Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment Charles Fernandez has welcomed the launch of Sunrise Airways’ new non-stop service linking Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic (SDQ) with Antigua (ANU), describing the new route as a significant step forward in strengthening regional connectivity and tourism growth.

Fernandez delivered the remarks during a ribbon-cutting ceremony at V.C. Bird International Airport on March 3 to mark the inaugural arrival of the Sunrise Airways flight from Santo Domingo.

Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Minister of Tourism The Hon. Charles Fernandez, Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism Sean Cenac, Acting CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority Philmore Andrew welcomed the launch of Sunrise Airways Santo Domingo-Antigua flight on March 3, 2026, during a ribbon-cutting with Eastern Caribbean Representative for Sunrise Airways Colin Piper and other Sunrise Airways officials. (Photos courtesy, The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority)

Speaking at the ceremony, the tourism minister emphasized that the new service reflects Antigua and Barbuda’s growing role as a regional aviation hub and aligns with the government’s broader vision for expanding airlift and connectivity throughout the Caribbean.

“This new non-stop service between Santo Domingo and Antigua represents a meaningful advancement in strengthening regional connectivity and integration,” Fernandez said. “Our central location within the Caribbean makes Antigua and Barbuda an ideal gateway for travel, business, and tourism across the region.”

The minister also highlighted the government’s continued investment in aviation infrastructure, noting the US$50 million upgrades currently underway at V.C. Bird International Airport, which are designed to support increased air traffic and long-term tourism expansion.

Fernandez further pointed to the strong cultural and community ties between Antigua and Barbuda and the Dominican Republic, noting that approximately 14,000 residents of Dominican origin live in Antigua and Barbuda.

“This service will be very meaningful to the Dominican diaspora living here,” he said. “It will strengthen family connections while also creating greater opportunities for travel, trade, and tourism.”

Eastern Caribbean Representative for Sunrise Airways Colin Piper described Antigua and Barbuda as a strategic partner in the airline’s expanding Eastern Caribbean network.

Colin Piper

“For Sunrise Airways, Antigua and Barbuda is not simply another destination. It is a strategic pillar within our Eastern Caribbean network,” Piper said. “Antigua’s geographic position, strong aviation infrastructure, and globally recognised tourism product make it a natural partner in our vision to bring the Caribbean closer together.”

Also welcoming the new route was Acting CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority Philmore Andrew, who said the airline’s decision to launch the service reflects confidence in Antigua and Barbuda’s aviation sector.

“The decision for Sunrise Airways to invest in this route demonstrates confidence in our country and the continued growth of V.C. Bird International Airport as a regional hub,” Andrew said.

The twice-weekly service will operate Tuesdays and Saturdays. Tuesday flights depart Santo Domingo at 1:00 p.m., arriving in Antigua at 2:35 p.m., with the return flight leaving Antigua at 3:20 p.m. Saturday flights depart Santo Domingo at 9:00 a.m., arriving at 10:35 a.m., with the return service departing Antigua at 11:20 a.m.

The route will be operated using an Embraer ERJ140 regional jet with seating for up to 30 passengers.

To mark the launch, Sunrise Airways has introduced a special promotional fare of US$199 one-way between Santo Domingo and Antigua and Barbuda. Travelers can book flights through the airline’s mobile app, on its website, or through travel agents across the region.

The new service forms part of ongoing efforts to improve regional airlift and strengthen collaboration among Caribbean destinations.