Click the the banner for current deals!
Caribbean-On-Line » Caribbean Travel News » Airlines
| |
JetBlue's new Boston flights
From our friends at DR1:
JetBlue's new Boston flights
JetBlue has announced plans to take off from Boston Logan to Santo Domingo as of 19 June. The airline will run three weekly flights to Boston on Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays. Depending on how the flight goes, the airline could continue it year round. JetBlue feels the route will be especially attractive to Boston airport travelers in the cold winter months, and hopes the flight can be carried out daily in the winter.
JetBlue has also announced Boston to Santiago flights starting 17 June.
KLM to fly to Punta Cana
From our friends at DR1:
KLM to fly to Punta Cana
Dutch airline KLM has announced the start of flights to the Punta Cana International Airport (PUJ) from Amsterdam as of October. The airline says the flight is an alternative for travelers who don't want to fly KLM to the DR via the USA. The new flight will be especially attractive for passengers connecting through the Schiphol International Airport, already a major international hub for connections. The flight will leave Amsterdam at 10am with a stopover in Havana, in time to arrive in Punta Cana at 7:30pm. Return flights will be non-stop to Amsterdam, leaving at 8:30pm and arriving at 10am the following morning.
KLM president and chief executive officer Peter Hartman said "The Dominican Republic is a wonderful holiday destination and is in great demand in the Dutch market. We are looking forward to working with our partners in the travel world to make this destination a success."
JetBlue seeks approval for intra-Caribbean service
From Caribbean360:
NEW YORK, United States, Thursday April 28, 2011 - JetBlue Airways is now seeking government approval to launch an intra-Caribbean service that would compete with regional airline LIAT on its San Juan-St. Maarten route.If it gets the green light, nonstop daily flights will begin on November 17.
The new service will be JetBlue's second intra-Caribbean route, with existing service between San Juan and Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic.
SEABORNE AIRLINES ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH W RETREAT & SPA VIEQUES
Christiansted St. Croix and Vieques, Puerto Rico, March 28th, 2011- Seaborne Airlines and the W Retreat & Spa in Vieques announced their partnership to make traveling to the W Retreat & Spa even more exciting for travelers coming from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. With a 2 night stay booked at the W Retreat & Spa, island hoppers traveling on Seaborne Airlines can receive $50 in resort credit, 25% off in the Away Spa and a gratis breakfast buffet. Additionally, when flying from one of Seaborne's two locations in San Juan, travelers can receive up to $100 in air credit. All perks are redeemable upon presentation of a Seaborne ticket receipt on check out.
The W Retreat & Spa on Vieques is the first Caribbean property of the internationally known W Hotels, and since opening in Spring 2010, has already established itself as a stunning luxury destination on the pristine island of Vieques. Voted Best Caribbean Island by Travel + Leisure in 2008, Vieques was a natural choice for the W Retreat & Spa, with its relaxing and beautiful natural setting, just a short flight from cosmopolitan San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Christiansted St. Croix and Vieques, Puerto Rico, March 28th, 2011- Seaborne Airlines and the W Retreat & Spa in Vieques announced their partnership to make traveling to the W Retreat & Spa even more exciting for travelers coming from Puerto Rico and the Virgin Islands. With a 2 night stay booked at the W Retreat & Spa, island hoppers traveling on Seaborne Airlines can receive $50 in resort credit, 25% off in the Away Spa and a gratis breakfast buffet. Additionally, when flying from one of Seaborne's two locations in San Juan, travelers can receive up to $100 in air credit. All perks are redeemable upon presentation of a Seaborne ticket receipt on check out.
The W Retreat & Spa on Vieques is the first Caribbean property of the internationally known W Hotels, and since opening in Spring 2010, has already established itself as a stunning luxury destination on the pristine island of Vieques. Voted Best Caribbean Island by Travel + Leisure in 2008, Vieques was a natural choice for the W Retreat & Spa, with its relaxing and beautiful natural setting, just a short flight from cosmopolitan San Juan, Puerto Rico.
Continue reading "SEABORNE AIRLINES ANNOUNCES PARTNERSHIP WITH W RETREAT & SPA VIEQUES" »
Air France adds Guadeloupe, Martinique flights
As from 4 November 2011, Air France will operate flights to French Caribbean destinations on departure from Paris-Charles de Gaulle. Flights will be operated by Boeing B777-300 ER with seating for 472 passengers, including 14 in Affaires, 36 in Alize (Premium) and 422 in Voyageur (economy).
Flight times have been adapted to ensure smooth transfers for passengers connecting to and from Air France's main European destinations at Paris-Charles de Gaulle.
"By building on its existing product offer on departure from Paris-Orly to the French Caribbean, Air France is demonstrating, more than any other airline, that it is a major player in the development of Caribbean tourism" said Alain Malka, Senior Vice President, Caribbean & Indian Ocean, Air France KLM.
