Published on
August 14, 2025
Wilmington International Airport (ILM) has made a major announcement with the addition of its first non-stop flight outside the US, marking a first step in international travel for the airport. Effective December twenty four, 2023, travellers will have direct access to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic which will greatly benefit the airport and the growth of tourism in the region.
New Nonstop Routes Enhancing Travel Options
The introduction of Avelo Airlines seasonal flight to Punta Cana is expected to greatly benefit both Wilmington-area travellers and visitors to the region. The flight will operate twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, through the spring. Fares for one-way trips begin at one hundred twenty nine dollars, offering affordable travel to the Dominican Republic’s popular beaches, resorts, and vibrant culture.
In addition to the Punta Cana route, Avelo Airlines will expand its offerings with nonstop flights to West Palm Beach, Florida, starting November twenty. This route will also run on Thursdays and Saturdays, with one-way fares starting at fifty seven dollars. These new services increase the total number of Avelo destinations from Wilmington to seventeen, broadening the travel options available from the region.
Impact on Local Tourism and Economy
The addition of Punta Cana to ILM’s network is a boost to the local economy, particularly in the tourism sector. By providing direct access to an international vacation hotspot, Wilmington International Airport is enhancing its appeal to travellers looking to experience coastal North Carolina and its surrounding attractions.
The airport’s new international status also opens doors for future growth. The success of the Punta Cana route will play a crucial role in determining whether ILM can expand its international offerings. Airport officials view this as a stepping stone toward a broader range of international destinations.
Airport Upgrades to Accommodate International Flights
To prepare for the new international service, ILM has made several upgrades to its customs and border protection facilities. The airport has worked to bring its screening areas up to current standards, including converting an old jail cell into a bathroom and adding new seating areas. These enhancements ensure that the airport can efficiently handle the influx of international travellers.
Passengers using the new Punta Cana route will be required to go through U.S. Customs and Border Protection at the airport’s international terminal. To accommodate this, passengers are advised to park in the international terminal’s shuttle lot, which is half a mile from the main terminal. Parking here costs seven dollar per day, making it the most affordable option for those flying internationally.
Looking Ahead: Expansion and Future Prospects
Wilmington International Airport has already seen significant growth since Avelo Airlines began operations in 2022. According to the North Carolina Department of Transportation, Avelo has carried over two hundred twenty-five thousand passengers from ILM, contributing an estimated one point one million dollars billion to the local economy. Additionally, the airline’s presence has indirectly created over six thousand jobs in the Wilmington area.
As the airport continues to develop, there are plans for further improvements. In August 2023, the airport announced temporary changes to its drop-off and pick-up areas, with a new curbfront set to open in August. These updates are part of a larger expansion project aimed at accommodating increased passenger traffic.
Overview
The launch of the first nonstop international flight to Punta Cana marks a significant enhancement for Wilmington International Airport elevating it to a more prominent position in the international travel arena. This move improves travel convenience for tourists in the area and opens the possibilities for expansion of international flights in the future. Continued expansion of ILM will undoubtedly benefit the area’s tourism and economy.
