Optimism Greets American Airlines Entry into Northeastern Jamaica

Residents and business interests in the northeastern parishes of St. Ann, St. Mary and Portland are eagerly anticipating the introduction of American Airlines’ new flights between Miami International Airport, Florida, and Ian Fleming International Airport in Boscobel, St. Mary.

The airline, headquartered in Texas, recently announced that it will operate two weekly flights on the route starting on February 24, 2024, using its Embraer 175 aircraft, which has capacity for 76 passengers.

It will be the first US airline to service the Ian Fleming airport.

One of the key advantages being highlighted is the convenience that the new flight route will bring to visitors staying in Ocho Rios, Boscobel, Tower Isle, and Port Antonio.

Speaking with JIS News, owner of the Taj Mahal Plaza in Ocho Rios, Sanju Chatani, says that a common complaint by visitors wanting to stay in the northeastern region is the drive by road after a long flight.

“It is a big win for the northeastern region…a big win for Jamaica. American Airlines is the first major carrier to announce such a move and inevitably, I am sure that others will follow. This is powerful stuff indeed,” he says.

Portland businessman Danny Royal tells JIS News that the resort parish “might well be the biggest beneficiary” of this development.

“Being so far away from the Sangster Airport in Montego Bay has placed Port Antonio at a major disadvantage for decades in terms of tourist arrivals,” he contends.

“I am not saying that this is the end all or something that will solve all our problems overnight. I am however seeing this as a major start and a catalyst for bigger things to come,” he says.

Jamaicans in the diaspora also welcome the easier access to their home parishes that the new flight route provides.

“I am originally from Three Hills, St. Mary, as close as you can get to living near the Boscobel airport…basically in my backyard. I now will have access to a direct flight from Miami to my doorstep,” an excited US based Jamaican healthcare worker, Gaylyn Murray, tells JIS News.

“I, along with the rest of my family, have longed for this day…very happy. The entire region and Jamaica by extension will benefit.”

Calling the development an important step for the growth of tourism in the northeastern region, Tourism Minister, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, says the move justifies the Government’s vision in expanding the Ian Fleming Airport.

“There were some who were questioning whether the expansion would bring value for money so yes, this latest development is also truly a sense of vindication. With direct access to Ian Fleming International Airport, travelers will no longer have to endure the lengthy road journey to reach say Port Antonio from Montego Bay. This is expected to significantly enhance the overall visitor experience and accessibility to the northeastern region of the island,” Minister Bartlett tells JIS News.

“Moreover, businesses in those areas are looking forward to the economic benefits that the new flight route is anticipated to bring. Visitors traveling from faraway destinations in the US would love to know that a connection can now be made at the American Airlines hub in Miami, which will take them within proximity to their place of stay,” he adds.

Minister Bartlett says that the improved accessibility and connectivity are expected to attract more tourists to the area, leading to increased foot traffic and spending at local establishments.

He notes further that the potential for growth and development in the tourism sector, as well as related industries, is a source of great anticipation and optimism for the local business community.

Chief Strategist and Senior Adviser in the Ministry of Tourism, Delano Seiveright, for his part, tells JIS News that the increased accessibility and convenience for visitors, coupled with the potential economic boost for businesses, will enhance growth and prosperity in the northeastern parishes and neighbouring areas.

“As the February 2024 launch date approaches, residents and businesses eagerly await the transformational effects that this new route is poised to bring to their corner of the island,” Mr. Seiveright says.

American Airlines operates multiple daily non-stop flights to the destination from several US cities including Miami, New York, Philadelphia, Chicago, Boston, Dallas/Fort Worth, and Charlotte.

Vice President for International Operations, Jose A. Freig, notes that after more than 45 years of operating in Jamaica, the carrier is excited to continue expanding its service to the island.

He adds that the new route will further bolster its position as the leading airline in Jamaica, offering more than 100 weekly flights to the US.