Christian Mantei, Managing director of Atout France, appointed by the government to prepare the launch of Caribbean services on departure from Paris-Charles de Gaulle, added "Since Air France has officially announced these new frequencies and flight times, they can now be marketed. This is the first step in an upcoming 'destination contract'. The key factor in the success of these new routes will be an undertaking by all professionals involved in the tourism industry to develop the quality of their products and promote these new routes."
Continue reading "Air France adds Guadeloupe, Martinique flights" »
JetBlue signs NextGen agreement with the FAA
Will make flights routes more safe and precise, saving time and fuel, and increasing safety
WASHINGTON - The U.S. Department of Transportation's Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) announced today that the FAA and JetBlue have signed a NextGen agreement that will allow the airline to fly more precise, satellite-based flights from Boston and New York to Florida and the Caribbean beginning in 2012.
NextGen is the transformation of the U.S. national airspace system from a ground-based system of air traffic control to one based on satellites, which will enhance safety and reduce aviation congestion. Today's NextGen announcement follows President Obama's State of the Union Address last week, in which he stressed the importance of targeted investments to foster American innovation that will make our nation more competitive globally and strengthen our economy here at home.
"In his State of the Union address, President Obama called for targeted investments that harness American innovation to strengthen our nation," said U.S. Transportation Secretary Ray LaHood. "NextGen is a critical investment in the future of our transportation system, one that uses the latest technology to transform our airspace to make aviation safer, more efficient and more environmentally friendly."
Continue reading "JetBlue signs NextGen agreement with the FAA" »
KLM Expands Strongly into Caribbean
KLM Royal Dutch Airlines is performing a robust expansion into the Caribbean, offering an additional 2,600 seats each week. The expansion will start when KLM's winter schedule goes into effect on 30 October. On that same date, KLM will introduce direct flights to Quito and Guayaquil in Ecuador.
"For the first time in our history, KLM will make more than a half-million seats available to the Caribbean, annually," said Peter Hartman, KLM's CEO. "By performing this strong capacity expansion, KLM is offering Dutch holiday-makers many more travel possibilities."
Nine times a week, KLM will depart from mainport Schiphol to Curacao, daily to Bonaire, five times weekly to Aruba and three times a week to St Maarten. On Mondays and Saturdays KLM will operate two flights daily to Curacao. The flights to the Caribbean will use Boeing 747-400s and MD-11s.
When the winter schedule goes into effect KLM will also offer a direct connection to Ecuador. KLM will replace the five flights a week to and from Ecuador, which includes a stop in Bonaire, with three direct flights each week to Quito in combination with Guayaquil. The direct connection without a stop in the Caribbean constitutes a major improvement for passengers as it shortens their travel time significantly. At the same time, KLM is reinforcing its position in the Ecuadorian market. The flight to Ecuador will use a Boeing 777-300 on Wednesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Jamaica airports make upgrades
At Travel Weekly Gay Nagle Myers is reporting that "Jamaica's two international airports in Kingston and Montego Bay have completed passenger enhancements." You can read the full story and get all the details here.
Cape Air Adds Twice-Daily Service Between San Juan & Anguilla
With 13 years serving the Caribbean, Cape Air is excited to announce its newest service - twice-daily, year-round flights between San Juan (SJU) and Anguilla (AXA). This new Caribbean route complements Cape Air's existing Caribbean service for San Juan, St. Thomas, St. Croix, Tortola, Vieques, Mayaguez and Ponce. Visit www.CapeAir.com for more info.
CARICOM Airways grounded
CASTRIES, St Lucia, Thursday December 30, 2010 - The Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority (ECCAA) has stopped the St Lucia-registered CARICOM Airways from flying in the Eastern Caribbean until it gets legal.
More here.
SEABORNE AIRLINES ANNOUNCES EXPANSION TO SAN JUAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SJU)
Christiansted, St. Croix - December 15th, 2010--Seaborne Airlines is proud to announce new daily service into San Juan International Airport (SJU) from St. Croix, St. Thomas and Vieques. Flights to San Juan International begin on January 12th, 2011 providing safe, friendly, and convenient "Feel good flying" service for the region's business and leisure travelers.
Seaborne's flight schedule has been designed to provide ample time to make most major airline connections at SJU. Early morning flights leave the Virgin Islands as early as 6:15 am to SJU, and return as late as 6:15 pm, with flights throughout the day, seven days a week.
Continue reading "SEABORNE AIRLINES ANNOUNCES EXPANSION TO SAN JUAN INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT (SJU)" »
Air Jamaica Fare Sale
MIAMI - SEPTEMBER 7, 2010 - Deal hunters will find a lot to celebrate at www.AirJamaica.com, where a 48-hour sale* offers outstanding savings on travel between Jamaica and Fort Lauderdale, New York and Philadelphia, as well as between Grenada and New York. Travel for these sale fares must be completed between September 8 and October 8, 2010 and tickets must be purchased by September 8, 2010.
