Caribbean News
JAMAICA: 15 American Airlines Flights Every Saturday
Montego Bay, November 25, 2019 – Jamaica – Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says American Airlines will be sending 15 flights into Montego Bay every Saturday, starting December. He said the move represents a record for any single carrier and will ensure that Jamaica’s tourism continues to soar, “moving us closer to achieving the target of five million visitors by 2021”.
Minister Bartlett, who was speaking to JIS News following a welcome reception for the resumption of American Airlines’ daily service from New York’s John F Kennedy (JFK) Airport to Montego Bay, on Thursday (November 21), said the development is a strengthening of the relationship between Jamaica and one of America’s most prestigious airline carriers.
He noted that American Airlines offers its 200 million customers 6,800 daily flights to more than 365 destinations in 61 countries per year, from its hubs in Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas-Fort Worth, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Phoenix and Washington DC.
“I’d like to say how pleased we are to have American Airlines as a tourism partner as we seek to grow Jamaica’s tourism. Based on the airline’s track record of growth and performance, we’re confident that we can look forward to a sustained and mutually beneficial partnership,” he said.
Mr. Bartlett said he will be having dialogue with the airport management on how to manage the expected boom in arrivals.
“Weekends are very strong for Jamaica. We are going to be challenged because that level of rotation from a singular carrier is going to tax the capacity here, so we are going to have to look at how we have to improve and expand and to create a greater level of seamlessness in our operations,” he pointed out.
Meanwhile, Minister Bartlett noted that while the United States remains Jamaica’s primary source market, representing more than 60 per cent of visitor arrivals to the island, the Ministry will be seeking other markets.
“It is always important to spread our wings and improve on our arrivals. With an aggressive mindset, we are marketing to Europe, Asia and the Middle East,” he said.
He said that increased flights are expected out of South American through arrangements with carrier LATAM.
“When LATAM comes on stream, Jamaica will be the only English-speaking Caribbean country that will have that level of connectivity from the entire Americas – both North and South,” he noted.
For his part, United States Ambassador to Jamaica, Donald Tapia, said that the countries have had a great and long history of diplomatic relations, which includes strong airlift arrangements.
“Today is another representation of the strong ties between both countries, which will positively impact Jamaica’s tourism and our largest carrier,” he said.
Contact: Garwin Davis
Release: JIS
Photo Captions:
Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett (right) shares a light moment with United States Ambassador, His Excellency Donald Tapia. Occasion was a reception to welcome American Airlines’ daily nonstop service from New York’s John F Kennedy Airport to Montego Bay, at the Sangster International Airport on November 21.
Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, addresses business interests and tourism stakeholders at a reception to welcome American Airlines’ daily nonstop service from New York’s John F Kennedy Airport to Montego Bay, at the Sangster International Airport on November 21.
Photos (Garwin Davis)
KINGSTON, May 1 (JIS):
Ground has been broken at the tuition-free Christel House at Twickenham Park, St. Catherine, for the construction of a high school.
Minister of Education and Youth, Hon. Faval Williams, who delivered the keynote address at the site, today (May 1), said Christel House’s dedication to breaking the cycle of poverty and empowering vulnerable children is “nothing short of inspiring”.
“Your decision to invest in Jamaica speaks volumes about your belief in our nation’s potential, and your dedication to making a meaningful difference in the lives of our youth is appreciated,” Minister Williams said.
She added that the partnership between the Government and the organisation, forged through a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) in 2019, is a “prime example” of what can be achieved when public and private entities come together with a shared vision and purpose.
Further, the Minister said a foundation is being laid for a brighter future, one where every child has the opportunity to thrive and fulfil their potential, regardless of their circumstances.
She said that Christel House Jamaica, which now operates a kindergarten school at the location, will in time be more than just a school.
“It will be a symbol of optimism, a sanctuary of learning, and a catalyst for positive change in our community,” the Minister said.
“By providing comprehensive support, including education, nutrition, healthcare, and mentorship, Christel House will empower students to break free from the chains of poverty and chart a course towards a better tomorrow,” she added.
Mrs. Willliams said the shared goal between the Administration and Christel House extends beyond the construction of a building, as it is about nurturing the next generation of leaders, innovators, and change-makers who will shape the destiny of the nation.
“Together, we are sowing the seeds of prosperity, equity, and social justice, ensuring that no child is left behind,” she said.
The school provides breakfast, lunch and an afternoon snack, as well as transportation for children living far distances from the school. It also provides uniforms and textbooks, and counselling services for its students who have to contend with psychological and other emotional issues.
Founder of Christel House International, Christel Dehaan, emigrated from Germany to the United States (US) in 1962, and was an accomplished businesswoman.
In 1996, she sold her global enterprise, Resort Condominiums International (RCI), which had offices in 38 countries, and devoted her resources to philanthropic work from her headquarters in North Meridian Street, Indianapolis.
With support from dedicated donors, schools are run in India, Jamaica, Mexico, South Africa, and the US.
CONTACT: GARFIELD L. ANGUS
-
Crime2 days agoUnlocking Perspectives: Serious Tourist Incidents unveiled in TCI
-
Latin America and Caribbean1 week agoRegional SDGs Update
-
TCI News2 days agoRegional SDGs Update; 22% to be reached by 2030
-
Bahamas News1 week agoEnvironment State-Minister updates ‘Our Ocean’ forum on The Bahamas as SIDS leader in sustainable tourism
-
Bahamas News1 week agoPacesetting Cohort of Eleuthera Residents Graduate from Leading Light Programme
-
Bahamas News1 week agoNassau Cruise Port Donates Nearly $2 Million Towards Food Security
-
Bahamas News2 days agoCIBC Caribbean announces the closure of Bay Street Branch
-
Health1 week agoIncreased cases of Chicken Pox Prompts Ministry of Health and Human Services Response