Castries, 17 March 2026 – Saint Lucia is making it even easier for UK visitors to escape the winter and experience the island’s warmth, natural beauty and vibrant culture. Starting 25 October 2026, British Airways will operate a daily direct service from London Gatwick (LGW) to Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), adding 51,000 seats for the 2026/2027 winter season.
The service offers later departure times, making connections easier for travellers arriving from across Europe, including France and Germany, where the Saint Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) is stepping up its promotional efforts.
During the summer months, the tagged flights with other Caribbean destinations will return as part of the airline’s seasonal schedule.
Hon. Dr Ernest Hilaire, Minister for Tourism, Commerce, Investment, Creative Industries, Culture and Heritage, remarked: “More direct flights mean more visitors can experience the warmth of our island during the winter season. The confidence airlines continue to show in Saint Lucia, supported by data-driven negotiations, allows us to keep expanding our tourism offerings, enhancing accommodation and elevating the visitor experience. We thank British Airways for this partnership and look forward to welcoming even more UK travellers in the months ahead.”
The SLTA continues to work strategically within the UK market, acknowledging the economic challenges that have affected travel demand, while embracing the additional service as an important pull factor to sustain interest in Saint Lucia and strengthen arrivals from the market.
British Airways has been connecting Saint Lucia and the UK for over 55 years, since its first service on 20 July 1971, offering three levels of service: Club World, World Traveller Plus and World Traveller.
Visitors looking to plan their winter escape are encouraged to visit www.stlucia.org to begin their journey and be inspired by all that Saint Lucia has to offer.
About Saint Lucia: Saint Lucia, the only country in the world named after a woman, is renowned for its stunning natural beauty and vibrant culture. Situated in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, the island is famed for its lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and the iconic Pitons – a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Visitors can explore the island’s rich history and popular festivals, such as the Gros Islet Friday Night Street Party, Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, Lucian Carnival, and Creole Heritage Month. Signature activities include the highly Instagrammed mud baths at Sulphur Springs Park and heritage chocolate making. The island is recognized as the World’s Leading Honeymoon Destination and the Caribbean’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination, and Olympic gold medalist Julien Alfred proudly serves as a Tourism Ambassador. Learn more at www.stlucia.org and follow us on Instagram and Facebook.