CAPE AIR TO FLY TO ANGUILLA
From the Anguillian:
Air lift to Anguilla is getting a well-needed boast from Cape Air, one of the largest independent regional airlines in the United States. The Company flies over 610 thousand passengers to destinations around the world including New England, New York, the Caribbean, Florida, the Mid Atlantic, the Mid West and Micronesia.
WestJet flies Toronto to Samana
From DR1:
There will be a non-stop seasonal service between Toronto's Pearson International Airport and Samana this summer. "Samana is the one of the Dominican Republic's best kept secrets and WestJet is excited to bring Canadian travelers to this part of the island," said Hugh Dunleavy, WestJet Executive Vice-President, Strategy and Planning.
"The gorgeous blend of white, sandy coastline and lush rainforests provide ample opportunity to see the local beauty and culture of the Samana area. The popularity of the Dominican Republic is soaring with the addition of destinations to our ever-expanding Caribbean network, in combination with WestJet Vacations' reputation for offering low-cost, high-value vacation packages."
WestJet will fly between Toronto and Samana once weekly until 30 October 20 10. The flight departs Toronto on Saturday at 10am, arriving in Samana at 2:10pm. The return flight leaves at 3pm, arriving in Toronto at 7:05pm.
One-way fares, available in both directions on non-stop flights only, are available from $199 plus applicable taxes and fees.
As part of its 2010 summer schedule, WestJet continues to offer year-round services from Toronto to two other Dominican Republic destinations - Punta Cana and Puerto Plata.
American Eagle adds more Martinique flights
Travel Weekly is reporting:
American Eagle will add a second daily flight from San Juan to Martinique on July 2 that will eliminate a long layover on the southbound leg and an early departure on the return leg.
Direct flights from Scotland to Punta Cana
This is news - from our friends at DR1:
British holiday firm Thomson will offer weekly package tours to Punta Cana from 3 May to the middle of September from Glasgow Airport in Scotland. There already were summer flights to Puerto Plata and winter holiday packages to La Romana. In Scotland, Glasgow competes for the position of Scotland's busiest airport.
Amanda McMillan, managing director of Glasgow Airport, said: "The charter market remains strong at Glasgow and many holidaymakers appear to be returning to the traditional package holiday because of the value for money and the choice of destinations they serve." She added that the addition of the new flight was good news for holidaymakers looking for great value holidays in the sun.
UK passenger tax being scrapped
From Caribbean360.com:
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, Thursday May 13, 2010 - Britain's new coalition government has announced it's getting rid of the controversial Air Passenger Duty (APD). And Caribbean tourism officials are keeping their fingers crossed that the change will be for the better.
The APD is to be replaced with a tax on planes, not passengers, according to agreements made between Conservative Prime Minister David Cameron and his deputy Nick Clegg of the Liberal Democrats.
You would have to think this is a positive, no matter how small.
British Airways starts St. Kitts Service
BASSETERRE, St Kitts, April 1, 2010 - British Airways has officially begun a new mid-week direct service to St Kitts.
And the country's Minister of Tourism and International Transportation, Richard "Ricky" Skerritt has encouraged officials to make sure that it stays.
The new service will add to the current weekly Saturday service which began in January 2009.
More here.
Planned British Airways strike affects Caribbean
From Caribbean360.com:
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, March 18, 2010 - With a planned strike by British Airways (BA) just two days away, the airline has sought to give the assurance that contingency plans have been put in place to prevent disruption in travel to the Caribbean. But already one regional destination has been told it will experience fallout.
Seaborne Airlines Celebrates First Direct Flight to Vieques
The Seaborne Airlines team celebrates the first direct flight from St. Croix to Vieques on the airshuttle with a ribbon cutting ceremony on Thursday, March 18th. Seaborne recently announced direct service to Vieques on the airshuttle from San Juan and St. Croix, and is currently the largest aircraft flying into Vieques. Multiple direct flights are available daily. Special rates are offered through March, you can book online at seaborneairlines.com
American Eagle suspends flights to Governors Harbour Airport
From Caribbean360.com:
ELEUTHERA, Bahamas, March 4, 2010 - American Eagle has suspended flights from Miami International Airport to one of the airports on the Bahamian island of Eleuthera because of recent changes there.
The airline said that it would stop landing at Governors Harbour Airport (GHB) indefinitely, just three months after starting the Miami to GHB non-stop flights.
"Once we receive an update from the government on the GHB airport, we will resume our operations to this airport and advise accordingly," said American Eagle's regional sales manager for the Bahamas and Florida, Tracie Hoo-Glinton in an email sent to the airline's travel partners.
