Punta Cana, Dominican Republic — Arajet, the flagship airline of the Dominican Republic, has announced a new direct air route between Chicago and Punta Cana, reinforcing the country’s aviation strategy to deepen connectivity with the United States.
The official launch was presented by Arajet CEO and founder Víctor Pacheco alongside the Dominican Minister of Tourism, David Collado, during a special event in Chicago attended by more than 200 travel agents and tour operators.
“Fly Chicago” Promotion
As part of the new route unveiling, Arajet introduced its “Fly Chicago” promotional campaign, offering travelers up to 50% off base fares when booking between August 27 and 31, 2025, using the code FLYCHICAGO.
This discount applies to travel in Smart, Comfort, or Extra cabins on flights scheduled between November 15, 2025, and March 18, 2026.
Flight Schedule & Capacity
Arajet’s inaugural Chicago–Punta Cana flight will depart on November 15, 2025, operating with three weekly frequencies:
- From Punta Cana (PUJ): Tuesdays, Saturdays, and Sundays
- From Chicago O’Hare (ORD): Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays
The airline estimates the route will provide over 2,200 weekly seats, consolidating Chicago as a strategic hub for Dominican tourism thanks to its diverse population and appeal for both leisure and business travel.
Industry Impact
During the roadshow in Chicago, Arajet and the Ministry of Tourism emphasized that the new route will not only expand travel options but also strengthen tourism flows, cultural exchange, and economic growth between the Dominican Republic and the U.S. Midwest.
Exclusive benefits were also presented to local tour operators and travel agencies to incentivize package sales to Punta Cana and other Dominican destinations.
Official Statements
“At Arajet, we remain committed to expanding connections between the Dominican Republic and the United States at affordable fares,” said Víctor Pacheco Méndez, CEO and founder of Arajet. “Chicago is a key city for both tourism and business travel, and this new route will reinforce ties between our nations.”
Market Importance
According to Dominican Ministry of Tourism data, the United States remains the country’s top source market for visitors. In 2024 alone, more than 138,000 travelers came from Chicago, highlighting the city’s growing importance.
Arajet’s Regional Leadership
Since its launch in 2022, Arajet has quickly positioned itself as a regional low-cost leader, operating a modern fleet of Boeing 737 MAX aircraft. Recognized in the 2023 World Aviation Summit as the “Best New Airline in the World,” the carrier connects Santo Domingo and Punta Cana with multiple destinations across North, Central, and South America, along with the Caribbean.
With this new route, Arajet continues to expand its footprint while making Dominican destinations more accessible to international travelers.
