On Wednesday, Avelo Airlines officially launched its first international route from Wilmington International Airport (ILM) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, marking a historic milestone for the airport.
This new service is not just a first for ILM—it’s the only nonstop international flight available from the airport. Operating twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, Avelo is making tropical getaways more convenient and affordable for travelers in the region. The route, flown with Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft, builds on Avelo’s existing presence in Wilmington, where the airline began service in June 2022.
To celebrate the inaugural flight, ILM hosted a festive send-off complete with a Dominican Republic flag display, sweet treats for travelers, and classic Avelo fanfare. On arrival in Punta Cana, the aircraft was greeted with a water-cannon salute and lively music—a warm welcome symbolizing the start of a new era in regional travel.
As Avelo’s Founder and CEO Andrew Levy noted, the airline is proud to be the first and only carrier offering international flights from ILM. “We’re making it easier than ever for you to enjoy the Dominican Republic—and with 15 nonstop destinations now available from Wilmington, your next adventure is closer than you think.”
Continued Growth In Wilmington
The expansion isn't just about more flights—it's about growth for the entire community. Since establishing a crewmember base and operations hub at ILM on April 3, Avelo has stationed two aircraft there and flown over 580,000 passengers on nearly 5,000 flights. Along the way, the airline has created new job opportunities in aviation, from pilots and flight attendants to ground services and customer support.
You now have nonstop access to a wide range of destinations—from Boston and Detroit to Nashville and six popular Florida cities, plus Washington, D.C., New York, and beyond. And with Punta Cana now on the map, your winter escape to white-sand beaches and turquoise waters is just a short flight away.
Airport Director Jeff Bourk extended his thanks to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other partners for helping prepare ILM to handle international arrivals—a critical step in launching this new service.
New Jets Ordered
Nationwide, Avelo has carried over 8.6 million customers since April 2021 and now serves 41 cities across 15 states, Puerto Rico, and three international destinations: Jamaica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic. Looking ahead, the airline plans to modernize its fleet, becoming the first U.S. carrier to operate the Embraer 195-E2 by 2027, with up to 100 new aircraft on order.
For travelers in southeastern North Carolina, Avelo’s expansion means more choices, competitive pricing, and a growing connection to the world. Whether you're flying for leisure, visiting family, or exploring new horizons, your journey starts closer to home than ever before.
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