Puerto Rico Expands Air Connectivity with New U.S. and European Routes

What's Happening?

San Juan Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (SJU) in Puerto Rico has experienced significant growth in air traffic, with a 5.2% increase year-over-year through August 2025, and a 50% rise compared to 2019. The airport is set to welcome three new airlines: Aeromexico, Arajet, and Contour, expanding its international network with new routes to Mexico City, Punta Cana, Santo Domingo, and Dominica. JetBlue Airways has also introduced its first South American service from Puerto Rico to Medellin, Colombia. On the domestic front, JetBlue has launched flights to Providence and Westchester County, N.Y., while Frontier Airlines and Spirit Airlines have added routes to Washington Dulles and San Antonio, respectively. Delta Air Lines plans to introduce seasonal flights to Raleigh-Durham later this year.

Why It's Important?

The expansion of air routes is crucial for Puerto Rico's tourism and economic growth, as it enhances connectivity and accessibility for travelers. The introduction of new international and domestic flights is expected to boost tourism, a vital sector for the island's economy. The focus on expanding routes to key U.S. markets like Texas and Tennessee, as well as potential new services to Los Angeles and Phoenix, indicates a strategic effort to attract more visitors from the mainland. Additionally, the pursuit of new connections to London, Frankfurt, and Lima highlights Puerto Rico's ambition to diversify its tourism base and strengthen its position as a major Caribbean travel hub.

What's Next?

Puerto Rico aims to continue expanding its air connectivity, with a focus on rebuilding regional links following the collapse of Silver Airways. Efforts are underway to enhance intra-Caribbean connectivity, with Caribbean Airlines and Contour stepping in to fill the gap. The Puerto Rico Tourism Company is also prioritizing marketing initiatives to promote the island as a domestic destination for Americans, leveraging the advantage of no passport requirements. The ongoing expansion of air routes is expected to support the island's recovery from economic and political challenges, while diversifying its visitor origins.