Published December 30, 2025
Avero Airlines officially launched its first international flight with nonstop service from Wilmington International Airport (ILM) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. Launching in late December 2025, the new service marks a significant milestone for both the airline and Wilmington International Airport, marking the first-ever scheduled international service from the airport. This new connection enhances the region’s air travel options and opens up exciting opportunities for coastal North Carolina travelers looking to explore one of the Caribbean’s most popular vacation destinations.
Direct access to Punta Cana
The introduction of nonstop flights to Punta Cana provides Wilmington and the surrounding area with a direct gateway to one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations. Located on the east coast of the Dominican Republic, Punta Cana is known for its pristine beaches, luxury resorts, and world-class tourist attractions. This resort town is a popular spot for tourists seeking relaxation, water sports, and cultural experiences, making it a top choice for travelers seeking a tropical getaway.
Avero’s new service will operate twice a week on Wednesdays and Saturdays, offering travelers convenient midweek and weekend options. Flights will be operated using Boeing Next Generation 737 aircraft, designed to provide a comfortable and efficient travel experience on both short and long distances.
This route is especially important for residents of coastal North Carolina, as Wilmington International Airport has historically had limited international connectivity. The new Punta Cana service expands direct travel options, eliminates the need for connections or connecting flights through large hubs, and provides a seamless way to access the Caribbean from Wilmington.
Wilmington International Airport Network Expansion
Wilmington International Airport has experienced significant growth in recent years, and the addition of international flights to Punta Cana marks a new chapter in the airport’s development. The introduction of Avero Air’s nonstop service reflects the growing demand for more diverse flight options in the region and highlights Wilmington’s potential as a major player in the southeastern United States’ air travel network.
For travelers in the region, this new route offers an easier and faster way to visit Punta Cana without the hassle of connecting flights. This is especially beneficial for residents of Wilmington as well as nearby areas such as Myrtle Beach, Jacksonville, and other areas of North Carolina, who now have direct access to this popular Caribbean destination.
As the first and only airline to offer nonstop service between Wilmington and Punta Cana, Avero fills an important gap in the market, catering to both leisure travelers and business travelers in the Dominican Republic. The move is expected to not only increase tourism to Punta Cana, but also give Wilmington a competitive advantage that will attract new tourists and business opportunities to the area.
Punta Cana: The Caribbean’s premier destination
Punta Cana has long been one of the Caribbean’s top destinations for American and international travelers. Known for its beautiful beaches, crystal clear waters and wide variety of resorts, it is an ideal destination for both family vacations and romantic getaways. The area also has a number of golf courses, making it a hotspot for golfers seeking both relaxation and recreation. Visitors can combine relaxing on the beach with exciting activities such as water sports, ziplining, and tours to nearby nature reserves.
In addition to beautiful beaches, Punta Cana offers a rich cultural experience, including local markets, traditional Dominican cuisine, and historic buildings that reflect the island’s heritage. The area also serves as a gateway to other parts of the Dominican Republic, including the capital, Santo Domingo, which boasts historic colonial areas and a vibrant nightlife.
With Avero Airlines offering direct flights from Wilmington, travelers have easy access to Punta Cana’s many attractions and resorts for the perfect tropical getaway.
Tourism Growth in Coastal North Carolina
For Wilmington and the surrounding region, the new air service is expected to stimulate tourism and provide new opportunities for business and leisure travelers. Punta Cana’s easy access is especially valuable for those looking to plan a Caribbean vacation without the long travel times associated with flights from smaller airports.
Additionally, this route offers potential economic benefits to local businesses. Wilmington’s hotel, restaurant, and tour operators could see an increase in the number of travelers using the airport, while new international connections could lead to further expansion of Wilmington’s aviation network. Direct links to Caribbean destinations also position Wilmington as an attractive starting point for international travel, making it easy for visitors from outside the region to fly into Wilmington and travel from there to other U.S. cities or Caribbean locations.
Avero Airlines’ increasing presence in the US travel market
Known for its affordable fares and growing network of domestic and international flights, Avero continues to expand its presence in the United States and internationally. The addition of the Wilmington-Punta Cana route is just one part of the company’s broader strategy to strengthen its route network and provide more travel options for U.S. travelers.
Avero’s decision to offer nonstop service between Wilmington and Punta Cana reflects the airline’s commitment to serving underserved airports and offering travelers a more convenient nonstop option. As Avero expands its services, more travelers will have access to affordable and reliable flights to the Caribbean and other most popular destinations.
conclusion
Avero Airlines’ new nonstop flight from Wilmington to Punta Cana will make international travel more accessible for residents of coastal North Carolina. The service will provide nonstop flights to one of the Caribbean’s most popular destinations, enhance Wilmington International Airport’s global connectivity, and bring new tourism opportunities to both regions. With convenient flight schedules, affordable fares and reliable service, Avero is poised to become an integral part of Wilmington’s growing aviation network, making it easier for travelers from North Carolina to access Punta Cana and other international destinations.
