ST. THOMAS — Contour Airlines will begin operating twice-weekly nonstop flights between St. Thomas and St. Maarten on October 5, adding a new regional travel option for residents, visitors and businesses moving between the two Caribbean destinations.

The service will connect Cyril E. King Airport on St. Thomas with Princess Juliana International Airport in St. Maarten every Monday and Friday, according to the V.I. Department of Tourism.

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

Tourism officials said the route is intended to improve regional access, encourage overnight stays and multi-island travel, and create additional opportunities for business, leisure and cultural exchange.

On Mondays, the flight from St. Thomas will depart at 11:35 a.m. and arrive in St. Maarten at 12:30 p.m. The return flight will leave St. Maarten at 1:15 p.m. and arrive in St. Thomas at 2:10 p.m.

On Fridays, the St. Thomas departure is scheduled for 12:35 p.m., arriving in St. Maarten at 1:35 p.m. The return flight will depart St. Maarten at 2:30 p.m. and reach St. Thomas at 3:25 p.m.

Tourism Commissioner Jennifer Matarangas-King said expanding air service remains a priority for the department.

“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.”

The department said the additional service forms part of its efforts to expand regional airlift, strengthen tourism partnerships and improve access to the territory.

Gov. Albert Bryan Jr. said the new route reflects the administration’s focus on strengthening transportation infrastructure and creating additional opportunities for economic activity 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.”

Princess Juliana Airport Welcomes Route

Officials at Princess Juliana International Airport also welcomed the service, emphasizing the importance of travel connections among Caribbean islands.

“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.”

The Department of Tourism said the route will support its broader efforts to improve access to the Virgin Islands, strengthen the visitor economy and expand travel options for residents, businesses and visitors throughout the region.