Warwick, RI – April 22, 2026 – Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) will
welcome the launch of new international service from TACV Cabo Verde Airlines, who
previously served this destination, beginning May 4, 2026, establishing a direct air link between
Providence and Praia, Cabo Verde. The weekly service marks a major milestone for the region,
strengthening longstanding cultural, economic, and family ties between Rhode Island and the
Cabo Verdean community.
This year-round flight will operate using a Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft configured with 174
economy seats and will connect Praia (RAI) to PVD. Initial operations will include a Monday
afternoon arrival in Providence with an immediate return flight to Cabo Verde. This is a return of
this service as TACV previously served PVD from June 2015 through January 2018.
“The return of this service is a meaningful addition to PVD’s non-stop portfolio, which is now at
39 destinations,” said Iftikhar Ahmad, President and CEO of the Rhode Island Airport
Corporation. “Rhode Island has one of the strongest Cabo Verdean communities in the United
States, and this service creates a direct, convenient connection between families, cultures, and
economies. We are proud to partner with TACV Cabo Verde Airlines to bring this longanticipated route to fruition.”
“This milestone expands convenient international travel, drawing more visitors to the Ocean
State and helping us build on our record-breaking tourism numbers,” said Governor Dan McKee.
“That’s why we’ve made strong investments in destination marketing, to reach new audiences
and ensure Rhode Island remains a destination for travelers from around the world.”
City of Pawtucket Mayor Don Grebien stated: “As Mayor of Pawtucket, I am thrilled to welcome
this new direct international service between Providence and Praia. Our city is home to a vibrant
and proud Cape Verdean community, and this connection will make it easier than ever for
families to stay close, for traditions to be shared, and for cultural ties to grow even stronger.
Having traveled to Cabo Verde myself on several occasions, I have experienced firsthand the
deep sense of community, history, and warmth that defines the islands. This new route is more
than just a flight; it is a bridge between our people, our cultures, and our shared future.”
“Cabo Verde is already deeply intertwined culturally and economically with Rhode Island; now
it’s also just one flight away,” said Sen. Robert Britto (D-Dist. 18, East Providence, Pawtucket),
who chairs the Senate Committee on Commerce. “This is a wonderful addition for both our
vibrant Cabo Verdean community and Rhode Islanders who have yet to experience the beauty
and culture of Cabo Verde, and further underscores T.F. Green’s status as one of the nation’s top
performing and fastest growing airports.”
“Today’s announcement of direct flights from Rhode Island to Cape Verde is a long-awaited
milestone and a major win for our Cape Verdean community. It strengthens connections for
families with deep roots in the islands while opening the door for all Rhode Islanders to
experience Cape Verde’s rich culture, history, and hospitality,” East Providence Mayor Bob
DaSilva said. “Whether you share that heritage or are discovering it for the first time, this new
route makes it easier than ever to connect with the beauty and spirit of the Cape Verde Islands.
This is a proud moment for our state and a powerful reflection of our diverse community,”
DaSilva added.
“We appreciate TACV Cabo Verde Airlines launching service to Rhode Island T.F. Green
International Airport. The announcement links the strong and vibrant cultures of two
communities in a meaningful way,” stated Jonathan N. Savage, RIAC’s board chairman. “We
encourage all Rhode Islanders to visit this unique and special international destination.”
The new service is designed primarily to support visiting friends and relatives travelling between
Rhode Island and Cabo Verde, while also opening the door to broader leisure and tourism
opportunities. Cabo Verde’s Island destinations, particularly Sal, continue to grow as
international vacation markets known for resort accommodations, beaches, and competitive
travel packages.
TACV Cabo Verde Airlines has all necessary approvals from our federal regulators and has
secured local service providers, including ground handling and catering.
The airline is also evaluating the addition of a second weekly frequency later in 2026, which
would further expand access for both leisure travelers and the Cabo Verdean community and
position PVD as a key U.S. gateway to the archipelago.
Additional schedule details and booking information will be released by TACV Cabo Verde
Airlines in the coming weeks as the inaugural flight approaches.
About Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport: A convenient and low-cost gateway to
New England, Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport (PVD) is located just outside
Providence and offers easy access for travelers from throughout Rhode Island, Massachusetts,
and eastern Connecticut. Known for its efficiency, PVD continues to grow, offering passengers
affordable parking, shorter security lines, and increasing flight options. Rhode Island T. F. Green
International Airport is frequently named as one of USA TODAY’s “Readers’ Choice Best Small
Airports” and has earned further distinction as a #1 airport in Travel + Leisure’s “World’s Best
Awards.” Rhode Island T. F. Green International Airport was also named one of the Top 3
Airports in the U.S. and Top Ten in the world by the Condé Nast Traveller Readers’ Choice
Awards for 2023. More information is available at https://flyri.com. Visit https://flyri.com/ for
more information.