SEABORNE AIRLINES ANNOUNCES NEW SERVICE TO VIEQUES, PUERTO RICO
Christiansted, St. Croix, March 1st, 2010 -- Seaborne Airlines continues to expand their service in the Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico with the announcement of direct flights to their newest exciting destination--Vieques, Puerto Rico. Starting March 18th, the airshuttle service will offer multiple daily supplemental availability flights from San Juan Isla Grande Airport and St. Croix's Henry E. Rohlsen Airport. With up to 6 daily flights available, Vieques is now more accessible than ever, and your travel will be a breeze aboard Seaborne's comfortable and convenient airshuttle. With fares as little as $59.50 each way to Vieques during the month of March, it's never been a better time to take advantage of Seaborne's service and explore the beautiful and alluring Vieques.
Continue reading "SEABORNE AIRLINES ANNOUNCES NEW SERVICE TO VIEQUES, PUERTO RICO" »
BVI Airways to begin service in late February
From Caribbean360:
TORTOLA, British Virgin Islands, February 11, 2010 - Final government approval has been given for a new airline service for the British Virgin Islands (BVI).
The Tortola-based BVAirways Inc. announced this week that it has been given the go ahead to begin scheduled service under the trade name, BVI Airways, out of Tortola's Beef Island Airport and it anticipates doing so in late February.
Delta to offer JFK to Grenada route in 2010
ST GEORGE'S, Grenada, January 20, 2010 - The world's largest airline will begin operations into Grenada this summer.
Tourism and Civil Aviation Minister, Glynis Roberts on Wednesday confirmed that Delta Air Lines will commence scheduled service from John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York to the Maurice Bishop International Airport in St. George's starting from July 3, 2010.
In addressing the 2010 Budget at the Grenada Trade Centre Minister Roberts said that the government will continue its aggressive efforts to expand airlift service to Grenada.
The non-stop service departs JFK at 8:30 a.m. and arrives in Grenada at 1:20 p.m. with the return flight scheduled to depart at 2:10 p.m. and arriving in New York at 7:30 p.m.
Continue reading "Delta to offer JFK to Grenada route in 2010" »
JetBlue says fly now, pay later
Interesting promotion from JetBlue of fly now, pay later - and save more money:
JetBlue Airways expanding service to the Caribbean
BOSTON, United States, December 3, 2009 - American low-cost carrier JetBlue Airways has announced a round of expansions in its service from Logan International Airport in Boston, its focus city, to the Caribbean, beginning in the next six months.
Effective May 3rd, 2010, JetBlue will give a substantial boost to its Caribbean flight schedule, offering Boston travelers 25 percent more departures including an additional weekly flight to San Juan, Puerto Rico and Montego Bay, Jamaica.
"JetBlue is proud to continue our commitment to Boston by adding even more flights between Logan and the Caribbean next spring," said Scott Laurence, JetBlue's vice president of route planning.
"Whether it's summer or winter, JetBlue offers more nonstop flights between Boston and the Caribbean than any other airline. While the other guys continue to cut back on things like routes, service and snacks, JetBlue is pleased to be offering Bostonians more flights and more choice in travel."
Increased flight frequencies will be available on the new Boston-Caribbean routes year-round. JetBlue also offers winter-only nonstop service to Nassau, Bahamas, and to St Maarten in the Netherlands Antilles.
Winair announces closure of Anguilla operation
This certainly can't be good news:
PHILIPSBURG - Regional airline, Windward Islands Airline Winair has announced that it would be terminating the route St. Maarten to Anguilla with effect from December 1, 2009.
According to Vice President of Marketing, Claudio Buncamper, this is as a result of the airline suffering significant looses for the past several months, losses which the airline is unable to continue to sustain.
Don Mitchell has more.
British Airways flies Gatwick to Punta Cana
British Airways prepares for the launch of its new twice-weekly service from Gatwick to Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic from October 26, 2009 reinforcing its position as the airline with more flights to the Caribbean than any other UK carrier.
In addition to the flights to Punta Cana, the airline is also increasing flights to other winter sun hot-spots in the region such as St Lucia (from three to five flights a week), Barbados (from nine to ten) and Port of Spain, Trinidad (from three to five). Overall, BA will now fly 45 times a week to the Caribbean.
Richard Tams, head of sales at British Airways, said; "These new routes and increased frequencies underline our commitment to the Caribbean. It's a popular destination with our customers and it's due to demand that we're increasing the number of flights to the region. We now operate to 13 destinations in the Caribbean - more than any other UK airline."
Holidays in the Dominican Republic mean relaxing on sun-kissed beaches and snorkelling above colourful reefs, strolling along the 16th-century cobblestone streets of the capital in Santo Domingo's Colonial Zone or taking a hiking holiday in the Dominican Republic's forested inland.
British Airways has a wide range of hotels in the Dominican Republic, like the 5* Dreams Palm Beach which is situated in an idyllic location, on a gorgeous beach with luxury accommodation and a fantastic kids Explorer's Club. Alternatively, those looking for pure relaxation, can try the 5* Zoetry Agua Punta Cana, offering complimentary private chauffeured return airport transfers rounding up a holiday in style.
