Southwest Airlines to Expand to St. Thomas, Boost Revenue Base

Southwest Airlines is expanding to St Thomas in the US Virgin Islands, its ninth island destination in the Atlantic basin, starting in 2026. The addition will enhance service offerings, attract more leisure travelers, and boost ticket sales. The airline plans to offer new fare bundles, reconfigure its fleet with premium seating options, and improve customer experience. The expansion aims to capture a larger market share and expand its revenue base.

Southwest Airlines Co. (NYSE: LUV) has announced its intention to add St. Thomas in the U.S. Virgin Islands to its network, marking the first new destination since 2021. The service is expected to begin in early 2026, pending governmental approvals. This expansion will enhance Southwest's service offerings, attract more leisure travelers, and boost ticket sales.

St. Thomas will be Southwest's ninth island destination in the Atlantic Basin, joining Aruba, The Bahamas, Cayman Islands, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Jamaica, Puerto Rico, and Turks and Caicos Islands. Southwest also offers international service to Belize, two destinations in Costa Rica, and three destinations in Mexico.

"We are listening closely to what our Customers want—from new products and loyalty benefits to new destinations," said Bob Jordan, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors at Southwest Airlines. "We want to make Southwest Airlines the easy and obvious choice every time, and this is another meaningful step in our ongoing transformation."

Southwest's expansion to St. Thomas is part of a broader strategy to grow its network and capture a larger market share. The airline plans to offer new fare bundles, reconfigure its fleet with premium seating options, and improve the overall customer experience. These changes aim to attract more travelers and increase revenue.

"We are excited at the announcement of new airlift into St. Thomas with Southwest Airlines," shares Commissioner Joseph Boschulte of the U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism. "As a destination, this expands our accessibility and connectivity to travelers, allowing for seamless and expanded travel opportunities to experience the natural beauty, vibrant culture, and warm hospitality that define the U.S. Virgin Islands."

Governor Albert Bryan Jr. of the U.S. Virgin Islands expressed his pride in welcoming this new partnership with Southwest Airlines, highlighting the potential for increased tourism and economic growth.

Southwest Airlines Co. operates one of the world's most admired and awarded airlines, offering its one-of-a-kind value and Hospitality at 117 airports across 11 countries. The airline carries more air travelers flying nonstop within the United States than any other airline.

References:
[1] https://www.southwestairlinesinvestorrelations.com/news-and-events/news-releases/2025/07-14-2025-121514599
[2] https://www.newsbreak.com/daily-voice-525087/4106935459553-southwest-airlines-launching-flights-to-st-thomas-usvi
[3] https://www.marketscreener.com/quote/stock/SOUTHWEST-AIRLINES-CO-13439/news/ISLAND-INCREASE-SOUTHWEST-TO-SERVE-ST-THOMAS-U-S-VIRGIN-ISLANDS-BEGINNING-IN-EARLY-2026-50500929/