Avelo Airlines Launches First International Service from Wilmington to Punta Cana

Avelo Airlines, known for its affordable and reliable travel options, has marked a significant milestone by launching its first international flights from Wilmington International Airport (ILM) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic. This represents not only the inaugural international route for ILM but also establishes Avelo as the first airline to provide nonstop service between these two destinations.

The airline celebrated the occasion on December 24, 2025, with a festive gathering at the airport, featuring the Dominican Republic flag and a variety of treats. A warm welcome awaited travelers upon their arrival in Punta Cana, complete with a water-cannon salute and lively music, adding to the festive atmosphere.

Avelo's new service will operate twice per week on Wednesdays and Saturdays using Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft. The airline initially launched operations in Wilmington in June 2022, since then serving over 580,000 customers through nearly 5,000 flights. CEO Andrew Levy emphasized that the new international service enhances the options available for Wilmington-area travelers, making it easier and more cost-effective for them to visit the Dominican Republic.

In addition to the new route to Punta Cana, Avelo has established ILM as a crew member base and operational hub, investing in local jobs in the aviation sector. The airline currently offers 15 nonstop routes from Wilmington to various U.S. cities, including Boston, Detroit, Nashville, New Haven, and more.

This international route is a strategic addition to Avelo's expanding network which now includes nearly 50 destinations across the United States and various international spots including Jamaica and Mexico. The commencement of this service is anticipated not only to benefit local travelers but also to attract visitors to Coastal North Carolina, thereby boosting tourism in the region.

ILM Airport Director Jeff Bourk expressed gratitude to U.S. Customs and Border Protection and other partners for their role in making this service possible. He noted that this launch is a significant achievement in ILM's history, providing residents with new travel opportunities just in time for the holiday season.

Avelo's Commitment to Reliable Travel

Since its inception in 2021, Avelo has built a reputation for reliability, ranking #1 in on-time performance and achieving the lowest cancellation rate in the U.S. airline industry in 2024. This is a testament to their focus on customer satisfaction, evidenced by their impressive Net Promoter Scores (NPS) which position them among the most admired brands globally.

Avelo Airlines also recently introduced Avelo PLUS, a membership program that offers exclusive benefits such as discounted fares and priority boarding, further enhancing the travel experience for frequent flyers.

The airline's mission is to inspire travel by providing convenient, safe, and affordable flight options, with a commitment to customer service excellence. Alongside its competitive pricing, Avelo offers a range of seating options aimed at enhancing passenger comfort and convenience.

With the potential for growth and the ability to offer more destinations, Avelo Airlines is well-positioned to continue delivering exceptional service and expanding its footprint in the evolving aviation market. For further information and to book flights, travelers can visit AveloAir.com.