JetBlue takes flight in St Lucia
JetBlue started their new St Lucia flights last week:
CASTRIES, St Lucia, October 29, 2009 - American budget carrier, JetBlue Airways, has expanded its Caribbean presence with a new service to St Lucia.
Nonstop service to St Lucia's Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) from the JetBlue's home at New York's John F Kennedy International Airport (JFK) began this week. The airline will serve the island with nonstop flights every Monday, Thursday and Sunday, operated by its 150-seat Airbus A320 aircraft.
AMERICAN AIRLINES PUTS ST. THOMAS AND ST. CROIX ON SALE
Book by Nov. 3 to Get Great Deals
FORT WORTH, Texas - American Airlines has made it easier than ever to visit the beautiful U.S. Virgin Islands of St. Thomas and St. Croix.
American, a founding member of the oneworld(R) Alliance, has great low fares available for travel through mid December. Tickets must be purchased by Nov. 3, 2009, and travel must be completed by Dec.17, 2009, and are subject to a two-night minimum and 30-day maximum stay. Fares from the U.S. Mainland start as low as $91 and are available Monday through Thursday, both to and from the U.S. Virgin Islands. So, make plans now to visit two of the most beautiful islands in the Caribbean.
Here are some samples of American's great low fares. Fares shown are each way, in U.S. dollars, based on round trip, Economy Class travel, purchased on AA.com.
Between Fare Each Way Based on Round-trip Purchase*
Miami - St. Thomas $91
New York - St. Thomas $118
Boston - St. Thomas $125
New York - St. Croix $177
Chicago - St. Croix $190
San Francisco - St. Thomas $195
Detroit - St. Croix $203
St. Louis - St. Croix $203
Dallas/Fort Worth -- St. Thomas $206
Continue reading "AMERICAN AIRLINES PUTS ST. THOMAS AND ST. CROIX ON SALE" »
Barbados tourism officials hopeful as JetBlue begins daily flights
I hate to rely on "hopeful" - but the economy is really taking a toll on the Caribbean. Any new airlift is always welcome:
BRIDGETOWN, Barbados, October 2, 2009 - American low-cost carrier JetBlue has spread its wings into Barbados, touching down for the first time at the island's Grantley Adams International Airport yesterday, with an all-Barbadian crew on board.
And local officials are hoping the nonstop daily service between New York's John F Kennedy International Airport and Bridgetown will translate into a boost in tourist arrivals from the United States.
"ST. CROIX FANTASTIC FLIGHT" RETURNS
~ Promotion represents continued commitment to St. Croix air service ~
St. Croix, U.S. Virgin Islands, August 31, 2009 - The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism has announced the return of its St. Croix Fantastic Flight promotion to entice potential visitors to St. Croix over the coming months.
Visitors who book between September 1 and October 5, 2009 for travel to St. Croix between September 1 and November 15, 2009 will receive a $150 per-person airfare credit and a fourth night free at participating hotels.
The new offer is a key element in the Department's strategy to ensure continued air service to St. Croix, and will leverage recent commitments for increased air service to the island this fall.
JetBlue planning Jamaica routes
From Caribbean360:
NEW YORK, United States, August 27, 2009 - Two American low-cost carriers are battling for a share of the Caribbean market, and Jamaica in particular.
JetBlue Airways, which already has a foot hold in the region with up to 71 daily flights to Caribbean destinations, and AirTran Airways both made requests on Tuesday to begin new services in Jamaica.
JetBlue said it had applied for authority from the island's government to begin offering two new routes linking Montego Bay to its expanding focus cities in Boston and Orlando, Florida, starting from the coming winter season.
"Jamaica and JetBlue is truly a match made in heaven - or paradise, as it were," said Scott Laurence, JetBlue's vice president of route planning. "We're thrilled to add to our island service with new flights from Boston and Orlando, where our ongoing international expansion has been a true success story."
US Airways to fly non-stop Boston to St. Thomas
Weekly flights from Boston to St. Thomas to commence in December
ST. THOMAS, U.S. Virgin Islands, August 26, 2009 - The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism has received commitments from US Airways for new, weekly non-stop service from Boston's Logan International Airport to St. Thomas' Cyril E. King Airport. The service represents a new route for the carrier, which will operate on Saturdays beginning December 19, 2009 through April 23, 2010 using the A319 aircraft. The flights are now available for sale at USAirways.com and all other US Airways ticketing outlets.
Continue reading "US Airways to fly non-stop Boston to St. Thomas" »
JetBlue Caribbean Sale
JetBlue has just started a huge Caribbean fare sale. Click the ad for details.
US Airways to launch Phoenix-Jamaica flight
Travel Weekly is reporting:
Travelers from the West headed to Jamaica will catch a big break this winter, thanks to US Airways' new seasonal service from Phoenix to Montego Bay.
The flight, which runs from Dec. 18 through April 12, operates Fridays through Mondays from Phoenix, departing at 10 a.m. and arriving in Jamaica at 4:53 p.m.
