Frontier Airlines bails on Orlando to PLS connection; gone too soon

By Shanieka Smith

Staff Writer

#TurksandCaicos, January 19, 2022 – Frontier Airlines is no longer providing service to the Turks and Caicos Islands. The airline suspended services on January 10, which means it has paused on flights between Orlando and  Providenciales International Airport, PLS.

In a TCI Sun newspaper report, Director of Tourism, Pamela Ewing said she is unaware of the airline’s reason behind its suspension. “We are awaiting their response as to why they have taken this action and are happy to update you when we receive same, the Director said.

It has been a short three weeks since Frontier started its service to the TCI, with TCI Tourism officials making the first flight, smiling for cheery photo-ops following a water canon salute to welcome the airline’s inaugural flight.

It was surprising, even disconcerting to hear the Tourist Board Director admit she was unable of the airline’s reason for the sudden stop to the flight.

The Turks and Caicos Islands Airports Authority said Frontier’s load factors were low from the very beginning and that was likely caused by competition from within the Florida market. The surge in omicron cases likely dampened travel interest as well.

TCI Airports Authority said Frontier would consider a return when market conditions improve.