Key Takeaways
• Caribbean Airlines starts non-stop San Juan–Dominica flights August 15, 2025, up to three times weekly.
• Toronto–Dominica flights via Trinidad increase to four southbound and two northbound weekly flights.
• New routes fill gap left by Silver Airways, boosting tourism and diaspora connectivity in Dominica.
Caribbean Airlines is set to transform travel to Dominica in 2025, launching new non-stop flights from San Juan and boosting service from Toronto. These changes start in August and aim to help tourists, the Dominican diaspora, and regional travelers reach Dominica more easily and often. The move comes just weeks after Silver Airways stopped flying the San Juan–Dominica route, leaving a gap that Caribbean Airlines is now filling.
The new San Juan–Dominica flights begin August 15, 2025, running up to three times a week. At the same time, flights from Toronto to Dominica, which go through Trinidad, are increasing from once a week to four times southbound and two times northbound. These upgrades mean more choices and better schedules for people traveling for vacation, family visits, or business.
Why the New Flights Matter
Dominica has long struggled with limited air connections, making it hard for visitors and locals to travel in and out of the island. The sudden exit of Silver Airways in mid-2025 made things even tougher, especially for those relying on the San Juan route to reach the United States 🇺🇸 and other Caribbean destinations. Caribbean Airlines’ decision to step in is a direct response to this problem.
According to analysis by VisaVerge.com, the new flights are expected to boost tourism, help the Dominican diaspora stay connected, and support the country’s economy. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Dominica’s Minister for Tourism, welcomed the news, saying it will help bring more visitors, increase tourism spending, and support Dominica’s long-term goal of better air access. She also pointed out that these changes come as the country prepares to build a new international airport, which will further improve travel options in the future.
Flight Schedules and Details
Travelers now have more flexibility thanks to the new and expanded routes:
- San Juan–Dominica:
- Departure from San Juan: 4:00 p.m.
- Return from Dominica: 10:00 a.m.
These times are designed to make travel easier, with afternoon departures from San Juan and comfortable morning returns from Dominica. This helps reduce early morning rushes and long layovers.
- Toronto–Dominica (via Trinidad):
- Southbound: Four flights per week
- Northbound: Two flights per week
Travelers from Toronto and New York can connect through Port of Spain, Trinidad, with smoother transfer processes.
- Booking:
Official schedules, fares, and booking options are available on the Caribbean Airlines website and through authorized travel agents.
How to Book and Travel: Step-by-Step
- Check Schedules:
Visit the Caribbean Airlines website or contact a travel agent for the latest flight times and seat availability. -
Book Tickets:
Reserve your seat online, by phone, or through a travel agency. Because demand is expected to be high, booking early is a good idea. -
Travel Requirements:
Make sure you meet all entry requirements for Dominica and any countries you pass through, like Trinidad for Toronto flights. For official entry rules, travelers should check the Dominica government’s Ministry of Tourism page.
- At the Airport:
Arrive at least two hours before your flight for check-in and security. -
Connections:
If you’re traveling from Toronto or New York, you’ll connect in Port of Spain, Trinidad. Caribbean Airlines has worked to make these transfers as smooth as possible.
Who Benefits from the Changes?
The new flights are a big win for several groups:
- Tourists:
More flights mean easier access to Dominica’s natural beauty, including its rainforests, hot springs, and famous hiking trails. The new routes are expected to increase visitor arrivals and boost spending in hotels, restaurants, and local businesses. -
Dominican Diaspora:
Many Dominicans live in Canada 🇨🇦, the United States 🇺🇸, and other Caribbean islands. The expanded flights make it easier for families to visit each other, attend important events, and stay connected to their roots. -
Business Travelers:
Improved air links help businesspeople and investors reach Dominica more easily, supporting trade, investment, and job creation. -
Regional Travelers:
The restoration of the San Juan hub is especially important, as it offers vital onward connections to the U.S. mainland and other Caribbean destinations. This fills a gap left by Silver Airways and helps people move around the region more freely.
Official Reactions and Stakeholder Views
The Government of Dominica worked closely with Caribbean Airlines to make these changes happen. The Discover Dominica Authority and regional tourism groups have praised the move, calling it a model for how governments and airlines can work together to solve real problems.
Tourism Minister Denise Charles-Pemberton said, “This is a major step forward for Dominica. The new flights will help us welcome more visitors, support our tourism industry, and make it easier for Dominicans abroad to come home.”
Travel industry experts agree. They say restoring the San Juan link is key for U.S. market access and that more flights from Toronto and Trinidad will help bring in visitors from new places. This should help reduce travel bottlenecks and make Dominica a more attractive destination.
The Dominican diaspora and business community also stand to gain. More flights mean more chances for family visits, business trips, and investment, which strengthens ties between Dominica and its overseas communities.
Background: Why Air Connectivity Matters for Dominica
Dominica is known for its lush landscapes and eco-tourism, but getting there has never been easy. The island has relied on regional carriers and indirect routes, often requiring travelers to make several connections. This has limited tourism growth and made it harder for the diaspora to visit.
