Expanded Connectivity to the 'Nature Island'
United Airlines has announced a significant expansion of its service to Dominica, introducing a new midweek nonstop flight from Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) to Douglas-Charles Airport (DOM). This addition, commencing on October 29, 2025, will double the airline's weekly service to the Eastern Caribbean nation, known as the 'Nature Island.' The new flight complements United's existing Saturday service, which began in February 2025, providing travelers with enhanced options for reaching the picturesque destination.
New Flight Details and Schedule
The newly added flight will operate every Wednesday, offering a convenient travel window for visitors. The outbound flight, UA2849, is scheduled to depart Newark at 8:45 a.m. and arrive in Dominica at 2:17 p.m. local time. The return journey will depart Dominica at 3:45 p.m., landing back in Newark at 7:45 p.m. The approximate flight duration is 4 hours and 30 minutes. United Airlines will utilize its Boeing 737-700 aircraft for this route, which can accommodate up to 126 passengers in a two-class configuration.
Boosting Dominica's Tourism Sector
This expansion is expected to provide a substantial boost to Dominica's growing tourism industry, particularly from the U.S. Northeast market. Hon. Denise Charles-Pemberton, Dominica's Minister of Tourism, emphasized the importance of this development, stating, 'The addition of a second non-stop flight from New York to Dominica opens the door for even more travelers to experience the natural beauty, adventure, and warm hospitality that defines our island.' The increased airlift capacity is anticipated to facilitate shorter, more flexible getaways and attract a wider range of visitors, from adventure seekers to leisure travelers.
Dominica has been actively investing in its tourism infrastructure, including significant renovations and a 6,351-foot runway extension at Douglas-Charles Airport to accommodate larger aircraft. Furthermore, the island is set to debut the world's longest detachable cable car in December 2025, connecting the Roseau Valley to the iconic Boiling Lake, transforming a six-hour hike into an accessible 20-minute rainforest experience.
Increased Flexibility for Travelers
The introduction of the midweek flight offers travelers greater flexibility, allowing for three-day, four-day, or full-week trips, which was previously challenging with only weekend service. This strategic move by United Airlines aligns with Dominica's efforts to enhance its global presence as a premier Caribbean destination, known for its volcanic peaks, lush rainforests, waterfalls, and unique black- and gold-sand beaches. The expanded service is also expected to support the island's expanding hotel and eco-resort sector, leading to more consistent visitor arrivals, especially during peak travel seasons.
5 Comments
Mariposa
More flights mean more carbon emissions. Not good for the planet.
Comandante
While the new midweek flight is a welcome development for accessibility, it's crucial that Dominica maintains its distinct identity as the 'Nature Island' and doesn't become just another mass-market Caribbean destination.
Muchacha
Fantastic! More options to reach the beautiful 'Nature Island'.
Bella Ciao
This expansion offers a fantastic opportunity for Dominica to grow its tourism sector, however, local communities must be genuinely involved to ensure the benefits are widely distributed and not just concentrated in a few hands.
ZmeeLove
More direct flights are convenient for tourists and good for business, yet there's a risk of the island becoming overly commercialized if sustainable tourism practices aren't strictly enforced.