As the Dominican Republic continues to experience record-breaking tourism arrivals this year, one destination is seeing more growth than any other, particularly in new air routes: the capital, Santo Domingo. 

Beyond traditional tourism hubs like Punta Cana and, to a lesser extent, Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic tourism officials have for years had ambitions to turn the capital into a popular tourism destination, and the efforts are working. 

More and more carriers are adding new flights to Santo Domingo, a Caribbean metropolis anchored by one of the most charming, culturally rich destinations in the region: the 500-year-old Colonial Zone. 

Now, Frontier Airlines, which has been adding more routes to Santo Domingo than almost any other carrier, has just launched another one: the first-ever flights between Philadelphia and Santo Domingo.

“Frontier Airline’s expanded service to Santo Domingo is a great addition to PHL’s growing list of non-stop global destinations and it connects two World Heritage cities,” said Atif Saeed, CEO of Philadelphia International Airport. “Local travelers have a new option when looking for a top Caribbean destination to escape the winter cold and it supports the large and growing Dominican population in the Philadelphia region, which recently established a new Consulate General office.”

The new service is operating three times per week, with intro fares starting at $139, according to Frontier. 

“We’re proud to partner with PHL to offer this exclusive nonstop service to a fantastic Caribbean destination known for its extraordinary beaches and vibrant attractions,” said Josh Flyr, vice president, network and operations design, Frontier Airlines. “Frontier is excited to offer those in the greater Philadelphia area convenient and affordable travel to the Dominican capital. Meanwhile, we’re thrilled to continue our overall expansion at PHL with nonstop service to a growing list of attractive destinations.”