Thursday, May 29, 2025

Arajet is rapidly accelerating its ambitious US expansion by launching new affordable flights connecting Punta Cana, the Dominican Republic’s busiest tourist destination, to Orlando Sanford and Chicago O’Hare airports starting late 2025. These strategically timed routes provide greater accessibility for budget-conscious travelers while reinforcing critical ties between the Caribbean and major US markets, driving tourism growth and strengthening economic and cultural connections across the regions.

Arajet, the Dominican Republic’s pioneering low-cost carrier, is rapidly broadening its footprint in the competitive U.S. market. Following the successful launch of its inaugural service to Miami last month, the airline is set to introduce two additional key destinations in the United States by the end of 2025: Orlando, Florida, and Chicago, Illinois. This strategic expansion highlights Arajet’s ambitious growth plans and strengthens its role as a major link between the Caribbean and the American mainland.

Later this year, Arajet will commence flights between Punta Cana—the Dominican Republic’s busiest tourist hub—and Orlando Sanford International Airport, offering three weekly services. Scheduled to begin on October 26, 2025, the flights will operate on Tuesdays, Fridays, and Sundays, utilizing the airline’s modern Boeing 737 MAX aircraft.

This move marks a significant milestone for Orlando Sanford, which has not hosted scheduled international flights in several years. The return of international service to this airport, situated approximately 25 miles northeast of downtown Orlando, will provide travelers with an additional convenient gateway to Central Florida’s renowned attractions, including Walt Disney World, Universal Studios, and the city’s thriving convention and business sectors.

Arajet’s choice of Orlando Sanford is a strategic one. The airport is popular among low-cost carriers and travelers seeking to avoid the busier Orlando International Airport. By tapping into this underserved market, Arajet is positioned to attract both leisure and budget-conscious passengers looking for affordable air travel options from the Dominican Republic.

In addition to Orlando, Arajet recently announced that it will begin operations between Punta Cana and Chicago O’Hare International Airport starting November 15, 2025. The airline will offer three weekly flights on Mondays, Tuesdays, and Saturdays.

Chicago O’Hare is one of the busiest and most important airports in the United States, serving as a major hub for both domestic and international travel. By adding this route, Arajet gains direct access to the Midwest market, opening up new opportunities for Dominican travelers as well as American tourists seeking Caribbean vacations.

Chicago stands as a crucial market for Arajet’s expansion, offering access not just to the city but also to a wide surrounding region that includes Illinois and its neighboring states. This service will cater to a mix of leisure tourists, business travelers, and the sizable Dominican diaspora in the Chicago metropolitan region.

With the addition of Orlando and Chicago, Arajet will operate flights to six U.S. destinations by late 2025. The airline already serves key cities including Miami, Florida; Newark, New Jersey; Boston, Massachusetts; and San Juan, Puerto Rico.

This growing network underscores Arajet’s commitment to connecting the Dominican Republic with diverse markets across the United States. The carrier’s focus on affordability, convenience, and efficiency positions it well to compete in these vibrant and high-demand routes.

Arajet’s use of the Boeing 737 MAX aircraft is an important element of its operational strategy. The 737 MAX is renowned for its fuel efficiency, lower emissions, and reduced operating costs compared to older generation planes. This allows Arajet to offer competitively priced fares while maintaining a commitment to sustainability.

The modern aircraft also provides passengers with a more comfortable flying experience, including better cabin air quality, improved seating configurations, and enhanced onboard technology.

The Dominican Republic is one of the most popular Caribbean destinations for U.S. travelers, attracting millions annually with its pristine beaches, cultural heritage, and hospitality. Arajet’s expansion into new U.S. markets is expected to further boost tourism by improving access and convenience for travelers.

Furthermore, these new routes support stronger economic and cultural ties between the Dominican Republic and the United States. Easier travel options facilitate business exchanges, family visits, and educational opportunities, benefiting both countries.

As the Caribbean’s first ultra-low-cost carrier, Arajet is redefining air travel in the region. Its aggressive expansion strategy contrasts with the traditional Caribbean carriers that often focus on premium services with higher fare structures.

By offering affordable fares on popular U.S.-Caribbean routes, Arajet is attracting a new segment of travelers, including price-sensitive tourists, students, and expatriates. The airline’s expansion to Orlando and Chicago exemplifies this approach and signals its intention to become the leading low-cost carrier bridging the Caribbean and the U.S.

Arajet’s rapid growth is aligned with the broader resurgence of air travel following the global pandemic. Increasing demand for leisure travel, combined with rising consumer price sensitivity, has created fertile ground for budget airlines to thrive.

Looking ahead, Arajet may continue to expand its network, potentially adding more U.S. cities and exploring new international markets. Its focus on operational efficiency, modern aircraft, and competitive pricing positions it well to capitalize on evolving travel trends.

Arajet is rapidly expanding its US presence by launching affordable flights from the Dominican Republic to Orlando Sanford and Chicago O’Hare, enhancing travel options and strengthening Caribbean-American ties. This move supports tourism growth and economic connections between both regions.

Arajet’s planned launches of Punta Cana to Orlando Sanford and Chicago O’Hare routes represent a significant step in the airline’s U.S. expansion strategy. By reintroducing international service to Orlando Sanford and entering the key Chicago market, Arajet is broadening travel options between the Dominican Republic and the United States.

This development benefits passengers through increased route choices, affordable fares, and convenient schedules, while also contributing positively to tourism growth and economic links between the two countries. With six U.S. destinations on its network by late 2025, Arajet is solidifying its role as a vital low-cost bridge across the Americas.