Sunrise Airways has launched a new non-stop service connecting Santo Domingo in the Dominican Republic with V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua and Barbuda.
The twice-weekly service operates on Tuesdays and Saturdays. On Tuesdays, flights depart Santo Domingo at 1:00 pm and arrive in Antigua at 2:35 pm, with the return service leaving Antigua at 3:20 pm.
On Saturdays, flights depart Santo Domingo at 9:00 am and arrive at 10:35 am, with the return leg departing Antigua at 11:20 am.
The route is operated using Embraer ERJ140 regional jet aircraft, offering one class of service with seating for up to 30 passengers.
To mark the launch, Sunrise Airways has introduced a special promotional fare of US$199 one-way between Santo Domingo and Antigua and Barbuda. Tickets can be booked via the airline’s newly launched mobile app, its website, or through travel agents across the region.
The inaugural flight took place on March 3. Passengers and crew were welcomed on arrival by a delegation that included Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment Charles Fernandez, Acting Chief Executive Officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority Philmore Andrew, and Eastern Caribbean Representative for Sunrise Airways Colin Piper.
Fernandez welcomed the expanded connectivity, noting that the new non-stop service represents a meaningful advancement in strengthening regional integration.
He highlighted the US$50 million infrastructural upgrades at V.C. Bird International Airport, underscoring the Government of Antigua and Barbuda’s commitment to increased airlift and tourism growth.
“We recognise the strategic importance of Antigua and Barbuda as a hub in the Caribbean, and so we are especially delighted that Sunrise Airways has added another route to Antigua. Our central location within the region makes Antigua and Barbuda an ideal gateway for travel, business and tourism across the Caribbean. We now also have an international airport in Barbuda, allowing arriving passengers the opportunity to easily experience Barbuda as well.”
Thanking the airline for its confidence in launching the service, Fernandez added, “It is important to note that we have approximately 14,000 residents originating from the Dominican Republic, and this service will be very meaningful to the Dominican diaspora living in Antigua and Barbuda.”
Piper described Antigua and Barbuda as central to the airline’s regional strategy.
“For Sunrise Airways, Antigua and Barbuda is not simply another destination. It is a strategic pillar within our Eastern Caribbean network. Since expanding into the Eastern Caribbean in May 2024, we have been deliberate in building a route structure that strengthens regional connectivity in practical and sustainable ways. Antigua’s geographic position, strong aviation infrastructure, and globally recognized tourism product make it a natural partner in this vision.”
“This new service enhances the evolution of our Santo Domingo hub, creating more seamless links between Antigua and the Dominican Republic, while laying the groundwork for expanded connections into gateways across the Americas. Improved airlift does more than move passengers, it stimulates commerce, facilitates business travel, supports tourism growth, and strengthens regional supply chains,” Piper added.
Also extending congratulations on behalf of the Board, executive management and staff of the Airport Authority was Andrew.
“The decision for Sunrise to invest in this route demonstrates confidence in our country and the continued growth of V.C. Bird International as a regional hub. We value the partnership and look forward to the benefits that will arise from this increased connectivity,” he said.
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