Virgin Atlantic is gearing up to return to Saint Lucia during the 2021 peak winter tourism season, flying three times a week from London Heathrow (LHR) to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF).
The UK has been Saint Lucia’s second-largest tourism market and for the month of July 2021 reflected 8% of total arrivals and 5% year-to-date of total stay-over arrivals. Since the airline ceased its schedule to Saint Lucia in 2019, discussions have been ongoing to explore a return to the island.
Virgin Atlantic and the Government of Saint Lucia, through the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA), have agreed to the provision of targeted marketing aligned with the airline’s twenty-one-week (21) schedule geared at driving continued demand for airlift from the UK Market.
“We are grateful for the continued support of our airline partners British Airways and TUI, particularly over the past year as we reopened the country. Virgin Atlantic has been a long-term supporter and partner providing connectivity to the UK for many years, so we are delighted to welcome them back. As a new Government, our aim is to increase overall capacity that allows for growth in the tourism sector that will result in increased employment for our people and the distribution of tourism benefits to communities. Therefore the return of the service to Saint Lucia is very encouraging. It bodes well for the continued trajectory of the tourism industry, and the impact on the local economy and livelihoods.” said Honourable Dr. Ernest Hilaire, Saint Lucia’s Tourism Minister.
The new direct service will go on sale from 18th August, 2021, with return Economy flights starting from £462 per person. The airline’s A330-300 aircraft boasts 31 Upper Class, 48 Premium, and 185 Economy Delight, Classic and Light seats.
In welcoming Virgin Atlantic’s winter service, the increased capacity will serve to strengthen arrivals and provide options for visitors and returning nationals including greater connectivity for France and Germany via Heathrow. British Airways and TUI already operate direct services from the UK with British Airways scheduled to increase airlift during the winter with daily flights from November out of London Gatwick.
In creating greater demand for Saint Lucia, the SLTA will continue to welcome journalists and influencers to highlight the destination, experiences and hidden gems. The Government of Saint Lucia recognizes the partnership of the Saint Lucia Hospitality Association (SLHTA) in the dialogue for the return of Virgin Atlantic and will continue to work with the private sector in rebuilding the tourism industry.