Why didn't my flight show up on Google Flights?

Many smaller Caribbean airlines do not integrate their inventory with major search engines. Always search the specific airline's website.

Can I island-hop by ferry instead?

Yes, for islands within the same group (like St. Vincent and the Grenadines or the Virgin Islands), but for longer distances, flights are the only practical option.

Are regional airlines reliable?

Expect delays. Always choose the earliest flight of the day to minimize the impact of rolling delays as the aircraft completes its circuit.

Booking Inter-Island Flights in the Eastern Caribbean

Book regional flights directly through carrier websites like LIAT20, interCaribbean, or Caribbean Airlines, but always build in a 4-hour buffer for your connections. These flights often act like regional buses, frequently making multiple stops, so don't expect a typical point-to-point jet experience.

Identify your primary regional carrier. Don't rely on global aggregators like Expedia or Kayak; they often miss smaller regional carriers. Check the flight schedules for interCaribbean Airways, Caribbean Airlines, and LIAT20 directly on their individual websites.
Understand the 'hop' system. Regional flights frequently stop at two or three islands before reaching your final destination. Check the flight number details to see if it is a direct flight or if it includes 'through stops' where you stay on the plane.
Book at least 6 weeks in advance. Regional routes have small planes (often 30–50 seats). Prices jump significantly within 14 days of travel. Book early to avoid being bumped to the next day’s flight.
Use a separate itinerary for international legs. Never book your international flight (from the US or Europe) on the same ticket as your regional Caribbean flight. If the regional flight is delayed—which is common—you don't want to lose your international connection. Book your regional flight to arrive the day before your long-haul departure.

Why didn't my flight show up on Google Flights?: Many smaller Caribbean airlines do not integrate their inventory with major search engines. Always search the specific airline's website.
Can I island-hop by ferry instead?: Yes, for islands within the same group (like St. Vincent and the Grenadines or the Virgin Islands), but for longer distances, flights are the only practical option.
Are regional airlines reliable?: Expect delays. Always choose the earliest flight of the day to minimize the impact of rolling delays as the aircraft completes its circuit.