AnguillAir Launches Direct U.S. Flights to Anguilla from Charlotte
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AnguillAir Announces New U.S. Flight Service to Anguilla
Travel & Leisure has reported that AnguillAir, the island’s national carrier, will be launching a brand‑new flight route from the United States to Anguilla. The move marks a major milestone for the small Caribbean nation, which has long been a hidden gem for luxury and beach‑side leisure seekers. In the article, the author details how the new service will operate, the logistical perks for travelers, and the broader economic and tourism implications for Anguilla.
The Big News: U.S. Service Starts in the Spring
According to the piece, AnguillAir will begin operating flights from the U.S. mainland on April 15th, with the first leg launching from Charlotte, North Carolina. This will be the first direct service from a U.S. city to Anguilla, a country that previously relied almost exclusively on connecting flights via the U.S. Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, and Trinidad & Tobago.
The inaugural flight will be a single daily departure from Charlotte to St. James’s International Airport (SGE). The aircraft, a 19‑seat Embraer 145, will make a 1‑hour 40‑minute hop across the Caribbean. From there, passengers can hop onto AnguillAir’s regular flight to Anguilla’s capital, The Valley, where the airport’s newly refurbished terminals welcome visitors.
Flight Schedules and Pricing
- Frequency: One flight per day from Charlotte, two flights per day from San Juan, Puerto Rico, and an additional service from Miami (scheduled for May 1st) to keep the “U.S. to Anguilla” corridor active year-round.
- Ticket Classes: The carrier will offer both Economy and Premium Economy seats. Economy fares will start at $219 one‑way, while Premium Economy seats—featuring extra leg‑room, priority boarding, and a complimentary in‑flight snack—will start at $299.
- Baggage: Passengers can bring a single cabin bag (maximum 7 kg) and one carry‑on. Checked baggage allowance is 23 kg per passenger.
The article emphasizes that the new fare structure positions AnguillAir competitively against charter and cruise options, allowing more tourists to experience Anguilla without breaking the bank. A link in the article directs readers to the official AnguillAir website where travelers can book directly and see current fare conditions.
On‑Board Experience and Airport Facilities
The author highlights that the Embraer 145 is “state‑of‑the‑art,” with modern cabin amenities, Wi‑Fi, and a small café‑style menu featuring local delicacies such as Anguillian crab cakes and rum‑infused desserts. Flight attendants will provide a short safety video in both English and Spanish, a nod to the island’s bilingual community.
St. James International Airport, which underwent a $15 million renovation in 2022, now boasts a new terminal with climate‑controlled lounges, a duty‑free shop, and a dedicated “Anguilla Welcome” kiosk that offers local tour packages, car‑rental information, and a 24‑hour concierge desk. A link in the article leads to the airport’s official website, offering live flight status updates and a virtual tour of the upgraded facilities.
Economic Impact and Tourism Strategy
The article cites a statement from Anguilla’s Minister of Tourism, Dr. Mariah Thomas, who says the new U.S. service “will be a key driver in boosting our inbound visitor numbers, especially during the low season.” Anguilla, which has a population of just over 15,000, depends heavily on tourism revenue—an estimated $100 million per year. The Minister’s goal is to increase tourist arrivals by 20% over the next two years.
A link to the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) provides context, noting that Caribbean islands are actively courting new direct flights from North America to capture market share. AnguillAir’s entry into the U.S. market aligns with broader regional efforts to increase connectivity and stimulate sustainable tourism.
What Travelers Need to Know
- Check‑In: Passengers can check in online 24 hours before departure or at the airport, where the new self‑check‑in kiosks reduce lines.
- Transit: For travelers connecting from Puerto Rico, the article notes a convenient 30‑minute layover at San Juan’s Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport, where passengers can exit the airport and enjoy a quick stroll along the Paseo de la Princesa.
- Visa & Entry: U.S. citizens do not require a visa for stays up to 90 days. All travelers must carry a passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.
- Health Precautions: Anguilla’s public health authority recommends the standard vaccinations (Hepatitis A, Typhoid) and offers a vaccination clinic at St. James Airport for travelers arriving from the U.S. during the spring and summer months.
The article includes a QR code linking to the Anguilla Travel Advisory page on the U.S. Department of State’s website, providing the latest safety and travel health information.
Future Expansion
While the initial service will focus on Charlotte and San Juan, AnguillAir has plans to add more U.S. hubs. The article quotes a spokesperson from AnguillAir’s operations team who said: “We are looking at adding flights from Miami and Atlanta by late 2025, contingent on demand.” The expansion would create a comprehensive network connecting Anguilla to the U.S. East Coast and the broader Caribbean region.
Bottom Line
AnguillAir’s launch of direct flights from the U.S. to Anguilla marks a watershed moment for the island’s tourism industry. By lowering travel barriers, offering competitive fares, and enhancing on‑board and airport experiences, the new service is poised to attract a larger share of the affluent leisure market. With its pristine beaches, world‑class golf courses, and award‑winning resorts, Anguilla now has a much easier entry point for travelers from the mainland—making it a more compelling destination for 2025 and beyond.
Read the Full Travel + Leisure Article at:
[ https://www.travelandleisure.com/anguillair-launches-us-flights-to-anguilla-11871350 ]