Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, MexicoSouthwest Airlines is launching nonstop weekly service on Saturday, March 10, linking San Diego to Puerto Vallarta, Mexico. The decision was driven by strong interest expressed by its customers, said Southwest officials.

This will be the airline's fifth direct flight to this destination. The airline also provides non-stop service to the Puerto Vallarta International Airport (PVR) from Houston (Hobby), Los Angeles (LAX), Oakland (San Francisco area) and Denver, Colorado.

After debuting its nonstop service to Cabo San Lucas last year, the airline, based in Dallas, Texas, announced that it will increase its network of routes to the main tourist destinations in Mexico, which led to the decision to launch this new weekly flight from San Diego to Puerto Vallarta.

"The international service we are providing has really resonated with our customers, and Cabo was the most popular destination our customers requested, and Puerto Vallarta was next," said Leah Koontz, Vice President Controller for the airline. "The only other air carrier flying nonstop between San Diego and Puerto Vallarta is Alaska Airlines."

The new nonstop flights will operate on Saturdays, departing from San Diego at 7:00 am local time, and arriving in Puerto Vallarta at 11:40 am local time.

Puerto Vallarta Tourism Trust Director Javier Aranda Pedrero said that this new air connection is proof of the great confidence and preference that the California market has for Puerto Vallarta, which is a preferred Mexico beach destination due to its proximity, its authentic Mexican image, its hospitality and the great quality of its tourist services.

The tourism promotion agencies of Puerto Vallarta and the Riviera Nayarit are planning an exciting reception for the arrival of Southwest's first flight from San Diego. Passengers will be welcomed with the traditional water arch christening of the aircraft, Mariachi music and complimentary cocktails.