- THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS — The U.S. Virgin Islands is expanding its regional air connectivity with the launch of new nonstop service between St. Thomas and St. Maarten aboard Contour Airlines, creating a convenient new link between two neighboring Caribbean destinations.
The inaugural flight from Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) is scheduled to arrive at Cyril E. King Airport (STT) at 2:10 p.m. on Monday, October 5, 2026. The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism will mark the occasion with a water salute and welcome ceremony at the airport.
The new route will operate twice weekly, on Mondays and Fridays, utilizing Contour Airlines’ 30-seat regional aircraft.
“Expanding regional air connectivity is an important part of strengthening the U.S. Virgin Islands’ position as a premier Caribbean destination,” said U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism Commissioner Jennifer Matarangas-King. “This new service between St. Thomas and St. Maarten makes it easier for travelers to experience two vibrant Caribbean destinations while creating new opportunities for tourism, business and cultural exchange. We are pleased to welcome Contour Airlines to St. Thomas and look forward to building on this connection with our neighbors across the region.”
The new service gives travelers greater flexibility to experience both St. Thomas and St. Maarten as part of a multi-destination Caribbean itinerary, while providing an additional option for leisure and business travel between the two islands. The convenient schedule also allows travelers already exploring the region to more easily add the U.S. Virgin Islands to their plans, opening the door to extended stays and experiences across the Territory’s three islands.
For the U.S. Virgin Islands, the route represents another opportunity to strengthen ties with neighboring Caribbean destinations while supporting the continued growth of the visitor economy. Increased air access can help drive overnight visitation, create opportunities for local accommodations, restaurants, tour operators, retailers and other tourism businesses, and encourage greater movement of travelers throughout the region.
Visitors arriving through St. Thomas can experience the island’s vibrant waterfront and historic capital, Charlotte Amalie, while also connecting to the distinct culture, cuisine, history and natural beauty found across St. John and St. Croix.
Contour Airlines announced the St. Thomas–St. Maarten route in July as part of its continued expansion of regional air service throughout the Caribbean.
The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism will welcome the inaugural Contour Airlines flight on October 5 with a traditional water salute and celebration at Cyril E. King Airport.
For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands and its offerings, please visit https://www.visitusvi.com/.
