hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Posted (1 year 1 month 4 weeks 1 day 6 hours ago) and read 15239 times:
Welcome Guys..
For this edition of our thread, we will take a closer look at traffic changes in KIN..
A new home based airline has landed in KIN..Introducing our newest airline, FlyJamaica Airways...
Fly Jamaica Airways is declaring its here to stay. The fledgling carrier took delivery of its new 198-seater boeing 757 aircraft on Saturday.. Fly Jamaica is to operate between Kingston, Georgetown,Toronto and New York in the coming weeks. The company's chief investor and CEO, Captain Paul Reece, was upbeat about the prospects for Fly Jamaica based on the airline's model. Captain Reece also disclosed that another Boeing 757 aircraft will be added over the next 12 months..
Fly Jamaica is hoping to attract patronage mainly from home, the Jamaican diaspora and is aiming to take a slice of the tourist market. The airline's in-flight services manager wants to restore the perks and amenities travellers have been missing.
Media clip available from 3:11..http://news.cvmtv.com/index.php?news=watch#
Westjet Airlines, announced a new 3 weekly service linking YYZ and KIN eff Apr 30..The service will operate on MON, Fri and Sun, also provides onward connections to Calgary,Edmonton,Halifax,Montreal,Ottawa,Vancouver and Winnipeg..
Jetblue's new double daily E190 service starts on Apr 30 linking KIN-FLL..For the peak summer it is expected a double A320 service will service the route..
British Airways to increase KIN to 3 weekly eff Mar 26...Flights will op Mon, Wed and Thur..From all indications, BA will have a monopoly on the KIN-LGW route for the summer..
American Airlines will increase their MIA-KIN flights to 4 daily..The new service will operate between Apr 4 and Aug 20...
Major cuts to their Jamaican operation;
KIN-MIA was cancelled after two months of service..
FLL-KIN has been reduced to 2 daily from 3..Flight times have changed to allow an earlier departure from FLL to compete with B6's new service..
KIN-MBJ-PHL has been reduced to 4 weekly..Previous service operated daily..
More than 150 Customer Service Agents will be outsourced..
Redjet has suspended services..The operated a 2 weekly service between KIN and BGI and POS and KIN..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 1, posted (1 year 1 month 4 weeks 1 day ago) and read 15131 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): For this edition of our thread, we will take a closer look at traffic changes in KIN..
Great theme/title for thread 43. Somewhat different from the usual format.
Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): Westjet Airlines, announced a new 3 weekly service linking YYZ and KIN eff Apr 30.
Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): Jetblue's new double daily E190 service starts on Apr 30 linking KIN-FLL.
Two new links to KIN on the same day. Not bad. Now a B6 FLL-MBJ service with their E-190 would be the icing on the cake.
Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): British Airways to increase KIN to 3 weekly eff Mar 26...Flights will op Mon, Wed and Thur..From all indications, BA will have a monopoly on the KIN-LGW route for the summer..
Good that BA's 772 will be making the KIN rounds 3x weekly. I am certain they will enjoy that monopoly.
Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): American Airlines will increase their MIA-KIN flights to 4 daily..The new service will operate between Apr 4 and Aug 20...
Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): Major cuts to their Jamaican operation;
KIN-MIA was cancelled after two months of service..
No one dare test AA on the MIA-KIN sector.
Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): Redjet has suspended services..The operated a 2 weekly service between KIN and BGI and POS and KIN..
One thing is certain, they did impact fares on the routes they served when they were around.
I love the title of this story, "The new piece of Jamaica that flies"..As previously mentioned, I hope they will have a revised livery that projects the strength of "Brand Jamaica"..Its apparent more and more carriers are attracted to KIN based on the demise of the old JM...
Quote: FlyJamaica's principals are Guyanese, but the company is majority owned and controlled by Jamaicans, and the carrier is expected to commence service as early as April.
"We are in the document evaluation stages, the flight crew and cabin crew are completing their training, and the next stage will include a demonstration flight by the carrier, a standard procedure for all new start up carriers," JCAA's director of flight operations, Nari William-Singh, told The Gleaner.
Revealing that the airline's application was far advanced, having completed Best Practices, William-Singh said all that is outstanding needs to be completed before the JCAA can issue an air operator certificate.
There is also a process that FlyJamaica needs to complete with the FAA, before they can begin operation. However, William-Singh did not go into details, except to say that the two entities worked closely in this process.
The Gleaner understands that captain Lloyd Tai, former senior captain of Air Jamaica, has been retained as a consultant during the certification stages, while Christene Steele, also of the former national carrier, has been named to the team.
FlyJamaica will operate between Kingston and Georgetown, Guyana, New York's JFK and Toronto, Canada, when it does commence operation, and is being viewed by many in the industry as another airline aimed at filling the void left from the demise of Air Jamaica.
The airline is expected to give Caribbean Airlines (CAL) competition on the Jamaican and Guyanese route.
LimaMike From Jamaica, joined Feb 2006, 224 posts, RR: 0 Reply 3, posted (1 year 1 month 4 weeks 5 hours ago) and read 14991 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 2): British Airways to increase KIN to 3 weekly eff Mar 26...Flights will op Mon, Wed and Thur..From all indications, BA will have a monopoly on the KIN-LGW route for the summer..
Interesting that the new BA sched will be Mon, Wed, Thur. Before they dropped to 2x weekly (Mon, Fri) they had a Mon, Wed, Fri operation. Would've thought they'd simply revert to that with the return to 3x weekly service.
GUYAIR707 From Guyana, joined Jan 2011, 562 posts, RR: 0 Reply 4, posted (1 year 1 month 4 weeks 1 hour ago) and read 14939 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 2): I love the title of this story, "The new piece of Jamaica that flies"..As previously mentioned, I hope they will have a revised livery that projects the strength of "Brand Jamaica"..Its apparent more and more carriers are attracted to KIN based on the demise of the old JM...
Very interesting. I hope they succeed and I hope the travelling public benefits. The concensus is that private Guyanese investment is destined to fail. Maybe this joint Guyanese and Jamaican venture will prove everyone wrong. If they can get Guyana out of Cat 2 status, and fly some nonstop GEO-JFK and GEO-YYZ routes they may acquire a larger following.
The recipe for GEO is daily reliable nonstop with smaller a/c as the loads are not that large. If the 738 or 737 can make it with good serivce and reliability, on time, and good baggage allowances, that airline will get the market.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 5, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 6 days ago) and read 14795 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 4): Very interesting. I hope they succeed and I hope the travelling public benefits. The concensus is that private Guyanese investment is destined to fail. Maybe this joint Guyanese and Jamaican venture will prove everyone wrong. If they can get Guyana out of Cat 2 status, and fly some nonstop GEO-JFK and GEO-YYZ routes they may acquire a larger following.
I have no doubt they will do well in KIN..These are ex JM staff who are well knowledgable about "brand loyalty"...I know for a fact these individuals will use the strengths of ex JM to grow this new carrier...
I hope their future plans include operating flights out of MBJ..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 8, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 5 days 16 hours ago) and read 14691 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 2): Also for the month of Easter, they will operate double dailies to KIN from JFK..
Is this the first time B6 is operating the second JFK-KIN flight during the Easter period ? Usually it operates during the Summer and/or Winter as far as I can remember.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 9, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 5 days 5 hours ago) and read 14623 times:
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 7): Wow, very robust performances recorded by all the carriers. Seems it was a stellar month for everyone!