From Jamaica, the flight operates Thursdays through Sundays, departing at 12:25 p.m. and arriving at 4:09 p.m. arrival in Phoenix.
Pretty animated in the comments section on this flight :)
US Airways adding Barbados flights in the fall
From Philly.com:
US Airways says it will begin adding flights to Barbados from Philadelphia International Airport, beginning Oct. 1.
Philadelphia's dominant carrier said it would begin with four flights a week there (Tuesday, Thursday, Saturday and Sunday), then offer daily flights for the winter season, beginning Dec. 19.
The airline said that, once this service was started, it would offer an average of 109 weekly nonstop flights to 14 Caribbean destinations during the peak season to travel there.
Air Jamaica sold?
This story broke on the 4th of July and slipped under my radar:
The Gleaner has learnt that Indigo Partners and Oaktree Capital, who are reportedly the owners of Spirit Airlines
, have bought the country's national carrier, Air Jamaica.
It is further understood that Air Jamaica's name might be changed to Spirit of Jamaica.
Sources close to the negotiations are tight-lipped, but they have confirmed that Trinidadian-owned Caribbean Airlines did not win the bid to take over the Jamaican airline.
The news comes days after the Privatisation committee, which has been managing the task of privatising Air Jamaica, submitted its recommendation to Senator Don Wehby, minister without portfolio in the Ministry of Finance.
More from the Jamaica Gleaner.
New Caribbean Air Routes
An article in USAToday points out several new routes to the Caribbean, including the DR, St. Lucia, and Barbados:
Cheap flights to the Dominican Republic won't be hard to find this summer thanks to ultra-low-cost carrier Spirit. The airline has recently resumed its service between its Ft. Lauderdale hub and Punta Cana, Dominican Republic, available through September 8. Meanwhile, Spirit's new service to Santiago from Ft. Lauderdale begins June 20.
USVI ANNOUNCES INCREASED FLIGHT SERVICE FROM AMERICAN AIRLINES AND DELTA AIR LINES
~ Additional non-stop service to St. Thomas and St. Croix will arrive later this year~
St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands, June 16, 2009 - The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism today announced that American Airlines and Delta Air Lines will increase non-stop service to St. Croix's Henry E. Rohlsen Airport and St. Thomas' Cyril E. King Airport.
This week, American Airlines shared plans to increase service to St. Croix, which will provide 10 flights departing weekly from Miami (up from seven flights weekly). Earlier this month, Delta Air Lines also announced an increase in service from two flights per week to daily service to St. Croix from Atlanta to commence on December 19, 2009.
DR Airline News
Our friends at DR1 have some airlines news for the Dominican Republic:
Continental new flights
Laura Mallen, general manager of Continental Airline in the DR, announced an increase in the airline's summer flights. There will now be two daily flights departing Las Americas International Airport. A first flight leaves at 12:10pm, arriving Newark in New Jersey at 16:15pm, and a second at 6:38pm, arriving Newark at 10:43pm.
Likewise, for summer there are now two daily flights to Punta Cana-Newark route, five days a week. Service to Puerto Plata is maintained. Continental has been flying to the DR for 20 years now, having started service in 1989.
Spirit begins flight to Santiago
Manuel Jaquez, Spirit Airlines Latin American director, is betting on becoming the preferred choice for connecting with Central America, Colombia, Peru and South America for those living in Santiago and the central Cibao area of the DR. Spirit recently began flights on the Santiago-Fort Lauderdale route, departing the Cibao International Airport in Santiago (STI) three times a week with very competitive fares. Alfredo Gonzalez, vice president, tourism and international business of the Convention and Visitors Bureau of Fort Lauderdale traveled to Santiago to promote Fort Lauderdale to the Cibao travelers.
Montserrat airline plans June launch
From Travel Weekly, who are particular about what you post from their site:
Fly Montserrat, a new carrier based on Montserrat, will launch service June 1.
JetBlue announce new St. Lucia flights
NEW YORK, April 29 -- JetBlue Airways plans to further develop its growing international route network this fall with new service to the Caribbean island of Saint Lucia, subject to receipt of government operating authority. Award-winning JetBlue intends to serve Saint Lucia's Hewanorra International Airport with flights to/from its home at New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport. From JFK, JetBlue plans to offer onward connections to/from other U.S. cities. Flights are expected to go on sale in June.
Air Jamaica returns to Barbados for summer
From Caribbean360.com:
KINGSTON, Jamaica, April 27, 2009 - A week after cutting Barbados from its itinerary, Air Jamaica has announced a resumption of services for the summer months.
It will operate a twice weekly service between New York and the Caribbean island from July 2nd to August 20th.
The airline, which suspended its Barbados service on April 20th, said the decision was taken "in response to expected demand by Barbadian nationals in the tri-state area travelling home for the summer".
With JetBlue recently announcing service also it seems the battle for Barbados is on!
