Puerto Rico Expands Air Connectivity with New Routes to South America

Discover Puerto Rico, the island’s official Destination Marketing Organization (DMO), announced an ambitious plan to expand air connectivity across South America, introducing new direct routes from Bogotá, Lima, and Buenos Aires starting in early 2026. The move aims to strengthen Puerto Rico’s regional tourism presence and attract new Latin American visitors.

The DMO’s executive director, Brad Dean, emphasized that these new connections represent “a natural evolution” of Puerto Rico’s tourism strategy, which seeks to diversify its source markets beyond North America and Europe. “Latin American travelers are increasingly looking for short-haul, culturally rich destinations—and Puerto Rico is perfectly positioned to meet that demand,” Dean said.

The initiative is being carried out in collaboration with JetBlue, Copa Airlines, and Avianca, all of which have expressed interest in operating the new routes. The Puerto Rico Tourism Company and Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport are also participating in the effort, ensuring the necessary logistical and promotional support.

According to local tourism authorities, South American arrivals have grown by 18% in 2025, driven by business events and cultural tourism. Officials expect that number to increase significantly once the new flights are operational.

Beyond air access, Puerto Rico is working to expand Spanish-language services, local tours, and gastronomic experiences designed to appeal to South American travelers. The island’s growing reputation as a safe, vibrant, and easily accessible Caribbean hub is already resonating with regional markets.

The DMO projects that by 2027, Latin American visitors could represent 10% of Puerto Rico’s total arrivals, strengthening its status as one of the Caribbean’s most dynamic and connected destinations.