British Airways is set to expand its flight schedule to Saint Lucia later this year to meet growing winter travel demand from the United Kingdom and Europe.

The Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) announced that from October 25, 2026, the airline will operate a daily direct service between London Gatwick and Hewanorra International Airport, adding 51,000 seats for the 2026/2027 winter season.

According to the SLTA, the new schedule will feature later departure times, making it easier for travellers from across Europe, including France and Germany, to connect to flights to the island. The authority is also ramping up promotional efforts in those markets.

During the summer months, the airline will revert to its seasonal schedule, which includes shared flights with other Caribbean destinations.

Minister of Tourism Ernest Hilaire welcomed the development, noting that increased airlift is key to driving visitor arrivals.

“More direct flights mean more visitors can experience the warmth of our island during the winter season. The confidence airlines continue to show in Saint Lucia, supported by data-driven negotiations, allows us to keep expanding our tourism offerings, enhancing accommodation and elevating the visitor experience,” he said.

“We thank British Airways for this partnership and look forward to welcoming even more UK travellers in the months ahead.”

The SLTA said it continues to work strategically within the UK market, acknowledging ongoing economic challenges that have impacted travel demand, while positioning the additional service as a key driver to sustain interest in the destination.

The authority noted British Airways has maintained a long-standing relationship with Saint Lucia, operating flights to the island for more than 55 years since its first service in 1971. The airline offers three classes of service on the route: Club World, World Traveller Plus and World Traveller.

The increased frequency is expected to further strengthen arrivals from the UK, one of Saint Lucia’s key source markets.