I agree..I expect stronger loads for this summer based on the fact it is our 50th Independence Celebration..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 8): Is this the first time B6 is operating the second JFK-KIN flight during the Easter period ? Usually it operates during the Summer and/or Winter as far as I can remember.
Its a first for B6 to operate 2 daily JFK-KIN during the Easter....I expect once loads and yields improve, we may see daily year round double daily service..
Also, the JTB has been in discussion with B6 to increase services from JFK-MBJ.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 8): B6 standing out as usual. As I said in a previous post, it is imperative to remember that they charge for the second luggage.
I agree..
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Its looks like BW has been granted approval to operate KIN-MBJ-KIN shuttle flights...Training for ATRs should commence shortly...
guyanam From United States of America, joined Mar 2010, 952 posts, RR: 1 Reply 10, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 5 days 2 hours ago) and read 14578 times:
GUYAIR707 From Guyana, joined Jan 2011, 562 posts, RR: 0 Reply 11, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 5 days ago) and read 14529 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 9): Its looks like BW has been granted approval to operate KIN-MBJ-KIN shuttle flights...Training for ATRs should commence shortly...
Quoting guyanam (Reply 10): Its looks like BW has been granted approval to operate KIN-MBJ-KIN shuttle flights...Training for ATRs should commence shortly...
Yeah and REDjet was announcing new destinations up to a few days before they stopped flying. I know BW has the GORTT to back them up but BW has a good thing going and a great opportunity with the acquisition of Air Jamaica. It will be totally up to them to mess this up.
I keep saying they need to be careful chasing the competition and losing themselves in the process.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 12, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 4 days 5 hours ago) and read 14408 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 10): Oh so at least one ATR wil be based in KIN after all.
At least for now, but I can tell you the local operators are giving them a warm time in regards to operating new routes with their ATRs..
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 11): Yeah and REDjet was announcing new destinations up to a few days before they stopped flying. I know BW has the GORTT to back them up but BW has a good thing going and a great opportunity with the acquisition of Air Jamaica. It will be totally up to them to mess this up.
I keep saying they need to be careful chasing the competition and losing themselves in the process.
At the end of the day, none of this should be a surprise..If one thing should be clear, myself and other Jamaicans are happy to see the steady increase in new traffic into KIN...
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 13, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 3 days 10 hours ago) and read 14275 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 11): Yeah and REDjet was announcing new destinations up to a few days before they stopped flying. I know BW has the GORTT to back them up but BW has a good thing going and a great opportunity with the acquisition of Air Jamaica. It will be totally up to them to mess this up.
I keep saying they need to be careful chasing the competition and losing themselves in the process.
Here are two interesting articles re the state of Caribbean aviation today..............
'' Therefore, the introduction of a low-cost airline, REDjet, into the Caribbean last year was a welcome relief for Caribbean travellers who took to the airline like a duck to water, and cocked a snook at both LIAT and CAL because they were so delighted to travel at lower prices.
The travellers' vote for REDjet by using its services rather than CAL's or LIAT's was directed particularly at CAL because they know that CAL flies on a huge fuel subsidy from the Trinidad and Tobago Government, paying less than half the price for a gallon of fuel than is paid by LIAT, and indeed, was paid by REDjet.
In the view of most travellers — but especially those from Trinidad and Tobago — if taxpayers' money is being used to subsidise the cost of CAL's fights, the subsidy should be reflected in a lower cost of airfares. It was particularly galling for passengers to pay CAL's high fares when its chairman announced huge profits (on the basis of the fuel subsidy).
As it turns out, CAL's profits are a mirage. Once the fuel subsidy is subtracted from the declared profits, CAL is just another losing airline. The news that emerged that it has also not paid in recent months for the fuel it gets at a reduced price from the state-owned company, National Petroleum, shows that even with subsidised fuel, its operations are not efficient enough to pay its way. ''
'' This quite dramatic financial crisis development for Redjet has ignited new talk about subsidy for and ownership of regional airlines, but with no official stirrings of significance, as yet, in two of the major centres of Caricom -- Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica -- which are both still preoccupied with making a success of their merger of Caribbean Airlines and Air Jamaica.
To hear Redjet's senior personnel seeking to justify the sudden shutdown of operations after a very recent boastful official claim (though unsubstantiated), that the airline had "an excellent" financial year in 2011, is to rub salt in the wounds of stranded Caricom nationals currently being rescued by regional airline LIAT. ''
So we are basically back at square one it would seem. Very very interesting days are ahead.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 12): At the end of the day, none of this should be a surprise..If one thing should be clear, myself and other Jamaicans are happy to see the steady increase in new traffic into KIN...
As many ( including myself ) have stated over and over again in past threads, the KIN market was never going to be a walk in the park, and this will only get even more competitive with several carriers beefing up are inaugurating services to the capital city airport. At the end of the day the travellers will welcome the various travel options available to them.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 14, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 3 days 5 hours ago) and read 14210 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 13): '' Therefore, the introduction of a low-cost airline, REDjet, into the Caribbean last year was a welcome relief for Caribbean travellers who took to the airline like a duck to water, and cocked a snook at both LIAT and CAL because they were so delighted to travel at lower prices.
I heard, there will be an update by Friday..Looks like they will return to the skies but with a leaner structure...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 13): ' This quite dramatic financial crisis development for Redjet has ignited new talk about subsidy for and ownership of regional airlines,
Am surprised they are embroiled in this dispute with the GOB regarding subsidies..If memory serves me right, this was the same Govt who claimed they were an investor in the carrier...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 13): As many ( including myself ) have stated over and over again in past threads, the KIN market was never going to be a walk in the park, and this will only get even more competitive with several carriers beefing up are inaugurating services to the capital city airport. At the end of the day the travellers will welcome the various travel options available to them.
I heard Fly-Jam, is looking to inaugurate services during the Easter Travel Period..
There was a story on FB about this venture..The majority of comments showed great enthusiasm for this new product..
I hope they will manage their structure well to facilitate expansions....
yellowtail From United States of America, joined Jun 2005, 5145 posts, RR: 2 Reply 15, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 2 days 8 hours ago) and read 14022 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 14): I hope they will manage their structure well to facilitate expansions....
Expansion? The need to survive first.
My humble suggestion to them is to establish themselves as THE "ethnic" carrier on a route, whatever that is, then use that as a beachhead for slow expansion.
When in doubt, hold on to your altitude. No-one has ever collided with the sky.
"Ethnic"?? What does that mean? Either way I think FJ will be carrying mostly VFR's and they should probably market and cater to that crowd. That said, as far as I know that is what most of the startup charters do.
For the Guyanese they want reliability (fly when they are supposed to), and everyone wants value. A one a/c charter/airline is destined to be in trouble when the a/c gives problems.
guyanam From United States of America, joined Mar 2010, 952 posts, RR: 1 Reply 17, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 2 days 3 hours ago) and read 13939 times:
Rest assured that Guyanese arent flying FlyJ except for the few score a week who travel to KIN. Maybe a few to YYZ. JFK has three carriers....all offering nonstops...even BW. I find it hard not to think that JFK GEO isnt over served at present.
Yeah that one stop is probably a deterrent. I am sure that the 3 nonstop flights are more than enough. During the summer months a fourth flight may get some market share, however, with both BW and EZjet using 762's and DL's 763 there may be enough seats.
