mid-Atlantic region to enjoy more direct access to the tropical paradise of St. Maarten.

The Caribbean island of St. Maarten, famous for its white sandy beaches and vibrant culture, is a major draw for tourists. With this new service, Southwest aims to cater to travelers seeking both relaxation and adventure, offering them a more affordable and convenient way to visit this popular destination.

Strengthening the Caribbean Network

The addition of St. Maarten further solidifies Southwest Airlines’ commitment to expanding its Caribbean network. Southwest already offers flights to several popular Caribbean destinations, including Aruba, the Bahamas, the Cayman Islands, Cuba, the Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and the Turks and Caicos Islands. With the new route to St. Maarten, the airline enhances its position in the region, offering travelers a broader selection of vacation spots in the Caribbean.

This new route also marks a significant moment for Southwest Airlines as it continues to build on its international reach. Beyond the Caribbean, Southwest Airlines has expanded its offerings to include destinations in Mexico, Costa Rica, and Belize, giving passengers even more options for international travel.

Growing Domestic Reach with New Routes

While the international expansion is a key highlight, Southwest Airlines is also strengthening its domestic network. The airline has already announced that it will begin service to St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands in February 2026, with flights departing from BWI and MCO. Additionally, starting in March 2026, Southwest will introduce new routes from McGhee Tyson Airport (TSY) in Knoxville, Tennessee, including daily flights to Nashville, BWI, Dallas Love Field, and Orlando International Airport.

Furthermore, Southwest will offer seasonal, bi-weekly service from TSY to Denver, beginning on April 9, 2026. These new domestic routes reflect Southwest’s ongoing efforts to expand and improve its U.S. network, providing passengers with more options for both domestic and international travel.

Looking Ahead

Southwest Airlines’ new international and domestic routes are just the beginning of its growth strategy. With the expansion into St. Maarten, the airline not only provides new options for Caribbean travel but also enhances its competitive edge in the airline industry. As the airline continues to recover and evolve, it’s clear that Southwest is committed to providing customers with more destinations, greater flexibility, and exceptional service.

Travelers can look forward to the launch of these new routes in 2026, with the airline continuing to offer the affordable, friendly service it’s known for while expanding its global footprint. Whether it’s a quick getaway to St. Maarten, a tropical retreat in the Bahamas, or a cultural escape to Mexico, Southwest Airlines is making it easier than ever to explore new horizons.