American Airlines Strengthens Guanacaste’s Connectivity with New Nonstop Flight from Philadelphia
Liberia, Guanacaste, Costa Rica – The Guanacaste DMO is thrilled to announce the arrival of a new nonstop route connecting Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) to Liberia International Airport (LIR) in Guanacaste, Costa Rica.
Operated by American Airlines, this direct connection offers travelers an exciting gateway to Guanacaste’s sun-soaked beaches, lush landscapes, and vibrant culture.
This new flight operates every Saturday until March 30, 2025, aboard a Boeing 737 aircraft. Departing from Philadelphia at 8:25 a.m. (ET) and arriving in Liberia at 12:44 p.m. (CR time), the flight’s convenient schedule ensures a seamless journey to Costa Rica’s Pacific coast.
Travelers returning to Philadelphia can depart Liberia at 1 p.m. (CR time) to arrive at 7 p.m. (ET), making this route perfect for weeklong escapes or extended stays.
Boosting Tourism and Economic Growth
Tourism remains a cornerstone of Costa Rica’s economy, and this flight further underscores Guanacaste’s growing appeal as a premier destination. According to the Costa Rican Tourism Board (ICT), over 1.3 million U.S. travelers visited Costa Rica by air between January and October 2024, solidifying the United States as the leading source market for tourism.
William Rodríguez, Costa Rica’s Minister of Tourism, emphasized the importance of this new route: “The direct connection between Philadelphia and Guanacaste strengthens our air connectivity and reinforces Costa Rica’s position as a world-class destination for U.S. travelers and corporations.”
A Hub of Opportunity at Liberia International Airport
Liberia International Airport, managed by the Vinci Group, continues to expand its network. Currently hosting 13 airlines operating flights to 22 international destinations, LIR serves as a vital hub for tourism in Costa Rica. With American Airlines now offering up to eight daily flights from major U.S. hubs, including Charlotte, Dallas-Fort Worth, New York, Miami, and Chicago, Guanacaste is more accessible than ever.
Rafael Sanchez, American Airlines’ Regional Operations Manager for Central America, expressed pride in the airline’s growing presence: “We are proud to further open the doors of Guanacaste to more travelers from around the world, now connected to our Philadelphia hub.”
Extending the High Season in Guanacaste
Guanacaste Airport General Manager César Jaramillo highlighted the region’s strategic efforts to sustain steady visitor flows throughout the year: “Extending the high season and reducing the low season to just two months allows us to maintain a steady flow of visitors, benefiting both local communities and businesses.”
As the first direct connection between Costa Rica and Philadelphia, this route represents a significant milestone in Guanacaste’s mission to become a global destination for leisure, adventure, and corporate/incentive group travel.
About Guanacaste
Nestled on Costa Rica’s Pacific coast, Guanacaste offers a diverse array of attractions, from pristine beaches and world-class resorts to national parks and cultural heritage sites. With its ‘Pura Vida’ spirit, Guanacaste invites travelers to indulge in relaxation, adventure, and unforgettable experiences.
Further information: www.guanacastedmo.com