Quoting yellowtail (Reply 15): My humble suggestion to them is to establish themselves as THE "ethnic" carrier on a route, whatever that is, then use that as a beachhead for slow expansion.
Based on the current happenings in KIN, being established as a preferred ethnic carrier will be a walk in the park...
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 16): For the Guyanese they want reliability (fly when they are supposed to), and everyone wants value. A one a/c charter/airline is destined to be in trouble when the a/c gives problems.
This is one of my biggest concerns..Reliability on one aircraft can lead to multiple delays in the event the aircraft goes tech..I hope they have a back up plan..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 20, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 1 day 1 hour ago) and read 13723 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 19): This past weekend, BA operated their last flight between MBJ and LGW..A video was posted on YouTube that captured the final departure from rwy07..
I was just about to ask when will BA have their final MBJ-LGW flight. Seem a few goats went to see the B772 off as well....LOL...........Those GE90 engines sound sweet. It is a pity the APD tax, global recession, rising oil prices etc. contributed to the discontinuation once again of this historical service. The video poster suggested that hopefully they will be back someday using a B767. As far as I know those aircraft are all LHR based if I am not mistaken, so that is highly unlikely to happen. None the less, myself hope to see them back in MBJ someday.
Maybe they heard of the BW 767's (lol). Do you have any idea if in it's heyday they filled the 772's? MoBay is a huge tourist destination from where, mostly Europe or the US or both?
I had no idea that KIN was out in the ocean like that, is the airport connected to the mainland by land fill, or is it existing land connecting it? All in all a very unusual set up.
Is it just one main runway? Not much room for expansion without some expensive landfill being done. Very nice overhead pic of KIN at the beginning.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 22, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 20 hours ago) and read 13641 times:
Eff the end of Aug, CO will suspend their EWR-MBJ services until early NOV...The service will operate weekly in Nov, then will be upgraded to 4 a week in Dec..For the peak Dec period, flights will operate daily..
Their IAH-MBJ services will operate weekly until it increases to daily for the peak winter travel..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 20): I was just about to ask when will BA have their final MBJ-LGW flight. Seem a few goats went to see the B772 off as well....LOL...........Those GE90 engines sound sweet. It is a pity the APD tax, global recession, rising oil prices etc. contributed to the discontinuation once again of this historical service. The video poster suggested that hopefully they will be back someday using a B767. As far as I know those aircraft are all LHR based if I am not mistaken, so t
I agree, I love to hear the humming sound from those GE Engines...
I doubt BA will return to MBJ..Their B767s are based at LHR......
With the increase in services coming from VS, I have a feeling MBJ will be seing both their A330 and B787s..
Over the years BA operated various metals to both MBJ and KIN. I grew up seeing the B747's, DC10's and now the B772's. Guess the only other suitable aircraft that could be used effectively on it presently is the B767 if the situation was different. A suitably configured B787 ( when they do acquire them ) would be a perfect fit for routes like MBJ I think, but I figure other more lucrative business/VFR routes will get priority over leisure ones with that particular metal.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 21): Do you have any idea if in it's heyday they filled the 772's?
Back in the day the B747 operated LHR-MBJ-KIN-LHR. Then LGW-MBJ-KIN-LGW. So did the DC10's from LGW. Then the B772's initially did a LGW-KIN-MBJ-KIN-LGW routing before deploying the B772 to each airport. As for loads on the B772, I have no statistical data but I read an article recently stating that the LGW-MBJ route averaged 65% since their resumption of service. Also not surprisingly, LGW-KIN attracted more high yielding passengers.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 21): MoBay is a huge tourist destination from where, mostly Europe or the US or both?
The USA & Canada are the largest markets for visitor arrivals to Jamaica. Arrivals from Canada has seen phenomenal growth over the last two years with flights from virtually every major city there to MBJ. Europe is in third place.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 21): I had no idea that KIN was out in the ocean like that, is the airport connected to the mainland by land fill, or is it existing land connecting it? All in all a very unusual set up.
The connection to the mainland is by a natural tombolo or spit to put it in geographical parlance. An unusual set up I think as well. The area that the runway is constructed on was partially dumped up to facilitate it as far as I know. If you look carefully you can also view the original runway a bit to the right of the main one. MBJ on the other hand is located on the coast.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 21): Is it just one main runway? Not much room for expansion without some expensive landfill being done.
One runway and one parallel taxiway. They have room for additional gates and a new control tower etc. But should they decide to lengthen the runway, then yes they have no choice but to do additional dumping in the harbour.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 22): Eff the end of Aug, CO will suspend their EWR-MBJ services until early NOV...The service will operate weekly in Nov, then will be upgraded to 4 a week in Dec..For the peak Dec period, flights will operate daily..
Is this the first time CO is suspending EWR-MBJ for specified periods ? Guess they have to maximise earnings as much as they possibly can by operating flights/frequencies according to season/demand.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 22): With the increase in services coming from VS, I have a feeling MBJ will be seing both their A330 and B787s..
Wouldn't be surprised if that turns out to be the case. Still hoping for a 1x weekly MAN-MBJ from them sometime in the future as well.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 24, posted (1 year 1 month 3 weeks 19 hours ago) and read 13624 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 21): Maybe they heard of the BW 767's (lol). Do you have any idea if in it's heyday they filled the 772's? MoBay is a huge tourist destination from where, mostly Europe or the US or both?
The flights were filled, but the APD killed the yields..BA, with it's high cost structure, could not profitably maintain the route under the current conditions..
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 21): I had no idea that KIN was out in the ocean like that, is the airport connected to the mainland by land fill, or is it existing land connecting it? All in all a very unusual set up.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 21): Is it just one main runway? Not much room for expansion without some expensive landfill being done.
KIN has one main runway...According to this news report, there are plans to expand the runway by 25%..
Kingston-based Norman Manley International Airport, which is up for divestment, is also planning to extend its runway by up to 25 per cent. It awaits environmental approval.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 21): Very nice overhead pic of KIN at the beginning.
I agree..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 23): Is this the first time CO is suspending EWR-MBJ for specified periods ? Guess they have to maximise earnings as much as they possibly can by operating flights/frequencies according to season/demand.
I remember they pulled out in the 90s..But this is the first time they are suspending the route due to seasonal demand..
GUYAIR707 From Guyana, joined Jan 2011, 562 posts, RR: 0 Reply 25, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 6 days 21 hours ago) and read 13501 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 24): The flights were filled, but the APD killed the yields..BA, with it's high cost structure, could not profitably maintain the route under the current conditions..
I decided to check the news reports on the APD and here is the latest:
It seems it is substantial an increase of about 400%!!!! What makes it worst is that the increase is only for pax to the Caribbean and not for those to the US. That seems to be discriminatory. However, it seems with the upcoming elections according to the article, there may be a change in the minds of the politicians. It all just seems stupid to me, the jobs generated would be much more important than the income, and those jobs will generate income.
beeweel15 From United States of America, joined Nov 2003, 1693 posts, RR: 0 Reply 26, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 5 days 17 hours ago) and read 13356 times:
Heard that FlyJamaica is part owned by the folks involved in EZjet. Is this true anyone can confirm this.
guyanam From United States of America, joined Mar 2010, 952 posts, RR: 1 Reply 27, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 5 days 5 hours ago) and read 13311 times:
The reality is the UK fears retaliation from the USA so will treat them more favorably than the Caribbean, which they view as whining ex colonials still demanding a hand out from Mummy (like still using Privy Council...but thats another topic). So they will do nothing for the APD as they care little about whether British born Cbn origin people will no longer be able to see granny...or whther UK tourists will chose Florida instead of Barbados.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 28, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 5 days 4 hours ago) and read 13296 times:
Good News for MBJ..
