Cabo Verde Airlines is poised to restart flights to the United States, with a focus on Providence, Rhode Island. This initiative will restore transatlantic service at Rhode Island T.F. Green International Airport (PVD), linking it with the African country of Cabo Verde. The route will start with a weekly flight from May 4, 2026, and will increase to bi-weekly service from June 5, 2026. The flight itinerary includes a stop from Praia (RAI) to Sal (SID) before arriving in Providence (PVD). The timetable is as follows:
– VR690 leaves Praia at 6:15 AM, reaches Sal at 7:00 AM, then departs Sal at 9:00 AM, arriving in Providence at 1:30 PM.
– VR693 departs Providence at 4:30 PM, arrives in Sal at 2:30 AM, then leaves Sal at 4:00 AM, getting to Praia at 4:45 AM the next day.
The overall journey covers 3,466 miles, with the Boeing 737 MAX 8, equipped with 174 economy seats, handling the route. This aircraft, once operated by South Africa’s Comair, was acquired by Cabo Verde Airlines in 2023. The airline last served this route from 2015 to 2018.
Selecting Providence as a destination is a strategic decision, taking into account the considerable Cabo Verdean community in Rhode Island, catering to individuals visiting friends and family. Moreover, Cabo Verde is gaining popularity as a leisure destination, drawing tourists seeking its resorts and beaches. The route was suspended due to financial challenges and the pandemic, but it now presents competitive prices starting at around $250 one-way.
Iftikhar Ahmad, CEO of the Rhode Island Airport Corporation, emphasizes the significance of this service in connecting families, cultures, and economies. This resumption enriches PVD’s offerings, now featuring 39 destinations. Cabo Verde Airlines’ return to the U.S. after an eight-year absence is a notable event, providing a convenient travel option for both direct travelers and those eager to explore Cabo Verde.