Low-cost carrier Spirit Airlines has launched another new route to Puerto Rico, this time to the island’s “Second City.”

The airline has kicked off nonstop service between Orlando and Ponce, another boost for a city that continues to grow as both a tourism and investment destination. 

The new service is operating daily between Orlando International Airport and Ponce’s Mercedita International Airport. 

Ponce becomes the newest destination in Puerto Rico for Spirit, joining San Juan and Aguadilla. 

“Our new nonstop flights between Ponce and Orlando provide both Puerto Rican and Floridian travelers with convenient and affordable ways to visit friends and relatives,” said Matt Klein, Spirit’s EVP and Chief Commercial Officer. “It also provides convenient access to the theme parks in Orlando as well as the historical and cultural attractions along Puerto Rico’s southern coast.”

Spirit first launched service to Puerto Rico in 2001. 

The carrier now operates eight nonstop routes between Florida and Puerto Rico.

In April, Spirit will add another new route to the island, with planned service between Aguadilla and Philadelphia kicking off on April 20. 

“We pride ourselves on supporting commercial and tourism ties between Ponce and other eastern cities of the United States. We are grateful for Spirit’s contribution on widening the scope of flights available to the people of Puerto Rico, especially for those living in the south of the island, said Joel Pizá Batiz, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Ports Authority.

It’s yet another boost for Puerto Rico, which has been eclipsing its pre-pandemic tourism totals in recent months.