HAVING started flying to Montego Bay from Panama last December, Copa Airlines is looking to increase its twice weekly service by year end, according to MBJ Airports Limited, the majority owner and operator of the Sangster International Airport.
The airport operator also disclosed, in its latest monthly statistical review, that the purchase of a US-based tour operator and the lease of Grand Lido Braco by Sunwing, will lead to new weekly service from Cincinnati, Ohio and Nashiville, Tennessee in the US.
MBJ, which is focused on developing flights from the mid-west and western United States to the Montego Bay airport, said it was able to meet with new and existing airlines at the Routes Americas Conference 2012, which was held in Nassau, Bahamas February 19-21, 2012.
U.S. hotel company, Choices Hotels International, has set its sights on opening a hotel in Jamaica.
The company identified Jamaica among five islands it will target in the near future for its economy and midscale Choices brand. Choices says the island is among its top targets for 2012. Regional Vice President at Choices, Bill Clegg, says the group is "very keen on re-establishing our presence in Jamaica and driving more business to an already robust tourism destination within the region."
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 25): However, it seems with the upcoming elections according to the article, there may be a change in the minds of the politicians.
I doubt they will change their mind..
Quoting beeweel15 (Reply 26): Heard that FlyJamaica is part owned by the folks involved in EZjet. Is this true anyone can confirm this.
Interesting to see that one guy is bent on using "Brand Image to take a lion share of the KIN and GEO market..
guyanam From United States of America, joined Mar 2010, 952 posts, RR: 1 Reply 30, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 4 days 22 hours ago) and read 13228 times:
Wait for the Sept/Oct 2011 numbers before you jump for joy. THere was a severe seat shortage last summer.
Two issues. First B6 underserved the JFK route last sumer with just one daily flight on the JFK KIN. Second CAL had real operating problems last summer with severely damaged their credibility with many Jcans.
T
This summer B6 will double its JFK capacity and will be a more formidable competitor out of FLL than is NK.
HAVING started flying to Montego Bay from Panama last December, Copa Airlines is looking to increase its twice weekly service by year end, according to MBJ Airports Limited, the majority owner and operator of the Sangster International Airport.
Very impressive that CM intends to increase their PTY-MBJ services already. I assume we will now see them doing 3x or 4x weekly.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 28): The airport operator also disclosed, in its latest monthly statistical review, that the purchase of a US-based tour operator and the lease of Grand Lido Braco by Sunwing, will lead to new weekly service from Cincinnati, Ohio and Nashiville, Tennessee in the US.
I am wondering if this will be the first time that MBJ will be getting charter flights from BNA. Great stuff.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 30): This summer B6 will double its JFK capacity and will be a more formidable competitor out of FLL than is NK.
Agree. They will also be adding an extra JFK-KIN flight for Easter holiday period as well.
AA is promoting their additional MIA-KIN flight for the period April 4th to August 20th 2012 on their website.........
RD licences have been revoked....................................
'' Trinidad and Tobago Friday announced that it had revoked the licences granted to the Barbados-based low cost carrier, REDjet that earlier this month suspended its services to various regional destinations.
In a brief statement, the Trinidad and Tobago Civil Aviation Authority (TTCAA) said it had revoked the licence of REDjet effective March 30. ''
captaink From Mexico, joined May 2001, 5093 posts, RR: 13 Reply 32, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 4 days 7 hours ago) and read 13129 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 30):
Wait for the Sept/Oct 2011 numbers before you jump for joy.
Nevertheless I rather comment on whats happening and it seems as though BW is doing quite well in Jamaica. And even I thought that was going to be impossible. IT would seem as though people are sufficiently content with their service. We all know that American Airlines is not a fantastic airline, and if you don´t need to be in their route network, you would not go out of your way to fly them.
What I would like to know is, are the BW passengers mostly local or tourists..?
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 33, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 4 days 7 hours ago) and read 13139 times:
DOT Stats Sept 2011
BW
FLL-KIN
13244-9168 69%
KIN-FLL
13244-8257 62%
JFK-KIN
10679-6683 63%
KIN-JFK
10936-7277 66%
FLL-MBJ
4620-2791 60%
MBJ-FLL
4466-2591 58%
JFK-MBJ
4620-3100 67%
MBJ-JFK
4620-3748 65%
MCO-KIN
770-550 71%
KIN-MCO
770-528 68%
PHL-MBJ
4466-1960 44%
MBJ-PHL
4620-2115 46%
AA
DFW-MBJ
1920-1496 78%
MBJ-DFW
1920-1636 85%
MIA-KIN
14240-11212 79%
KIN-MIA
14240-10649 75%
MIA-MBJ
11474-9725 85%
MBJ-MIA
11314-9668 85%
DL
ATL-MBJ
9484-8813 93%
MBJ-ATL
9484-8682 92%
US
CLT-MBJ
9288-8281 89%
MBJ-CLT
9288-8537 92%
PHL-MBJ
1703-1386 81%
MBJ-PHL
1703-1629 95%
CO
EWR-MBJ
640-613 95%
MBJ-EWR
640-607 95%
IAH-MBJ
640-559 87%
MBJ-IAH
640-556 87%
FL
ATL-MBJ
3699-3274 88%
MBJ-ATL
3699-3209 86%
BWI-MBJ
3014-2343 77%
MBJ-BWI
3014-2448 81%
MCO-MBJ
2192-1264 58%
MBJ-MCO
2192-1576 72%
B6
JFK-KIN
4500-3848 86%
KIN-JFK
4500-3980 88%
JFK-MBJ
4800-4211 88%
MBJ-JFK
4800-4110 86%
MCO-MBJ
4500-3095 69%
SY (BW)
FLL-MBJ
4698-2699 57%
MBJ-FLL
4536-2307 51%
PHL-MBJ
4698-1953 41%
MBJ-PHL
4860-2274 47%
NA (BW)
JFK-KIN
1235-937 76%
KIN-JFK
1434-1364 95%
NK
FLL-KIN
1451-1178 81%
KIN-FLL
1451-1192 82%
FLL-MBJ
2238-1336 60%
MBJ-FLL
2060-1405 68%
U5
ORD-MBJ
672-358 53%
MBJ-ORD
672-371 55%
Quoting guyanam (Reply 30): Wait for the Sept/Oct 2011 numbers before you jump for joy. THere was a severe seat shortage last summer.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 30): This summer B6 will double its JFK capacity and will be a more formidable competitor out of FLL than is NK.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 31): Very impressive that CM intends to increase their PTY-MBJ services already. I assume we will now see them doing 3x or 4x weekly.
Quite impressive..I was expecting an increase within a year, but this is an indication that CM's new service has stimulated traffic from Latin America to MBJ..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 31): I am wondering if this will be the first time that MBJ will be getting charter flights from BNA. Great stuff.
AFAIk, this could be the first service from BNA...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 31): AA is promoting their additional MIA-KIN flight for the period April 4th to August 20th 2012 on their website.........