When Silver Airways stopped flying the San Juan–Dominica route in mid-2025, it created an urgent need for new connections. Many travelers found themselves stranded or forced to take longer, more expensive routes. Caribbean Airlines’ quick response has helped restore confidence and made travel more predictable.
Long-Term Vision: A New International Airport
The current improvements are part of a bigger plan. Dominica is working on building a new international airport, which will allow for direct flights from more places and larger planes. This project is expected to transform the island’s accessibility and tourism potential in the coming years.
As Dominica sponsors major tourism events, like Caribbean Week in New York, it is clear the country wants to raise its profile and attract new markets. The new flights from San Juan and Toronto are important steps toward that goal.
Practical Implications for Immigration and Mobility
For people planning to visit or return to Dominica, these changes mean:
- Shorter Travel Times:
Non-stop and more frequent flights reduce the need for long layovers and multiple connections. -
More Flexibility:
Travelers can choose from more days and times, making it easier to plan trips around work, school, or family events. -
Easier Access for the Diaspora:
Dominicans living abroad can visit home more often, attend family gatherings, and stay connected to their culture. -
Business and Investment Opportunities:
Improved air links make it easier for investors and businesspeople to visit Dominica, explore opportunities, and support local development.
What Travelers Need to Know
If you’re planning a trip to Dominica, here are some important tips:
- Book Early:
With increased demand, flights may fill up quickly, especially around holidays and major events.
- Check Entry Requirements:
Make sure you have the right documents to enter Dominica and any countries you transit through. This may include a valid passport, visa (if required), and proof of onward travel. For the latest entry rules, visit the Dominica government’s Ministry of Tourism page. -
Stay Informed:
Flight schedules can change, so check the Caribbean Airlines website or contact your travel agent for updates. -
Plan for Connections:
If you’re connecting through Trinidad, allow enough time for transfers. Caribbean Airlines has worked to streamline this process, but it’s always good to double-check your itinerary.
Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Dominica’s Air Travel
The launch of new flights from San Juan and the expansion from Toronto mark a turning point for Dominica. These changes are expected to bring more visitors, support the local economy, and make life easier for Dominicans at home and abroad.
As the government continues to invest in aviation infrastructure, including the new international airport, even more improvements are likely. This could mean direct flights from new cities, larger planes, and better facilities for travelers.
Quotes from Key Stakeholders
- Denise Charles-Pemberton, Minister for Tourism:
“The new flights are a game-changer for Dominica. They will help us grow our tourism industry, support our economy, and keep our diaspora connected.” -
Discover Dominica Authority:
“This partnership with Caribbean Airlines shows what can be achieved when the public and private sectors work together. It’s a win for everyone—tourists, locals, and the wider region.” -
Travel Industry Analyst:
“Restoring the San Juan route is vital for Dominica’s access to the U.S. market. The increased service from Toronto and Trinidad will help diversify the visitor base and reduce travel headaches.”
Resources for Travelers
- Caribbean Airlines:
- Official website for flight schedules, booking, and customer service.
- Discover Dominica Authority:
- discoverdominica.com for tourism information and travel tips.
- Government of the Commonwealth of Dominica:
- dominica.gov.dm for official entry requirements and updates.
Conclusion: A New Era for Dominica’s Air Travel
Caribbean Airlines’ new and expanded flights from San Juan and Toronto are more than just schedule changes—they represent a major step forward for Dominica’s air connectivity. These improvements make it easier for tourists, the diaspora, and business travelers to reach the island, supporting economic growth and stronger community ties.
The changes are the result of close cooperation between the airline and the Government of Dominica, showing how public and private groups can work together to solve real problems. As Dominica looks to the future, with a new international airport on the horizon, even more progress is expected.
For anyone planning a trip to Dominica, now is a great time to take advantage of the new routes and improved schedules. Whether you’re visiting family, exploring the island’s natural wonders, or doing business, Caribbean Airlines’ expanded service makes getting to Dominica easier than ever before.
As reported by VisaVerge.com, these developments are likely to have lasting benefits for tourism, the economy, and the Dominican community worldwide. For the latest updates and official information, travelers should always check with Caribbean Airlines and the Government of Dominica before booking their trips.
Learn Today
Non-stop flight → A flight that travels directly between two airports without intermediate stops.
Dominican diaspora → Communities of Dominica-born people living outside their home country, maintaining cultural and family ties.
Port of Spain → The capital city of Trinidad and Tobago, a regional air travel hub for Caribbean connections.
Silver Airways → An American regional airline that formerly operated the San Juan–Dominica route, now discontinued.
Caribbean Airlines → The national airline of Trinidad and Tobago operating regional flights across the Caribbean.
This Article in a Nutshell
Caribbean Airlines launches new direct flights to Dominica from San Juan and expands Toronto service in August 2025. These changes fill a gap left by Silver Airways, improve travel convenience, and support tourism, diaspora connections, and economic growth, marking a new era in Dominica’s air access and regional mobility.
— By VisaVerge.com
