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U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism Welcomes New Contour Airlines Nonstop Service Between St. Thomas and St. Maarten

St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands (July 22, 2026) — The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is pleased to announce new nonstop air service between St. Thomas and St. Maarten aboard Contour Airlines, further strengthening regional connectivity and expanding travel opportunities throughout the Caribbean.

Beginning October 5, 2026, Contour Airlines will operate twice-weekly nonstop service between Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas and Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM) in St. Maarten. The new route provides residents and visitors with a convenient travel option while enhancing access between two of the Caribbean’s premier destinations.

The addition of this service reflects the Department’s continued commitment to expanding regional air connectivity, strengthening tourism partnerships, and improving access to the U.S. Virgin Islands. Increased air service supports overnight visitation, encourages multi-island travel, and creates new opportunities for business, leisure, and cultural exchange throughout the region.

“Expanding air service remains one of the Department’s highest priorities, and we are excited to welcome Contour Airlines’ new nonstop service between St. Thomas and St. Maarten,” said Jennifer Matarangas-King, Commissioner of Tourism for the U.S. Virgin Islands. “This new route strengthens connectivity within the Caribbean while creating new opportunities for visitors to experience the beauty, culture, and hospitality of the U.S. Virgin Islands. It also reinforces the longstanding relationships between our neighboring islands while supporting continued growth of our visitor economy.”

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. said the new service reflects the Administration’s continued focus on strengthening transportation infrastructure and creating opportunities for economic growth across the Territory.

“Reliable and convenient air access is essential to the continued success of the U.S. Virgin Islands,” said Governor Bryan. “This new nonstop service strengthens our ties with our Caribbean neighbors, creates new opportunities for commerce and tourism, and makes it easier for visitors to experience everything our islands have to offer. We appreciate Contour Airlines’ continued investment in our Territory and look forward to the positive impact this new route will have on our economy and our people.”

Officials at Princess Juliana International Airport also welcomed the announcement and emphasized the importance of expanded regional air service.

“We are pleased to welcome Contour Airlines’ continued investment in Sint Maarten through the launch of nonstop service to St. Thomas,” said Michael Cleaver, Chief Executive Officer of Princess Juliana International Airport. “Every new route strengthens the connectivity that is so vital to island communities. It expands opportunities for tourism and commerce, enhances mobility for residents, and provides travelers with greater choice as they explore the Caribbean.”

 

Flight Schedule (Effective October 5, 2026)

Mondays-

  • St. Thomas (STT) → St. Maarten (SXM): 11:35 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.
  • St. Maarten (SXM) → St. Thomas (STT): 1:15 p.m. – 2:10 p.m.

Fridays-

  • St. Thomas (STT) → St. Maarten (SXM): 12:35 p.m. – 1:35 p.m.
  • St. Maarten (SXM) → St. Thomas (STT): 2:30 p.m. – 3:25 p.m.

 

Flights will be operated aboard Contour Airlines’ 30-seat regional jet aircraft, featuring complimentary snacks, inflight service, and enhanced passenger comfort.

The launch of this new route represents another milestone in the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism’s ongoing efforts to expand airlift, strengthen regional partnerships, and improve access to the Territory. By increasing connectivity with neighboring Caribbean destinations, the Department continues to support sustainable tourism growth, strengthen the visitor economy, and create new opportunities for residents, businesses, and travelers alike.

 

For more information about the U.S. Virgin Islands, please visit https://www.visitusvi.com/.

 

About the U.S. Virgin Islands

About 40 miles east of Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands comprise a United States territory located in the northeastern Caribbean Sea. The three islands are St. Croix, St. John, and St. Thomas, where the capital of Charlotte Amalie is located. Perfect for leisure or business travel, the U.S. Virgin Islands features breathtaking, world-renowned beaches, an international marine industry, European architecture, and a burgeoning restaurant industry. No passports are required from U.S. citizens traveling from the U.S. mainland or Puerto Rico. Entry requirements for non-U.S. citizens are equivalent to entering the United States from any international country. Upon departure, a passport is required for non-U.S. citizens. For more information about the United States Virgin Islands, go to www.VisitUSVI.com, follow us on Instagram (@visitusvi) and Twitter (@usvitourism), and become a fan on Facebook (www.facebook.com/VisitUSVI).

 

Media Contacts:
Ayana Young
Development Counsellors International
[email protected]

Alani Henneman
U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism
[email protected]

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