Canada is expected to deliver Jamaica’s largest increase in airline seat capacity next winter.
The Jamaican Gleaner reports that the increased airlift has been driven by the Jamaica Tourist Board's strategic efforts to accelerate the recovery of the country's tourism sector after Hurricane Melissa.
The newspaper quotes Director of Tourism Donovan White as saying Canada is poised to become Jamaica’s fastest-growing source market for airline seats, with new routes and expanded services planned by several carriers as the island looks beyond its traditional visitor base in Ontario.
“Canada is probably going to see the biggest growth in seat capacity starting next winter,” White told the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association’s 65th Annual General Meeting at Sandals Dunn’s River.
In a statement posted on the Jamaica Ministry of Tourism website last fall, Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett said Jamaica is aiming to welcome 600,000 Canadian visitors annually and generate US$750 million in tourism earnings by 2030.
The goal comes as the destination experiences a 22% increase in Canadian airlift capacity for the upcoming winter season.
The JTB says it will intensify its marketing efforts in Canada, focusing on digital engagement, travel trade partnerships and consumer-facing campaigns that showcase the island’s authentic experiences and value proposition.
Porter Airlines this winter will begin operating flights from to MBJ from YYZ, YOW and YHM. Air Canada is introducing flights from YHZ and boosting service from YOW. The Gleaner said WestJet will add flights from YEG, a market the JTB believes offers significant untapped potential.
Parts of western Jamaica were hit hard by Hurricane Melissa last October, but most hotels and resorts are now fully open and welcoming visitors.
