United Airlines Will Launch Houston to Santo Domingo Route
The carrier will operate three flights per week between the cities from December 18, 2026, through January 3, 2027.
Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Air Travel
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United Airlines is set to begin a seasonal air service connecting George Bush Intercontinental Airport in Houston to Las Américas International Airport in the Dominican Republic. Flights will run three times weekly from December 18, 2026, to January 3, 2027, utilizing a Boeing 737 MAX 8.
Why it matters
The new route aims to accommodate rising travel demand during the peak year-end holiday season. It provides a direct connection for travelers between the two major hubs during the busiest time of the year for international air transit.
The flight service operates between Houston and Santo Domingo with three weekly rotations. Passengers arriving internationally can access a free 24-hour eSIM to assist with local connectivity.
The players
United Airlines
A major American air carrier that provides domestic and international flight services.
Aerodom
The private company that holds the concession for operating Las Américas International Airport.
The details
Aerodom is currently developing a new passenger terminal at Las Américas International Airport at a cost of 24 billion Dominican pesos. In preparation for holiday traffic, the airport also launched a partial automated baggage system in June 2026.
Timeline
June 2026: Partial automated baggage system operations began.
18 December 2026: The United flight service commences.
31 December 2026: The passport entry waiver for US tourists is scheduled to expire.
3 January 2027: The seasonal flight service concludes.
Travel Outlook
This route extension follows seasonal tourism cycles that see significant traffic increases between the US and the Caribbean during the winter months. It aligns with broader investments in aviation infrastructure, including the 24 billion peso expansion at Las Américas International Airport.
Travelers must complete an eTicket for entry and exit to the Dominican Republic. Those planning to visit should also note that the current passport entry waiver for US tourists is set to expire on December 31, 2026.
The takeaway
Travelers should verify their passport status before year-end as the entry waiver concludes on December 31. Booking early for this limited seasonal window is recommended due to the high volume of holiday travel.
Further reading
For more information on international transit requirements, visit the Air Travel section.
More information
To comply with entry requirements, all passengers must register via the General Directorate of Migration eTicket portal.
Source note: This article includes information reported by The Rio Times.
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