Virgin Atlantic will return to Saint Lucia this winter. 

The carrier will operate three flights each week from London Heathrow to Saint Lucia’s Hewanorra International Airport. 

It’s a boost for Saint Lucia, which has counted the United Kingdom as its second-largest tourism market for years. 

Last month, the UK accounted for eight percent of all arrivals, and 5 percent of all stay over arrivals so far this year to Saint Lucia. 

“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,” said new Saint Lucia Tourism Minister Dr Ernest Hilaire. 

Hilaire, who just took office, said Virgin’s return “bodes well for the continued trajectory of the tourism industry, and the impact on the local economy and livelihoods.”

Saint Lucia will operate the service on Airbus A330-300 aircraft with 31 Upper Class, 48 Premium and 185 economy seats. 

— CJ