Southwest Airlines will start new nonstop service connecting Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) with Juan Santamaría International Airport (SJO) in San José, Costa Rica, beginning March 13, 2027. The airline will operate one flight per week on Saturdays.
The outbound flight departs Austin at 10:25 a.m., arriving in San José at 2:05 p.m. The return flight leaves San José at 3:05 p.m. and lands in Austin at 7:20 p.m. The new route is available now for booking through Southwest Airlines.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport will be the departure point for this route, adding to Southwest’s nearly 50 years of service to the
Texas capital. Juan Santamaría International Airport serves as Costa Rica’s main international gateway, linking travelers to the Central Valley and other key destinations in the country.
The Saturday-only schedule facilitates weeklong vacations by allowing departures and returns on consecutive weekends. This direct flight option will simplify travel arrangements for leisure travelers from Central Texas, offering easy access to Costa Rica’s nature, adventure, wellness, and beach offerings.
This launch reflects Southwest Airlines’ expanding domestic and international service from Austin. It follows the airline’s recent introduction of nonstop flights between Austin and Grand Cayman, reinforcing Austin’s evolving role as an international gateway.
San José provides access to attractions such as Poás Volcano, coffee estates, cloud forests, and mountain retreats near the city. Travelers can also continue to regions like La Fortuna, Manuel Antonio, Monteverde, and the beaches along Guanacaste. Recommended hotels in San José include the historic Gran Hotel Costa Rica, Curio Collection by Hilton near Plaza de la Cultura and the National Theatre; Hotel Grano de Oro, housed in a Victorian mansion off Paseo Colón with a top restaurant; and the resort-style Costa Rica Marriott Hotel Hacienda Belén, located about three miles from Juan Santamaría International Airport at a former coffee
plantation.
Costa Rica is a popular destination for nature, adventure, wellness, and beach tourism. Southwest’s new route enhances connectivity for Central Texas travelers seeking Caribbean and Central American destinations.
Southwest’s route expansion corresponds with Austin’s transition from a primarily technology and business hub to a growing source market for international leisure travel. This new Costa Rica service complements the recently launched nonstop route between Austin and Grand Cayman by Cayman Airways, reflecting increasing demand and Austin’s rising significance as an international air travel center.
