Inaugural Flight from North Carolina by Avelo Airlines

Avelo Airlines marked a significant milestone on February 12, with the launch of its inaugural international flight from Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) in North Carolina to Sangster International Airport (MBJ), in Montego Bay, St. James.

Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett, welcomed the flight, noting that Avelo is the only airline providing nonstop service between Montego Bay and North Carolina’s Research Triangle.

“This is just another feather in our cap,” the Minister said, emphasising the importance of connectivity in attracting more visitors to Jamaica.

The inaugural flight, which will operate twice weekly on Wednesdays and Saturdays, utilises Boeing’s Next-Generation 737 aircraft.

Mr. Bartlett said that the addition of this route expands Avelo’s current nonstop service to Hartford’s Bradley International Airport in Connecticut, further enhancing the island’s connectivity to key markets.

Executive Director of Jamaica Vacations (JAMVAC), Joy Roberts, also expressed enthusiasm for the new route.

“We are excited to welcome Avelo Airlines from Raleigh into Montego Bay. This nonstop service opens up new travel opportunities for visitors from Raleigh-Durham and strengthens Jamaica’s position as a preferred destination in the Caribbean,” she said.

She further emphasised the importance of such connections in boosting Jamaica’s tourism industry, noting that increased accessibility will inevitably lead to higher visitor numbers.

For his part, Sangster International Airport’s Chief Executive Officer, Shane Munroe, also welcomed the flight.

“We are thrilled to welcome Avelo Airlines and their new nonstop service connecting Raleigh-Durham with Montego Bay. This new route not only enhances travel options for our passengers but also strengthens our international connectivity,” he said.

Avelo Airlines, which commenced operations in April 2021, quickly made a name for itself in the aviation industry. Having flown over 6.3 million customers on nearly 50,000 flights, the airline currently serves 53 cities across 23 states and Puerto Rico, as well as three international destinations – Jamaica, Mexico, and the Dominican Republic.

In the meantime, Mr. Bartlett said the Government is also pleased with the massive infrastructural upgrade at Sangster Airport, citing reports of exceptional customer satisfaction and being consistently ranked among the best in the region.

“This focus on customer service aligns well with Jamaica’s goal of enhancing the visitor experience, ensuring that tourists feel welcomed and valued upon arrival,” the Minister emphasised.

“As Avelo Airlines embarks on this new journey, Jamaica stands ready to be a reliable partner and will continue to do our part in ensuring visitor satisfaction and to provide safety, security and seamlessness,” he said.