JetBlue Airways to offer Barbados - New York Flights
-- Daily flights proposed to begin in October --
NEW YORK, April 23, 2009 -- JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq: JBLU) today announces plans to continue its successful international expansion with new service this fall to the Caribbean island of Barbados, subject to receipt of government operating authority. JetBlue intends to begin daily nonstop flights year-round between Grantley Adams International Airport in Bridgetown and New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport -- where connections to cities across the United States are available -- on Oct. 1, 2009. Flights are expected to go on sale in June at www.jetblue.com.
Continue reading "JetBlue Airways to offer Barbados - New York Flights" »
American Eagle adds over 100 flights from San Juan
Travel Weekly is reporting the news:
American Eagle will add 109 weekly flights from San Juan to eight Caribbean destinations on May 1. The flights will be in effect through Labor Day.
Part of this is really just bringing back services that were previously cut - not brand new routes.
Cheap Caribbean offering deep discounts
Cheap Caribbean is offering Hot Deals this winter to many top Caribbean destinations. Check out their deals page
for up to the minute offers on all your favorite Caribbean islands.
Air Jamaica cuts routes
From the Jamaica Gleaner - Air Jamaica is cutting routes:
Effective February 26, Air Jamaica will exit its Atlanta, Los Angeles, Miami and Grand Cayman routes, taking the jobs of an estimated 600 staff members in the process.
The national carrier will also discontinue service between Jamaica and Barbados and Jamaica and Grenada, President and CEO Bruce Nobles said in a three-page letter to staff, outlining the airline's cost-cutting business plan aimed at quickly stemming the substantial cash losses at the company and positioning the airline on a path to profitability
Spirit Airlines flights on sale from Ft. Lauderdale to St. Thomas for $13 each way
Until tomorrow, January 21, at midnight, Spirit Airlines is offering Ft. Lauderdale travelers special rates to and from the USVI on select dates. Travel details are below, and can be booked on Spirit's Web site: http://www.spiritair.com/. Click on the "Cheapano Fibonacci" graphic advertising $1 fares for travel details.
SPIRIT AIRLINES FLIGHTS ON SALE FROM FT. LAUDERDALE TO USVI FOR $13 EACH WAY*
Ft. Lauderdale to St. Thomas, USVI
$13 each way, for $9 Fare Club Members*, $22 each way for all non members for flights booked by tomorrow at midnight for travel on February 18, 20, 22, 23, 26, 27.
St. Thomas to Ft. Lauderdale
$13 each way, for $9 Fare Club Members*, $22 each way for all non members for flights booked by tomorrow at midnight for travel on February 15, 22, 23, 25, 26, 27.
*Please note that seats are limited and must be booked by tomorrow night, January 21, at midnight. The $13 fares are for "$9 Fare Club Members" only. For an annual fee of $39.95, Spirit $9 Fare Club Members receive $9 discounts, each way, for all flights.
Cayman Islands new airport fee
This story is not making people happy:
The Cayman Islands Airports Authority is reminding passengers that a new fee of CI$13 will be added to tickets purchased for all outward bound international passengers from the Cayman Islands.
This applies to all passengers flying out of Owen Roberts International Airport and the General Aviation Terminal (Grand Cayman) and Gerrard-Smith International Airport (Cayman Brac) effective 1 January, 2009.
A press release noted that the new fee, called the "Passenger Facilities Charge", will be added to tickets purchased for all outward bound international passengers, excluding crew and children under two years of age.
JetBlue to Add Two New International Routes from Fort Lauderdale
- Cancun and Santo Domingo routes planned for 2009 -
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Dec. 2 /PRNewswire-FirstCall/ -- JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq: JBLU) today announces plans to further expand its South Florida focus city at Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport with two new international routes. The airline, best known for its award-winning in-flight experience and its commitment to customer service, intends to commence daily nonstop service from Fort Lauderdale to Santo Domingo, Dominican Republic, and to Cancun, Mexico, in May 2009, subject to receipt of government operating authority.
Continue reading "JetBlue to Add Two New International Routes from Fort Lauderdale" »
CAPE AIR INCREASES CARIBBEAN FLIGHT SCHEDULE
More flights into the U.S. and British Virgin Islands then any Other Airline
November 25, 2008 Hyannis, MA - "This winter season no one gets you to your vacation destination in the Virgin Islands faster and more conveniently then Cape Air," says airline founder and CEO Dan Wolf. "We are meeting the unprecedented demand for service by sending additional planes to the Caribbean giving us a total of 25 aircraft available to meet the hourly schedule of flights between San Juan and not only the US and British Virgin Islands but also Vieques, Cape Air's newest island destination."
