Published December 26, 2025
Avero Airlines made history by launching its first international service from Wilmington International Airport, offering nonstop flights to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This milestone is significant because it marks the first time international flights have opened in Wilmington and Avero is the only airline offering nonstop service to this popular Caribbean destination. This new route will not only strengthen Wilmington’s connections to the world, but will also open up new opportunities for local travelers to explore the Dominican Republic and for visitors to experience the charms of coastal North Carolina. This development further strengthens Avero’s commitment to making air travel affordable and accessible to the Wilmington community.
Avero Airlines officially launched its first international service from Wilmington International Airport (ILM), offering nonstop flights to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This is a significant milestone for ILM, making Avero the first airport to serve international flights as the only airline offering nonstop service between Wilmington and Punta Cana.
The airline will fly the new route twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, using Boeing’s next-generation 737 aircraft. This move further expands Avero’s commitment to providing affordable and convenient air travel options to the Wilmington and Island Beach areas, an initiative launched in June 2022. Passengers can easily book flights through Avelo’s website AveloAir.com.
To commemorate this historic launch, a special celebration was held at ILM. The event included a Dominican flag ceremony, sweets from the airport, and Avero-themed festivities. When passengers arrived in Punta Cana, they were welcomed with celebratory water cannons and lively music, making the experience even more memorable.
The introduction of the Punta Cana route is a major step for both Avero and Wilmington. As the first and only airline to offer ILM international service, Avero offers local passengers convenient and affordable travel options to one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations. At the same time, the airline makes it easier for travelers from Punta Cana to visit Wilmington and explore the beauty of the North Carolina coast.
The launch of international services at ILM comes after a period of collaboration with U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other local stakeholders. This partnership enables ILM to handle scheduled commercial international services for the first time in its history. The addition of Punta Cana to Avero’s network strengthens Wilmington’s connections to the world and supports its growth as an emerging travel hub.
Avero Airlines has steadily expanded its presence at Wilmington International Airport since beginning service there in June 2022. The company established ILM as an operational hub in 2025, demonstrating a long-term investment in the region’s aviation infrastructure. Avelo now has a fleet of two Boeing 737 aircraft based at ILM, allowing it to offer a more affordable and convenient option for travelers. Since entering service, Avero has carried more than 580,000 passengers on approximately 5,000 flights from ILM.
Avero’s expansion in ILM is not only aimed at new routes, but also job creation. The company contributes to the local economy by providing new employment opportunities in a variety of sectors, including pilots, flight attendants, customer support, and ground services. This commitment to the local workforce is a key part of Avero’s strategy to improve the travel experience for Wilmington residents and visitors.
The airline currently operates 15 nonstop flights from Wilmington International Airport, offering routes to major cities such as Boston, Detroit, Nashville, New York, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C., as well as several cities in Florida. The addition of Punta Cana brings a new international dimension to Avero’s growing network.
Avero’s route expansion will not only benefit Wilmington travelers, but will also strengthen the city’s position as an important gateway to coastal North Carolina. Avero makes it easy for people to explore the region by offering affordable direct flights to both domestic and international destinations. With its rich history, charming coastal atmosphere, and beautiful beaches, Wilmington continues to attract more visitors each year, and Avelo’s services help improve its accessibility.
The introduction of Punta Cana as a non-stop destination opens up exciting opportunities for Wilmington tourism. The Dominican Republic is a popular vacation spot known for its beautiful beaches, vibrant culture, and rich history. Avero’s direct service makes it easier for Caribbean travelers to visit Wilmington, creating new avenues for tourism and boosting the local economy. Similarly, Wilmington residents enjoy convenient access to one of the Caribbean’s most popular vacation destinations.
As Wilmington continues to grow as a travel hub, Avero continues to play an important role in the city’s aviation industry. The airline’s mission is to provide low-cost, reliable air travel to domestic and international passengers. By expanding its network, Avero is making travel more convenient for residents while providing easy access to Wilmington and the surrounding areas for visitors.
Avero’s continued growth at Wilmington International Airport is more than just an expansion, it is a testament to the growing demand for air travel in the region. The airline’s additional routes and the creation of more jobs will strengthen Wilmington’s position as a vibrant and connected community. Avero’s commitment to affordable travel options ensures Wilmington remains a key destination for both leisure and business travelers.
Avero Airlines made history by launching the first international service from Wilmington International Airport to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, marking the airport’s debut in international air travel. This new route expands Wilmington’s global connections and provides local travelers with an affordable and convenient way to explore the Caribbean.
In conclusion, Avero Airlines’ launch of nonstop service to Punta Cana is a major accomplishment for Wilmington International Airport. The addition of this international flight is an important step in the airport’s development and growth as a regional travel hub. Avero’s commitment to providing affordable and convenient air travel continues to benefit Wilmington residents and visitors alike, strengthening the region’s connections to the world and elevating its status as a premier destination on the East Coast.
