Southwest Airlines Launches First New Route in Three Years: Nonstop Houston–St. Thomas Flights

Houston travelers, get your passports ready. Starting in early 2026, Southwest Airlines will begin offering nonstop flights from Hobby Airport (HOU) to St. Thomas (STT)  marking the carrier’s first new destination in three years.

A Big Move for Southwest and Hobby Airport

The announcement signals not just a new tropical escape for Houstonians, but also a fresh era for Southwest. For the first time since before the pandemic, the airline is expanding its network with entirely new routes. And St. Thomas is just the beginning — Southwest has confirmed two additional destinations will be revealed later this year.

Hobby Airport is Southwest’s Houston stronghold, serving millions of passengers each year. The addition of nonstop service to St. Thomas makes international leisure travel easier for locals who prefer the convenience of Hobby over a trek to Bush Intercontinental.

For Houston’s growing community of frequent travelers, island lovers, and cruise-goers, the route opens the door to a quicker, more seamless getaway to the U.S. Virgin Islands.

What to Expect in St. Thomas

Known for its turquoise waters, coral reefs, and postcard-perfect beaches, St. Thomas blends relaxation with adventure. Visitors can dive into world-class snorkeling, explore the bustling harbor of Charlotte Amalie, or island-hop by ferry to St. John and beyond.

With Southwest’s competitive fares and free checked bags policy, the new nonstop option is poised to make Caribbean escapes more accessible to Houston families, couples, and solo travelers alike. Southwest hasn’t unveiled where the two additional routes will be headed, but the airline says announcements are coming before the end of 2025. If this first reveal is any indication, Houston travelers can expect more bucket-list destinations just a boarding pass away.

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