For over a decade Cape Air, the largest independent regional airline in the United States, has been providing service between San Juan and the Virgin Islands. Wolf says this year the advance bookings have dramatically increased in response to a major reduction in service from the major carriers who used to fly to the Islands. "We expect to fly about 1,000 passengers daily between the islands this upcoming season, up about 70% from last year." says Wolf. "In addition to the hourly service, passengers can also enjoy the seamless convenience of our ticket and baggage agreements with most major airlines including our code share partner Continental Airlines. Check your bags at your departure and find them waiting for you at your island destination."
You can book Cape Air flights directly from Caribbean-On-Line starting on our Caribbean Airlines page, at www.flycapeair.com, or by calling Cape Air's reservations department at 800 352-0714.
AMERICAN AIRLINES' DAILY SERVICE TO ST. KITTS BEGINS
Basseterre, St. Kitts (November 4, 2008) - Marking a significant step forward for St. Kitts' growing tourism industry, the island has just welcomed the first of American Airlines' daily flights to St. Kitts from Miami yesterday, November 3, 2008. News of this service increase was announced earlier this year on the heels of various domestic and international route cuts made by US-based airlines.
These newly launched daily flights continue a series of recent service increases to St. Kitts by American Airlines. American Airlines first started a Miami service to St. Kitts in December 2004 with three flights weekly, which grew to five flights in 2006. In addition, American Airlines commenced a twice weekly service from JFK to St. Kitts in November 2007, just one year ago.
Continue reading "AMERICAN AIRLINES' DAILY SERVICE TO ST. KITTS BEGINS" »
AIR JAMAICA OFFERS PASSENGERS PHENOMENAL SAVINGS FOR ONLINE BOOKINGS TO BARBADOS
Miami, FL - November 10, 2008 - Passengers flying on Air Jamaica from Baltimore, New York or Fort Lauderdale to Barbados can save up to fifty percent when booking online. These fantastic fares are valid for travel through December 15, 2008, but must be booked by November 20, 2008.
"We want to pass on great savings to our customers and help them de-stress before the holidays," says George deMercado, Air Jamaica's Senior Sales Executive. "Passengers will be able to experience our legendary Lovebird Hospitality and complimentary champagne flights without breaking the bank."
These special fares are available for a limited period so customers are encouraged to act quickly to enjoy these unbelievable deals. Sale fare prices are valid for purchases online at www.airjamaica.com only. Passengers taking advantage of these great deals must book by November 20, 2008 and complete travel by December 15, 2008. The fares are roundtrip and government taxes and fees are additional. Conditions regarding advance booking, cancellations and other changes apply.
New York to Barbados US $279 roundtrip
Baltimore to Barbados US $279 roundtrip
Fort Lauderdale to Barbados US $229 roundtrip
When booking these special fares, travelers must enter Coupon Number: EGEVPGF and Promotion Code: BGI08.
For further information or reservations, visit Air Jamaica's website at www.airjamaica.com.
JetBlue Adds Boston to St. Maarten Nonstop Flights
Aruba and Cancun Routes Expand to Daily Service
Now Offering 28 Destinations From Boston
BOSTON, Oct. 16, 2008 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- JetBlue Airways (Nasdaq:JBLU), already the airline with the most nonstop destinations from Boston, today announces plans to introduce even more Caribbean service from Logan International Airport this winter.
Beginning February 14, 2009, JetBlue will offer nonstop service from Boston to St. Maarten in the Netherlands Antilles, subject to foreign government approval. Service will operate on Saturdays, complementing JetBlue's existing daily flights to St. Maarten via New York.
Continue reading "JetBlue Adds Boston to St. Maarten Nonstop Flights" »
U.S.V.I. ANNOUNCES SAME DAY SERVICE FROM DENMARK ON DELTA
Some good news from the U.S. Virgin Islands today:
New flight time allows for seamless connection from Copenhagen to St. Thomas via Atlanta
ST. THOMAS, U.S. VIRGIN ISLANDS, September 23, 2008 - The U.S. Virgin Islands Department of Tourism is pleased to announce same-day flight connections from Copenhagen, Denmark to St. Thomas, USVI on Delta Air Lines.
Following months of ongoing dialogue between the Department of Tourism and Delta, the airline will adjust the departure time for its new Atlanta/St. Thomas service to allow passengers to/from Copenhagen to make a same-day connection with the Territory. The connecting service will be offered four days per week via Atlanta, Georgia beginning December 20, 2008. Delta has indicated that the updated schedule will be reflected in the airline's timetable issued later this month.
Continue reading "U.S.V.I. ANNOUNCES SAME DAY SERVICE FROM DENMARK ON DELTA" »
JetBlue to begin Caribbean service from Fort Lauderdale
FORT LAUDERDALE, Fla., Sep 17, 2008 (GlobeNewswire) -- Customer-friendly JetBlue Airways today announces plans to grow its focus city at Fort Lauderdale Hollywood International Airport this winter with double daily service to San Juan, Puerto Rico. One daily flight begins Dec. 18, 2008 while a second daily flight will be added Jan. 6, 2009.
Continue reading "JetBlue to begin Caribbean service from Fort Lauderdale" »