Nice to see AA advertising the non VFR activities in KIN...Despite the negative image, its nice to see carrier taking an interest in growing the market..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 31): '' Trinidad and Tobago Friday announced that it had revoked the licences granted to the Barbados-based low cost carrier, REDjet that earlier this month suspended its services to various regional destinations.
In a brief statement, the Trinidad and Tobago Civil Aviation Authority (TTCAA) said it had revoked the licence of REDjet effective March 30. ''
trintocan From United Kingdom, joined Apr 2000, 3191 posts, RR: 4 Reply 34, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 4 days 7 hours ago) and read 13133 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 25):
It seems it is substantial an increase of about 400%!!!! What makes it worst is that the increase is only for pax to the Caribbean and not for those to the US. That seems to be discriminatory. However, it seems with the upcoming elections according to the article, there may be a change in the minds of the politicians. It all just seems stupid to me, the jobs generated would be much more important than the income, and those jobs will generate income.
The UK APD is based on bands worked on the distances of the nations' capitals from London in miles. Band A covers countries with capitals within 2000 miles - hence the entire EU / EEA and other European countries and North Africa fall into this. Band B includes those with 2001 - 4000 mile distances, Band C 4001 - 6000 miles and Band D everything else. The only large nation split across bands is the Russian Federation, with its European portion within Band A and the Asian part in Band B. Economy class attracts a reduced rate relative to premium classes. The thing is that with increasing distances from the UK the band tax rates increase steeply, in fact almost exponentially. For instance, to fly economy within from the UK to say Spain or France would attract APD of about £12 but this rises to £65 for a Band B nation, £75 for Band C and £85 for Band D. The APD was initially touted as a "green tax" to discourage long-haul air travel but it is now largely viewed as "just" a tax.
The USA and Canada lie in Band B as Washington DC and Ottawa lie within the 4000 mile band. The USA is not split between bands so that Hawaii, despite its considerable distance from the UK, remains in Band B. The Caribbean, apart from Bermuda, lies in Band C. As mentioned earlier, the UK would not dare upset the "special relationship" with the US by unduly shifting things within the arrangements. The Caribbean is a different case - being relatively small and with little real influence anywhere. Sad to say, the Governments should just forget about lobbying the UK Government - they will achieve nothing and just waste taxpayers' money doing so. The UK has serious financial problems and many burning issues at home so pandering to distant small islands is not a priority. All told it is a big pity though as the region's tourism is being badly hit.
About that video, it is very poignant. It is a shame that BA have ended the MBJ route but they will be looking after their bottom line after all. Thus we are discussing APD while watching a victim of it.
Thanks, that makes it much clearer. It seems strange that they would treat the US and Canada as single countries, while dividing the Russian Federatioin. If the initial purpose was to reduce long distance travel then this single country determination just makes it a farce, but as you said now it's just a tax.
BTW I was looking at some old threads and bounced up with your trip report to Guyana. Nicely done, sorry you didn't have pix, but as you said it was last minute.
A few of you guys stuck it out and got this thread going!!
Very interesting stats for the month of September. I took note of the contrasting figures between some of the carriers for what is supposed to be a slow travel month. Once again B6 is among those standing out for that period as expected.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 33): Quite impressive..I was expecting an increase within a year, but this is an indication that CM's new service has stimulated traffic from Latin America to MBJ..
I am sure those visiting MBJ much prefer the PTY connection than a MIA one, especially considering some would not be in possession of a US Visa. Hopefully this upward trend will continue.
Quoting trintocan (Reply 34): The APD was initially touted as a "green tax" to discourage long-haul air travel but it is now largely viewed as "just" a tax.
With the initial objective of the APD, I wonder how else would they expect people to conveniently get from point A to point B if that distance just happen to be a considerable one ? Should they swim ? Anyway I also agree that regional officials should channel their energy ( and the tax payers $$$ ) elsewhere as there is no point going around in circles trying to change the obvious.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 36): This report that a Cayman Airways 737 hit a jetway in MoBay.
The person ( s ) responsible for properly positioning the jet bridge will have some explaining to do. Luckily nothing worst happened.
N312RM From Cayman Islands, joined Mar 2012, 45 posts, RR: 0 Reply 39, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 2 days 21 hours ago) and read 12887 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 36): This report that a Cayman Airways 737 hit a jetway in MoBay.
Yes, according to a reliable source, the marshallers directed the plane too far forward and it hit the jetway, causing damage to the leading edge devices. I understand that the jetway was displaced from its normal position because the square marker on the tarmac was painted the night before. The aircraft remains grounded in MBJ until replacement parts arrive. Hopefully it will be completed by Wednesday. In the meantime, it is causing some delays/disruptions to KX flight schedule.
This story says that GoB pulled RD's license. Not sure that it is accurate.
I wonder what the future holds for their desire to open a base in KIN...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 37): Very interesting stats for the month of September. I took note of the contrasting figures between some of the carriers for what is supposed to be a slow travel month. Once again B6 is among those standing out for that period as expected.
If you notice the US carriers have gauged their frequencies for the slower months..A perfect example is US, who reduced frequency on the PHL by using a E190 and operating 3 a week...
Am curious too see what changes will occur on the KIN-FLL route after summer 2012..
[theye=airjamaica,reply=37]I am sure those visiting MBJ much prefer the PTY connection than a MIA one, especially considering some would not be in possession of a US Visa. Hopefully this upward trend will continue.[/quote]
I would love to see a daily service in the future..
yellowtail From United States of America, joined Jun 2005, 5145 posts, RR: 2 Reply 41, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 2 days 17 hours ago) and read 12822 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 33): Quite impressive..I was expecting an increase within a year, but this is an indication that CM's new service has stimulated traffic from Latin America to MBJ..
Not so fast folks.....I know the folks from CM very well and while your theory may be true, it may also be that CM have realized that loads are actually light and need extra frequencies to appeal to business travelers and shorter vacation people.
It would not be the first time that a route has struggled and by giving it extra service it starts to blossom.
For example DL has found that some routes in the region have better overall LF (even on the busy days) when you keep at least a daily service. There are many routes our region that need frequency to succeed. Ditto for CO (UA)
When in doubt, hold on to your altitude. No-one has ever collided with the sky.
Air Transat offers 18 weekly flights to MBJ from Canada and one flight with another tour operator from CDG weekly, with these new proceedings shall we see an influx of flights to MBJ from more Canadian or European destinations?
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 45, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 1 day 19 hours ago) and read 12634 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 40): If you notice the US carriers have gauged their frequencies for the slower months..A perfect example is US, who reduced frequency on the PHL by using a E190 and operating 3 a week...
I did spot one of their E190 in MBJ last November when I was on my way to MCO. I suspected it was operating the PHL-MBJ run, but it seem the aircraft went tech. Doubt they use it on CLT-MBJ, or if they do, very seldom it would appear.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 40): Am curious too see what changes will occur on the KIN-FLL route after summer 2012..
Many people I know are looking forward to B6's FLL-KIN service as they have taken note of their competitive fares even with the second bag fee.
Quoting Fly2yyz (Reply 44): Air Transat offers 18 weekly flights to MBJ from Canada and one flight with another tour operator from CDG weekly, with these new proceedings shall we see an influx of flights to MBJ from more Canadian or European destinations?
