Avelo Adds First International Flights From Wilmington, North Carolina, to Punta Cana

Updated: June 7, 2026, 11:16pm CDT

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First International Flights From Wilmington
Booking Avelo’s New Flights to Punta Cana
Final Thoughts

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Avelo Airlines is closing 2025 on a strong note by expanding at one of its hubs, Wilmington International Airport (ILM) in North Carolina, with new international service to the Dominican Republic.

“As the first and only airline offering international service from ILM, we are making it more convenient and affordable for our Wilmington-area Customers to enjoy the D.R. and our 15 popular destinations, while making it easier for visitors to experience the best of Coastal North Carolina,” said CEO Andrew Levy.

Here’s what you need to know.

First International Flights From Wilmington

Avelo Airlines officially launched nonstop flights from Wilmington (ILM) to Punta Cana, Dominican Republic (PUJ) on December 24, 2025.

Avelo will fly the route twice a week, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, using its Boeing Next-Generation 737 aircraft.

This is the first international flight from Wilmington, a port city along the East Coast. Interestingly, much had to be done to configure the airport for its first and only international flights.

Avelo 737 800 HVN Taxiing — Image Credit: Alberto Riva

ILM Airport Director Jeff Bourk stated that U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) prepared the airport to handle “scheduled commercial international service” for the first time in ILM’s history.

Avelo has been flying from Wilmington since 2022 and made it a base of operations in April 2025. Today, the airline serves 15 destinations from ILM, including New York/Long Island (ISP), Washington Dulles (IAD), Orlando (MCO), and West Palm Beach (PBI).

Booking Avelo’s New Flights to Punta Cana

Avelo’s new route connecting Wilmington and Punta Cana is now on sale at AveloAir.com.

Today only, the airline is offering a flash sale on round-trip flights between December 28, 2025, and April 21, 2026. We’re seeing round-trip flights on the route for as low as $271 (or $253 with an Avelo Plus membership) when using the promo code FLASH30.

Avelo ILM PUJ — Image Credit: Avelo Airlines

Otherwise, we’re seeing one-way flights on the route starting at around $130. Keep in mind that Avelo is able to offer dirt-cheap flights by passing on ancillary purchases, such as seat selection and baggage, to customers.

Hot Tip:

Looking for a hotel in the Dominican Republic? Check out our guide on the best Punta Cana hotels to book with points for maximum value!

Final Thoughts

Avelo’s new service to Punta Cana is excellent news for ILM customers, who won’t have to connect through a hub like Atlanta (ATL) or Charlotte (CLT), and instead can fly directly. Even better, flights are reasonably priced — and you can save more with Avelo’s 1-day flash sale!