Virgin Atlantis is set to launch its first-ever island hopping service in the Caribbean region, in what could be a significant addition to the challenged regional airlift market. 

On June 14, Virgin will allow travelers to “hop” from Barbados to Grenada or St Vincent and the Grenadines, Caribbean Journal has learned. 

“We know that Virgin Atlantic provides the most premium service to the Caribbean and we’re thrilled to be bolstering our offering further. Our new inter-island flying will provide transatlantic customers with increased opportunities to experience the unique characteristics of each island, as well as providing a reliable regional service for our local passengers, with the best customer experience out there.

The new services “are set to provide both international and local customers more opportunities to explore the Caribbean and each island’s unique personality,” the carrier said in a statement. 

“The Caribbean is a hugely important part of our leisure program and is incredibly popular with our Virgin Atlantic Holidays customers. I can’t wait for even more guests to enjoy the stunning beaches, warm climate and welcoming hospitality that the Caribbean is renowned for.”

The flights effectively piggy-back on existing stops for Virgin’s transatlantic flights; travelers of course, can simply book the individual legs as opposed to flying all the way to London or back. 

As frequent travelers to the Caribbean, intra-regional travel is rarely easy, particularly due to the massive taxation imposed on aviation by many countries in the region. 

While the new service won’t exactly provide an alternative to frequent regional carriers, it is a start.

Service between Barbados and St Vincent, for example, is operating on Wednesdays and Sundays. 

Flights between Barbados and Grenada also operate on Wednesdays and Sundays.