US-Mexico Connectivity Strengthened As Southwest Airlines Introduces New Direct Flights Between Puerto Vallarta And Las Vegas

Published on November 23, 2025

Southwest Airlines is expanding US-Mexico travel with the launch of a new nonstop flight route between Puerto Vallarta and Las Vegas, starting June 6, 2026. This new twice-weekly service will enhance connectivity between two major tourism destinations, providing an estimated 1,296 additional seats per month. The expansion not only increases travel options for vacationers but also supports the growing demand for seamless travel between the U.S. and Mexico. With Puerto Vallarta’s expanding international network and Southwest’s affordable fares, this new route is set to provide a convenient and attractive travel option for both leisure and business travelers.

In a significant move to bolster tourism and connectivity between the United States and Mexico, Southwest Airlines has announced the introduction of a new direct flight route between Puerto Vallarta and Las Vegas, set to launch on June 6, 2026. This new twice-weekly nonstop service will operate on Saturdays and Sundays, offering increased capacity and enhanced travel options for both leisure and business travelers. The expansion marks a major step forward in Southwest’s growing presence in Mexico and adds to the airline’s already robust network of U.S. destinations serviced from Puerto Vallarta.

New Routes to Enhance Tourism and Travel Convenience

The new route, operated on Southwest’s Boeing 737 aircraft, is expected to increase capacity by an estimated 1,296 additional seats per month, providing much-needed relief for travelers between the two popular destinations. Puerto Vallarta, a renowned resort city on Mexico’s Pacific coast, and Las Vegas, the entertainment capital of the world, are both key destinations for tourists from the U.S. and abroad. This new nonstop service offers a convenient, direct link between the two cities, making travel easier and more efficient for passengers.

Las Vegas is already a popular destination for Mexican tourists, with many visiting for the entertainment, shopping, and vibrant nightlife that the city has to offer. The addition of this new route will allow travelers to bypass the need for layovers or connecting flights, offering them more direct and affordable travel options. Southwest’s emphasis on affordability, combined with its well-known customer service, is expected to make this route an attractive option for many.

Puerto Vallarta, located in the state of Jalisco, is a major tourism hub known for its pristine beaches, cultural heritage, and growing luxury offerings. With this new service, travelers will have more opportunities to visit the Pacific coast of Mexico while enjoying seamless travel to and from Las Vegas, a city that has long attracted tourists for conventions, shows, and world-class entertainment.

Expanding Puerto Vallarta’s Reach

The launch of Southwest Airlines’ new Las Vegas route highlights Puerto Vallarta International Airport’s growing role as a significant regional air travel hub. The airport, which currently serves 54 national and international destinations, is undergoing substantial upgrades aimed at enhancing its capacity and passenger experience. These improvements, expected to be completed by 2027, will increase the airport’s ability to handle greater passenger volumes, further expanding its potential as a key gateway for tourists.

Puerto Vallarta has been expanding its international reach in recent years, with an increasing number of flights connecting the city with major U.S. and international destinations. Southwest Airlines’ new Las Vegas route complements the airline’s existing services from Puerto Vallarta, which include connections to Denver, Houston, Orange County, Sacramento, Austin, Phoenix, and, starting in March 2026, San Diego. These added routes demonstrate the city’s growing appeal to travelers seeking both leisure and business opportunities.

Puerto Vallarta and the 2026 FIFA World Cup

The new Puerto Vallarta-Las Vegas route will coincide with a global sporting event that is expected to draw thousands of visitors to Mexico: the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The tournament, which will take place in the U.S., Mexico, and Canada, will feature matches in Guadalajara, the capital of Jalisco, located just 295 kilometers (180 miles) from Puerto Vallarta. This proximity presents a unique opportunity for travelers to attend the World Cup matches in Guadalajara and then head to Puerto Vallarta for a beach vacation.

As many fans will look for convenient ways to enjoy both the World Cup and the beautiful coastal offerings of Puerto Vallarta, the new Southwest Airlines route offers a compelling option for combining the excitement of the tournament with the relaxation of a tropical getaway. This added connection between Las Vegas and Puerto Vallarta serves as a gateway for those looking to explore both the cultural and sports-related aspects of Mexico while also enjoying the laid-back atmosphere of the resort city.

Southwest’s Continued Growth in Mexico

The introduction of the Puerto Vallarta-Las Vegas route is part of Southwest’s broader expansion plans in Mexico for 2026. The airline also plans to introduce new nonstop flights between Las Vegas and Cancún on June 6, 2026, further cementing its presence in one of Mexico’s most popular tourist destinations. Additionally, Southwest is looking to add new service between Las Vegas and Los Cabos, expanding its reach even further across the country.

This expansion reflects the growing demand for travel between the U.S. and Mexico, particularly as more American tourists seek vacation options in Mexico’s beautiful beach resorts. Southwest Airlines, known for its affordable fares and reliable service, is positioning itself as a key player in the highly competitive Mexican travel market, which has seen increased interest from travelers both within North America and around the world.

The new Las Vegas route, along with the upcoming flights to Cancún and Los Cabos, will provide travelers with more direct, cost-effective options to experience the diverse beauty and culture of Mexico, whether they are seeking a relaxing beach vacation, a cultural exploration, or the thrill of a major sporting event like the World Cup.

The Future of Puerto Vallarta International Airport

As Puerto Vallarta International Airport undergoes its massive expansion, travelers can expect more flight options, improved amenities, and better overall service in the coming years. Scheduled to be completed by 2027, the airport’s upgrades are expected to help accommodate growing passenger numbers while improving the overall travel experience.

These improvements will not only enhance the airport’s capacity but will also make it easier for tourists to access Puerto Vallarta’s expanding list of international destinations. The ongoing investments in infrastructure signal the continued growth of Puerto Vallarta as an international tourism hotspot, further positioning the city as an ideal destination for both short getaways and longer stays.

Southwest Airlines’ new nonstop flight route between Puerto Vallarta and Las Vegas is a promising development for both tourism and travel between the U.S. and Mexico. With the addition of this new service, passengers will have easier access to two of the most sought-after destinations in North America, all while enjoying Southwest’s reputation for affordability and excellent customer service.

As Puerto Vallarta continues to grow as a major international hub, this new route offers a glimpse into the future of air travel to Mexico, particularly as the country attracts more global visitors in the coming years. Whether travelers are looking to relax on the beaches of Puerto Vallarta or experience the excitement of Las Vegas, the new Southwest Airlines service is sure to provide an exciting, convenient, and affordable travel option for all.

Southwest Airlines is expanding US-Mexico connectivity with new nonstop flights between Puerto Vallarta and Las Vegas, starting June 6, 2026. This expansion meets the growing demand for direct travel between two major tourism destinations, offering increased convenience for travelers.

This expansion also reflects the broader trend of increasing international flight connectivity to Mexico, a country that remains a top destination for American tourists. As the 2026 FIFA World Cup approaches, Puerto Vallarta’s convenient location makes it an attractive choice for sports fans seeking a combination of excitement and relaxation, adding even more appeal to the region’s travel offerings. With Southwest Airlines’ ongoing expansion, the future looks bright for Mexico-US air travel and tourism growth.