Punta Cana — Arajet has inaugurated a new direct air link between Punta Cana International Airport and Chicago O’Hare International Airport, expanding its U.S. footprint to five destinations and reinforcing the Dominican Republic’s role as a leading aviation hub in the Caribbean.
The carrier will operate the route three times per week — Mondays, Tuesdays and Saturdays — providing more than 2,200 seats each week for travelers flying between the two cities for tourism, family visits, or business. The schedule aims to serve both leisure demand and the significant Dominican community living in Illinois.
Route strategy and network connections
Arajet plans to use Chicago O’Hare not only as a point-to-point market but as a strategic gateway within its growing network. Passengers flying to Punta Cana will gain easier connections to several of Arajet’s international routes, including Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mexico City, Cancún, Kingston and Lima, increasing the airline’s cross-continental connectivity.
Company perspective
Manuel Luna, Arajet’s Head of Communications and Public Affairs, described the new service to Chicago as an important milestone in the carrier’s U.S. expansion. Operating at one of the world’s busiest airports gives travelers a more affordable, direct option and strengthens ties between the Dominican Republic and Midwest U.S. communities.
Market demand and tourism impact
The decision to add Chicago follows the Dominican Republic’s tourism authorities identifying the city as a key market. In 2024, more than 138,000 visitors from Chicago traveled to the Dominican Republic — a figure that underscores steady demand from both U.S. tourists and Dominican expatriates in the region.
Quick facts
- Route: Punta Cana (PUJ) — Chicago O’Hare (ORD)
- Frequency: 3x weekly (Mon, Tue, Sat)
- Weekly seat capacity: 2,200+
- Arajet U.S. destinations: now five cities
- Network connections: Buenos Aires, Córdoba, Mexico City, Cancún, Kingston, Lima
Why it matters for Punta Cana
This new service is expected to increase direct arrivals to Punta Cana, support local tourism businesses, and offer more flight options for residents and visitors. Increased connectivity with major U.S. hubs typically boosts hotel bookings, excursions, and longer-stay tourism — all positive signals for the region’s travel economy.
For travellers and industry observers, Arajet’s Chicago route is another sign of accelerating air connectivity to the Dominican Republic and a practical improvement for anyone seeking direct, competitively priced travel between the Midwest and the Caribbean.
