United Airlines is set to launch a new weekly service between Newark, New Jersey and Saint Croix beginning October 31, 2026.

The new route was announced by Acting Governor Tregenza Roach during a media conference on June 1, where he outlined several tourism-related developments for the territory.

The Saturday service will restore a long-sought direct connection between St Croix and the northeastern United States.

“This is a major step for St Croix,” Roach said.

“We have long advocated for the return of a direct flight from the northeastern United States to St Croix. I want to thank United Airlines for its confidence in the US Virgin Islands and for investing in St Croix.”

Roach also thanked Tourism Commissioner Jennifer Matarangas-King and the Department of Tourism for their work in securing the new service.

According to Roach, the additional airlift forms part of the administration’s wider strategy to strengthen St Croix’s economy and tourism sector.

He said the government has spent the past seven years working to significantly increase cruise ship calls to the island, strengthen Frederiksted as a cruise destination, improve visitor infrastructure and market St Croix as a destination known for its history, culture, cuisine, festivals and music.

“St Croix remains a viable economy that requires additional momentum to achieve the level of growth we all desire,” Roach said. “That is the work this administration has been doing.”