The flights from France operate out of ORY to MBJ I think. Based on the details of the article, we can expect to see additional frequencies out of existing cities from Canada to MBJ on TS, as well as flights from additional gateways. This is welcome news. They did mention in the past that focus was being placed on getting additional airlift out of Europe to MBJ as well, so eagerly waiting to see what new services will be announced.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 47, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 1 day 8 hours ago) and read 12552 times:
Quoting Fly2yyz (Reply 44): Air Transat offers 18 weekly flights to MBJ from Canada and one flight with another tour operator from CDG weekly, with these new proceedings shall we see an influx of flights to MBJ from more Canadian or European destinations?
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 45): The flights from France operate out of ORY to MBJ I think. Based on the details of the article, we can expect to see additional frequencies out of existing cities from Canada to MBJ on TS, as well as flights from additional gateways. This is welcome news. They did mention in the past that focus was being placed on getting additional airlift out of Europe to MBJ as well, so eagerly waiting to see what new services will be announced
Congrats to the new Tourism Mins for pursuing a similar path as Mr Bartlett..This is big news for our Tourism Industry..
Not only will we see more flights from Canada, but it also mentioned new services will be announced from Europe...I expect to see more services from France and perhaps a new city from Germany and Scandinavia..
The current market from Canada is officially locked with all major players offering more than 10 weekly flights to MBJ..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 45): I did spot one of their E190 in MBJ last November when I was on my way to MCO. I suspected it was operating the PHL-MBJ run, but it seem the aircraft went tech. Doubt they use it on CLT-MBJ, or if they do, very seldom it would appear.
They have been using their E190s on the PHL-MBJ flights for the past 3 years..It operates between Sep and Nov...CLT-MBJ uses their A320s and B757s..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 45): Many people I know are looking forward to B6's FLL-KIN service as they have taken note of their competitive fares even with the second bag fee.
B6 currently has the cheapest fare @ $271...This is for travel in July...
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 46): Apparently Redjet has not been officially pronounced dead. They seem to be gasping for air and there are pending attempts at resuscitation.
If they do return,they will return a stronger better carrier, but I still believe, they will be in KIN by the end of the year..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 48, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 1 day ago) and read 12505 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 47): They have been using their E190s on the PHL-MBJ flights for the past 3 years..It operates between Sep and Nov...CLT-MBJ uses their A320s and B757s..
The A321s and A319s are also used on CLT-MBJ sometimes. Below is a ( not so spectacular shot ) I got of one of their A319s on short final for runway 07...................
Snapped that photo on my return to the island last year.
On Sunday April 1st they featured a little story on the local news re the former national carrier. As we may all know, JM was conceptualized in October of 1968, and started flying on April 1st 1969 between JFK and MBJ/KIN and MIA to MBJ/KIN. Was a very interesting little trip down memory lane.
GUYAIR707 From Guyana, joined Jan 2011, 562 posts, RR: 0 Reply 49, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 22 hours ago) and read 12448 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 48): Below is a ( not so spectacular shot ) I got of one of their A319s on short final for runway 07...................
The shot of the a/c may not be great but the blue water looks fantastic. I will be in Grenada next week, can't wait to soak in that Caribbean sea.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 48): On Sunday April 1st they featured a little story on the local news re the former national carrier. As we may all know, JM was conceptualized in October of 1968, and started flying on April 1st 1969 between JFK and MBJ/kin and MIA to MBJ/kin. Was a very interesting little trip down memory lane.
I can understand, when the GoG decided to close GY I was so angry, they said it was hemorrhaging money. Now they regret that they have no National Carrier. There is a feeling you can't explain when you board GY, or in your case JM, in JFK, YYZ or MIA. I usually feel like I have already stepped on Guyanese ground. Usually you see an F/A or pax that you know, you drink some El Dorado or Banks and chat all the way home.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 50, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 20 hours ago) and read 12429 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 49): The shot of the a/c may not be great but the blue water looks fantastic. I will be in Grenada next week, can't wait to soak in that Caribbean sea.
Indeed the water stole the spotlight in that photo ( sorry US ) lol. I did a short trip report back then which have better photos of the action at MBJ.............
Montego Bay and its environs is quite scenic.................
Great to observe the various airlines arriving with the ocean creating a cool backdrop.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 49): There is a feeling you can't explain when you board GY, or in your case JM, in JFK, YYZ or MIA. I usually feel like I have already stepped on Guyanese ground.
Very true. A different experience/feeling no doubt.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 49): I will be in Grenada next week, can't wait to soak in that Caribbean sea.
Do a trip report if possible or try to get some photos of the action at GND.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 51, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 20 hours ago) and read 12419 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 48): The A321s and A319s are also used on CLT-MBJ sometimes. Below is a ( not so spectacular shot ) I got of one of their A319s on short final for runway 07...................
Nice pic..I can tell you took this photo on "top road" at that famous viewing spot..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 48): On Sunday April 1st they featured a little story on the local news re the former national carrier. As we may all know, JM was conceptualized in October of 1968, and started flying on April 1st 1969 between JFK and MBJ/KIN and MIA to MBJ/KIN. Was a very interesting little trip down memory lane.
The memory lives on forever.....
Mr Gordon Stewart of the famed Sandals Intl is now negotiating to acquire the famous Almond Beach Village in Barbados..No doubt his brand will help to stimulate their weakening tourism product...
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 54, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 4 hours ago) and read 12323 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 48): On Sunday April 1st they featured a little story on the local news re the former national carrier. As we may all know, JM was conceptualized in October of 1968, and started flying on April 1st 1969 between JFK and MBJ/KIN and MIA to MBJ/KIN. Was a very interesting little trip down memory lane.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 55, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 4 hours ago) and read 12312 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 53): Does this mean that there will be no BW service to LGW from KIN?
There has been speculations, KIN has seen a reduction in traffic from The UK..If that is the case, there is no room for BW to compete on the KIN-LGW route....With plans by BA to integrate BMI into their network, their chances of success are nil..
caribbean484 From Trinidad and Tobago, joined Jan 2007, 2549 posts, RR: 1 Reply 56, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 3 hours ago) and read 12338 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 55): There has been speculations, KIN has seen a reduction in traffic from The UK..If that is the case, there is no room for BW to compete on the KIN-LGW route....With plans by BA to integrate BMI into their network, their chances of success are nil..
BMI does not even service LGW so I don't know what the point is, BA bought out BMI for their slots at LHR and to expand their network there.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 54): There are more signs this morning that low fare airline REDJET could soon return to the sky.
Chief Executive Officer, Ian Burns, says he expects the air carrier to shortly resume operations.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 57, posted (1 year 1 month 2 weeks 1 hour ago) and read 12279 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 51): I can tell you took this photo on "top road" at that famous viewing spot..
That is '' top road '' alright. View from there is amazing.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 51): Mr Gordon Stewart of the famed Sandals Intl is now negotiating to acquire the famous Almond Beach Village in Barbados..No doubt his brand will help to stimulate their weakening tourism product...
'' Butch '' had always expressed a desire to expand his Sandals brand to Barbados so this is an opportunity for him to do so.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 52): Have a look at this article on an opinion of BW's return to London.
