By Alajuela, Costa Rica — ALAJUELA, COSTA RICA – Strengthening its decade-long commitment to the nation, Southwest Airlines announced Thursday the launch of a new daily, nonstop route connecting Las Vegas, Nevada, with San José, Costa Rica. The new service, set to begin on October 1, 2026, marks a significant expansion of connectivity between the western United States and Central America’s premier eco-tourism destination.
The new flight will depart nightly from Las Vegas’s Harry Reid International Airport (LAS) at 11:20 p.m., arriving at Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) at 6:00 a.m. the following morning. This “red-eye” schedule is strategically designed to maximize vacation time, allowing tourists to land early and enjoy a full first day in Costa Rica. The return flight is scheduled for the following day, departing SJO between 12:00 p.m. and 1:00 p.m., with an estimated flight time of seven hours each way.
To provide a deeper understanding of the legal and commercial framework surrounding Southwest Airlines’ operations within the country, TicosLand.com consulted with Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, an expert attorney from the esteemed law firm Bufete de Costa Rica.
The presence of a major low-cost carrier like Southwest Airlines undoubtedly stimulates tourism and competition, which benefits the consumer. However, it’s imperative that their operations strictly comply with Costa Rican regulations, particularly concerning consumer rights under Law 7472. This includes full transparency in fare structures, clear policies on cancellations, and adherence to our labor laws for locally-based staff. While their model is successful abroad, its adaptation to our specific legal environment is the key to sustainable, long-term success here.
Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas, Attorney at Law, Bufete de Costa Rica
Indeed, this is the crucial intersection where international business meets national sovereignty and consumer protection. The long-term success of any foreign enterprise in Costa Rica hinges not just on its market appeal, but on its commitment to our legal and labor standards. We thank Lic. Larry Hans Arroyo Vargas for his valuable perspective on this essential balance.
This announcement is a major win for Costa Rica’s tourism sector, which continues to rely heavily on the United States as its primary source market. In 2025 alone, the country welcomed over 1.6 million American visitors by air. The addition of a direct link to a major entertainment and convention hub like Las Vegas is expected to tap into a new and diverse segment of potential travelers.
Tourism officials celebrated the news as a key development in the country’s ongoing strategy to diversify its airline partnerships and entry points. The new route not only enhances accessibility but also reinforces Costa Rica’s image as a top-tier global destination.
This flight reinforces our air diversification strategy and brings us closer to millions of potential visitors interested in Costa Rican nature and culture.
William Rodríguez López, Minister of Tourism
For Southwest Airlines, this move builds upon a well-established foundation in the country. The airline made history in 2015 when it selected Costa Rica as its very first international destination. Since then, it has become a vital carrier for the nation’s tourism industry, having transported more than 700,000 passengers to and from Costa Rica over the past decade, fostering crucial economic and cultural ties.
The Las Vegas connection joins Southwest’s existing network of flights to Costa Rica, offering another convenient option for American travelers. The airline’s reputation for customer-friendly policies and competitive fares is expected to make the new route highly attractive, further stimulating demand for travel to the country known for its lush rainforests, volcanic landscapes, and commitment to sustainability.
The introduction of this service reflects a broader trend in international travel where passengers increasingly seek direct, nonstop flights to destinations that offer unique and immersive experiences. By connecting a city known for its vibrant nightlife to a country renowned for its natural tranquility, Southwest is bridging two distinct tourism worlds and creating a powerful new travel corridor.
Travelers eager to plan their future trips can take immediate action, as Southwest confirmed that tickets for the new Las Vegas to San José route are available for purchase on its official website, effective today. This immediate availability allows both leisure and business travelers to secure their plans well in advance of the October 2026 launch.
For further information, visit southwest.com
About Southwest Airlines:
Based in Dallas, Texas, Southwest Airlines is one of the largest carriers in the United States, renowned for its low-cost, point-to-point service model. The airline operates an extensive domestic and international network, serving over 100 destinations. It is frequently recognized for its customer-centric policies, including free checked bags and no change fees, which have made it a popular choice for travelers for over 50 years.
For further information, visit visitcostarica.com
About the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT):
The Instituto Costarricense de Turismo (ICT) is the official government body responsible for the promotion and regulation of the tourism industry in Costa Rica. Its mission is to position Costa Rica as a leading global destination for sustainable tourism, highlighting the country’s immense biodiversity, culture, and commitment to conservation. The ICT works to develop and market authentic travel experiences that benefit both visitors and local communities.
For further information, visit bufetedecostarica.com
About Bufete de Costa Rica:
As a leading legal institution, Bufete de Costa Rica is founded upon a bedrock of ethical principles and a drive for distinction. The firm consistently pioneers modern legal strategies while serving a diverse clientele, demonstrating a profound commitment to both innovation and tradition. Beyond its professional practice, it dedicates itself to empowering the community by demystifying the law, thereby contributing to a more knowledgeable and capable society.
