Antigua and Barbuda tourism and aviation officials celebrated the inaugural Sunrise Airways non-stop service connecting Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (SDQ) with Antigua (ANU), a milestone aimed at bolstering regional air travel.
A welcome ceremony at V.C. Bird International Airport featured remarks from The Honourable Charles Fernandez, Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment; Sunrise Airways Eastern Caribbean Representative Colin Piper; and Acting CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority, Philmore Andrew.
Minister Fernandez highlighted the significance of the new route, noting that it enhances regional connectivity and underscores the government’s commitment to tourism growth. “We recognise the strategic importance of Antigua and Barbuda as a hub in the Caribbean. Sunrise Airways’ addition of this route strengthens travel, business, and tourism across the region. With the recent US$50 million upgrades at V.C. Bird International Airport, we are better positioned to welcome visitors, and our international airport in Barbuda now allows passengers to easily experience both islands,” he said. The minister also noted the impact for Antigua’s Dominican community, with approximately 14,000 residents originating from the Dominican Republic.
Colin Piper emphasized the airline’s commitment to building a connected Caribbean network. “Antigua is not simply another destination for Sunrise Airways; it is a strategic pillar within our Eastern Caribbean operations. Since May 2024, we have focused on routes that strengthen regional connectivity sustainably. This service enhances links between Antigua and Santo Domingo while creating pathways for expanded connections to the Americas. Improved airlift stimulates commerce, facilitates business travel, supports tourism, and strengthens regional supply chains.”
Acting CEO Philmore Andrew welcomed the partnership, noting that Sunrise Airways’ investment demonstrates confidence in Antigua and the continued growth of V.C. Bird International as a regional hub. “We value this collaboration and look forward to the benefits arising from increased connectivity,” he said.
The twice-weekly service will operate on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Tuesday flights depart Santo Domingo at 1:00 p.m., arriving in Antigua at 2:35 p.m., with return service at 3:20 p.m. Saturday flights depart Santo Domingo at 9:00 a.m., arriving at 10:35 a.m., with return service at 11:20 a.m. The route is served by Embraer ERJ140 regional jets, offering one class of service for up to 30 passengers.
To mark the launch, Sunrise Airways has introduced a promotional one-way fare of US$199 between Santo Domingo and Antigua and Barbuda. Tickets are available via the Sunrise Airways mobile app, website, or through authorized travel agents in the region.
The new service reflects ongoing efforts by Caribbean airlines and governments to improve intra-regional connectivity, creating opportunities for tourism, trade, and cultural exchange across the islands.