With the ever increasing APD, VS/BA charter airlines grip on BGI-LGW, in addition to BA having a strong presence in their home base, I have very serious doubts re this one, but time will tell how it play out.
trintocan From United Kingdom, joined Apr 2000, 3191 posts, RR: 4 Reply 58, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 6 days 23 hours ago) and read 12256 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 35): BTW I was looking at some old threads and bounced up with your trip report to Guyana. Nicely done, sorry you didn't have pix, but as you said it was last minute.
A few of you guys stuck it out and got this thread going!!
Thank Guyair707 for the kudos. Yes that was my first ever trip report on airliners.net, it even predates the Trip Reports forum which came later on in 2000. I did not have a digital camera or a scanner at the time (I did carry my film SLR) and I did not get pictures at either POS or GEO. Guyana is a very fascinating country with the vibrance of Georgetown, the beehive of activity that is Stabroek Market and the tantalizing drive across the Demerara on the floating bridge. Oh, and Guyanese jewelry is great! In all it was a very memorable 3 day trip even though I primarily went to attend a funeral.
About the Caribbean and Jamaican threads, well, as time went along on a.net it made more sense for news items related to the region to be collected in one or two places rather than having minimal impact being scattered among threads with much greater global attention (think the never ending AA, BA, LHR vs LGW, 757 forever threads)! Eventually many other groups of enthusiasts started doing the same thing hence we have Irish threads, Central American threads and so on.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 50): Montego Bay and its environs is quite scenic.................
Strongly agree. MoBay is beautiful. One also gets a great view of planes approaching MBJ from Doctors Cave Beach. When I last visited MBJ in 2000, my flight back to KTP was delayed due to a plane going tech. There was this lovely viewing deck right outside the domestic terminal with an unimpeded view of the runway and the taxiways. I spent 4 hours there photographing the many planes coming in and out, only leaving when a JM agent came over to say that the flight was now able to depart. I have heard that the deck has closed which is a pity. Never mind, MoBay is quite a fabulous place.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 57):
'' Butch '' had always expressed a desire to expand his Sandals brand to Barbados so this is an opportunity for him to do so.
Butch has long had plans to open a Sandals in Barbados, dating back to the late 1990s. I do recall he had some problems there though I do not recall what happened. Ultimately he did not open any properties there back then. Hopefully this time things will work out for the company.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 52):
Have a look at this article on an opinion of BW's return to London.
That was a very interesting article. Thanks for posting the link. What I can surmise from the article and my own experiences is that POS will have 2 carriers to the UK for the first time since 1994. Back then BW flew daily to LHR with the TriStars and BA did LGW twice weekly (later cut to 1 weekly before being dropped in October that year) with the 747-200. To turn to Jamaica, though, we have seen an interesting consolidation there with BA dropping MBJ's 2 weekly LGW services and adding a 3rd weekly to KIN with VS doing largely the reverse. We then ask ourselves, why have BW decided to go from POS first?
In large part I think that they are trying to test the waters and by starting with the home base they are playing a bit cautiously. Another point mentioned in the article is related to the respective drivers of the POS and KIN economies, namely that POS is a larger business market with banking and oil industries helping to secure higher traffic volumes. I would however counter-argue that geography also plays a role in POS having more weekly services on BA - namely that POS flights operate via UVF and so any passenger shortfall out of POS can be balanced with the massive tourist demand to St. Lucia. KIN services are standalone and with no relatively suitable stopover point along the way, the frequency perhaps reflects the total numbers of seats the market can bear. Recall as you would that PLS and GCM are served from LHR via NAS.
So, will BW eventually try KIN - LGW? In all probability they might do in the future. One has to say though that BA and VS will give them a run for the money - and let's not forget that MBJ sees a lot of VFR traffic too!
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 55): ....With plans by BA to integrate BMI into their network, their chances of success are nil..
Why is BD relevant? BD do not serve the Caribbean anymore or fly from LGW. As mentioned the BA buyout will allow BA to consolidate further at LHR but do not expect any Caribbean services to go from there apart from the aforementioned NAS and tags.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 59, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 6 days 22 hours ago) and read 12230 times:
An interesting article here re the opportunities that exist where trade/travel between Jamaica and Brazil is concerned. The Brazilian ambassador to Jamaica highlighted the fact that there are many untapped opportunities waiting to be exploited. One such is tourism, and he mentioned the none existence of a nonstop flight between both countries, and also the visa requirement for those transiting through the USA.......
But Da Costa e Silva Neto noted that there are other opportunities. For instance, he said Brazil has a lucrative tourist market that Jamaica has failed to tap into %u2014 A mere 1,431 Brazilians visited Jamaica from January to November 2011, noted the ambassador.
'' If you think about the market of tourism in Brazil and how much Brazilians travel abroad every year, this is not even marginal '' the diplomat said.
" The embasssy has been trying to work out ways in which we can help Jamaica promote itself in the Brazilian market.
That is an important effort because with tourism comes business people, who may be through pleasure will look around and see business opportunities in Jamaica '' he added.
Da Costa e Silva Neto said flight connections %u2014 because there are no direct flights from Brazil to Jamaica %u2014 is an obstacle for Jamaica in Brazil's tourist market, particularly because Brazilians in most cases have to get a US visa to travel to Jamaica because their flights connect through hubs in places such as Florida.
'' There are a number of tourists from Brazil that would look into going to Jamaica, but will not because they need to get a US visa to transit through Miami or elsewhere '' said Da Costa e Silva Neto. '' For Brazilians to get a US visa, it's not an easy endeavour. ''
Silva Neto reasoned that Jamaica would need to first raise traffic from Brazil in order to justify an airline company investing in a direct flight from the South American country. He urged the Jamaica Tourist Board to work with Panamanian airline company, Copa, to build a flight package from Brazil to Jamaica via Panama.
'' The problem there is that you don't have enough flights as yet from Panama to Montego Bay, which will be the usual destination '' he admitted.
Hopefully the expected increase in service by CM to MBJ will have a positive impact where this is concerned. Also hopefully the JTB will forge even more arrangements with CM to market the island more extensively in that South American country, with affordable packages etc..............
Quoting trintocan (Reply 58): Guyana is a very fascinating country with the vibrance of Georgetown, the beehive of activity that is Stabroek Market and the tantalizing drive across the Demerara on the floating bridge.
In High School, we had an English Language/Literature and form teacher that was Guyanese, who was planning a trip for us to visit her homeland. I was looking forward to that trip, but unfortunately it didn't work out. It does seem to be an interesting country though.
Quoting trintocan (Reply 58): One also gets a great view of planes approaching MBJ from Doctors Cave Beach.
Indeed. Also for guests staying at the Royal Decameron Hotel, it is cool to have breakfast by the ocean and watch the numerous morning arrivals as they are about to touch down on 07. Have a photo from that spot as well. Will share it one of these days when I find it.
Quoting trintocan (Reply 58): When I last visited MBJ in 2000, my flight back to KTP was delayed due to a plane going tech. There was this lovely viewing deck right outside the domestic terminal with an unimpeded view of the runway and the taxiways. I spent 4 hours there photographing the many planes coming in and out, only leaving when a JM agent came over to say that the flight was now able to depart. I have heard that the deck has closed which is a pity.
I know that area very well. Been there twice when I took JMX from MBJ to KTP back in 2000/2001. A very unobstructed view from the small viewing deck outside of the domestic terminal. There wasn't much traffic at MBJ at the time of the evening I was there on both occasions, but I did remember viewing a VZ A330 landing. Didn't have a digital camera at the time. Wasn't aware of the closure of that area. Both it, and the waving gallery in the main terminal are now gone. A pity indeed.
