does southwest fly to us virgin islands

3 min read 09-03-2025

Meta Description: Dreaming of a Southwest Airlines getaway to the US Virgin Islands? Find out if Southwest flies to St. Thomas, St. Croix, and St. John, and explore other convenient travel options for your Caribbean escape. Discover the best airlines, flight deals, and travel tips to make your island adventure unforgettable! (152 characters)

Introduction: Sun, Sand, and Southwest?

Planning a trip to the stunning US Virgin Islands? Many travelers wonder, "Does Southwest fly to the US Virgin Islands?" The short answer is: no, Southwest Airlines currently does not offer direct flights to St. Thomas, St. Croix, or St. John. This can be disappointing, as Southwest is known for its affordability and extensive domestic network. However, there are still plenty of excellent ways to reach these beautiful Caribbean islands.

Exploring Your Options: Reaching the US Virgin Islands

While Southwest doesn't fly directly to the US Virgin Islands, several other airlines do. Let's explore your best options:

1. Major Airlines Offering Flights to the USVI

Several major airlines offer direct flights to Cyril E. King Airport (STT) on St. Thomas, the main airport for the US Virgin Islands. These typically include:

American Airlines: Often offers competitive fares and frequent flights from various US cities.
Delta Air Lines: Another major player with numerous routes to St. Thomas.
JetBlue: Provides a good mix of flights and sometimes offers attractive deals.
United Airlines: Offers connecting flights and occasional direct flights depending on the season.

These airlines frequently offer connecting flights to St. Croix (STX) and ferry services are readily available to reach St. John from St. Thomas.

2. Finding the Best Flight Deals

Securing affordable flights to the US Virgin Islands requires some strategic planning:

Book in advance: The earlier you book, the better your chances of finding a cheaper flight.
Be flexible with your dates: Mid-week flights and travel during the off-season are usually cheaper.
Use flight comparison websites: Websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, Kayak, and Expedia allow you to compare prices from multiple airlines simultaneously.
Consider alternative airports: Check flights into nearby airports if direct flights to your preferred island are expensive.

3. Traveling to St. Croix and St. John

While St. Thomas boasts the largest airport, getting to St. Croix and St. John is easy:

St. Croix (STX): Several airlines offer direct flights to Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) on St. Croix. You can also consider connecting flights from St. Thomas.
St. John: There's no airport on St. John. You can easily access the island by taking a short ferry ride from St. Thomas.

4. Alternatives to Flying: Reaching the USVI by Sea

For a more adventurous journey, consider traveling to the US Virgin Islands by cruise ship or private boat. This is a great option for those who enjoy a slower pace and want to explore multiple islands.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Q: Why doesn't Southwest fly to the US Virgin Islands?

A: Southwest Airlines focuses primarily on domestic US travel. Expanding to international destinations like the US Virgin Islands would require significant investment and adjustments to their operational model.

Q: What is the best time to fly to the US Virgin Islands?

A: The best time to visit is generally during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) for pleasant weather and fewer crowds. Summer offers the warmest temperatures, but you might encounter higher prices and more tourists.

Q: How much does a flight to the US Virgin Islands cost?

A: The cost of a flight varies greatly depending on the time of year, your origin city, and the airline you choose. Expect to pay anywhere from a few hundred to over a thousand dollars for a roundtrip ticket.

Conclusion: Your USVI Adventure Awaits

While Southwest Airlines might not be your direct ticket to paradise, numerous airlines offer convenient and affordable flights to the US Virgin Islands. By using flight comparison tools, booking in advance, and being flexible with your travel dates, you can plan an unforgettable trip to these stunning Caribbean islands. Remember to factor in travel time to St. Croix and St. John once you arrive in St. Thomas. So start planning your escape – your Caribbean dream vacation awaits!