Quoting trintocan (Reply 58): Never mind, MoBay is quite a fabulous place.
Some view Montego Bay as just an '' entry '' point to the north coast, but there is something about it that I like. It has a nice vibe.
Quoting trintocan (Reply 58): Butch has long had plans to open a Sandals in Barbados, dating back to the late 1990s. I do recall he had some problems there though I do not recall what happened. Ultimately he did not open any properties there back then. Hopefully this time things will work out for the company.
He did mention some issues back then with regards to opening up a Sandals property there, but can't recall the exact nature of the problem either. Should be a good addition to the Barbados offerings.
Quoting trintocan (Reply 58): One has to say though that BA and VS will give them a run for the money - and let's not forget that MBJ sees a lot of VFR traffic too!
Agree. I wish them luck with this one. I think they are going to need it.
jmbweeboy From United States of America, joined Feb 2006, 266 posts, RR: 0 Reply 60, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 6 days 22 hours ago) and read 12221 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 54): Quoting airjamaica (Reply 48):
On Sunday April 1st they featured a little story on the local news re the former national carrier. As we may all know, JM was conceptualized in October of 1968, and started flying on April 1st 1969 between JFK and MBJ/KIN and MIA to MBJ/KIN. Was a very interesting little trip down memory lane.
Hummingbird, thanks for posting this ! Brought back memories, my first JM flight in August 1969 on the DC861 stretch with standup bar, a lobster salad appetizer that was to die for, and those "Rare Tropical Birds" strutting up an down the aisles on final approach into Sangster International Airport. And the Rum Bamboozles served were the best !
Also started flying the Mobay to Miami run the same year in DC930s and the lunch served in first class on such a short fliight, well most airlines don't serve that much food on a transatlantic!
Sometimes today will prepare a Rum Bamboozle just to bring me back to the days of the old JM!
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 61, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 6 days 8 hours ago) and read 12130 times:
More news have come forth about the JTB/Air Transat deal;
The airline has also been transporting a lot of perishable cargo out of Jamaica into Canada and the United States, which Lynch said augured well for the export industry.
They want to increase flights from Western Canada to Jamaica, particularly YVR and YWG...Additional flights are being planned from YUL and YYZ..
Their subsidiary, Look Voyages that serves the ORY-MBJ charter is hoping to start their winter service in Oct and may operate a year round basis..Also, they are looking to operate services from two "unnamed", European cities.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 59): But Da Costa e Silva Neto noted that there are other opportunities. For instance, he said Brazil has a lucrative tourist market that Jamaica has failed to tap into %u2014 A mere 1,431 Brazilians visited Jamaica from January to November 2011, noted the ambassador.
'' If you think about the market of tourism in Brazil and how much Brazilians travel abroad every year, this is not even marginal '' the diplomat said.
" The embasssy has been trying to work out ways in which we can help Jamaica promote itself in the Brazilian market.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 59): Hopefully the expected increase in service by CM to MBJ will have a positive impact where this is concerned. Also hopefully the JTB will forge even more arrangements with CM to market the island more extensively in that South American country, with affordable packages etc..............
I agree....The JTB have cornered the Canadian market..I now hope they are assiduous in securing a nonstop Brazil-Jamaica service..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 59): He did mention some issues back then with regards to opening up a Sandals property there, but can't recall the exact nature of the problem either. Should be a good addition to the Barbados offerings.
At the time, they thought an all inclusive concept would cheapen their reputation in the tourism industry..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 62, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 6 days 7 hours ago) and read 12112 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 61): More news have come forth about the JTB/Air Transat deal;
Two disclosures I found quite noteworthy in the article is that they are working on getting some of these services to operate on a year round basis. Also TS has been transporting quite a number of perishable cargo from Jamaica to both Canada and the USA, so the benefits of this venture spans way beyond just increasing visitor arrivals to the island, which is good.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 61): At the time, they thought an all inclusive concept would cheapen their reputation in the tourism industry..
Very interesting. I know they are big on the EP type of service at their hotels, but I think variety would be beneficial in securing even more visitors to their shores. Why not cater to both with visitors having the choice of the EP package or all inclusive at their disposal ?
guyanam From United States of America, joined Mar 2010, 952 posts, RR: 1 Reply 64, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 6 days 2 hours ago) and read 12046 times:
484 said that the KIN LGW is likely for Xmas. Maybe there are route right issues, or take off slots that are being negotiated
As to the overall KIN base, well Mr Maharaj was quoted in saying that they are under review. I can well imagine that the new Chair and CEO will have to make this a huge priority as it is uncertain how long the fuel hedge will last so CAL cannot afford major money losing routes.I would think that financial ,and not the Jcan govt, will determine what happens. The fact that the G of J is considering the FlyJ application........competition in the VFR market for BW's KIN base........means that they no longer care about it.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 62): Very interesting. I know they are big on the EP type of service at their hotels, but I think variety would be beneficial in securing even more visitors to their shores. Why not cater to both with visitors having the choice of the EP package or all inclusive at their disposal ?
Eventually, they will have to accept having a diversified product will benefit their industry..
Quoting guyanam (Reply 64): The fact that the G of J is considering the FlyJ application........competition in the VFR market for BW's KIN base........means that they no longer care about it.
I heard they received their JCAA approval early this week...
Quoting jm079 (Reply 65): As of July 1- CM will now operate PTY to KIN on Sat, Fri, Tues and Wed .
They will continue to operate there twice weekly flts from PTY to MBJ/
So KIN has finally seen an increase from CM...This is definitely a big year for KIN who has seen new services and increase in existing frequencies..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 67, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 5 days 5 hours ago) and read 11893 times:
Quoting jm079 (Reply 65): As of July 1- CM will now operate PTY to KIN on Sat, Fri, Tues and Wed .
They will continue to operate there twice weekly flts from PTY to MBJ/
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 66): So KIN has finally seen an increase from CM...This is definitely a big year for KIN who has seen new services and increase in existing frequencies..
Very interesting. It is a while now since KIN has seen those kind of frequencies from CM. Will these 4 flights be operated with a mixture of both the E190s and B737s ? Or will they be done on one of those aircraft type ?
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 66): Miami Air flew the local representatives to BDA, who will partcipate in the annual Carifta Games..
During the summer, they also charter LL to transport teachers flying from Kingston to other islands such as Barbados and Trinidad to mark CXC ( or whatever they call it now ) papers.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 68, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 5 days 5 hours ago) and read 11880 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 67): Very interesting. It is a while now since KIN has seen those kind of frequencies from CM. Will these 4 flights be operated with a mixture of both the E190s and B737s ? Or will they be done on one of those aircraft type ?
It will be an all E190 service..This is the schedule..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 67): During the summer, they also charter LL to transport teachers flying from Kingston to other islands such as Barbados and Trinidad to mark CXC ( or whatever they call it now ) papers.
Hopefully, they will return to KIN this year...
-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
It looks like FL will be dropping their ATL-MBJ service later this year..From what I understand, SW will be operating the route...
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 70, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 4 days 7 hours ago) and read 11783 times:
Another BIG News for KIN...
A Canadian Operational Support hub is to be established in Jamaica to provide humanitarian, peacekeeping, development and disaster relief throughout Latin America and the Caribbean. Cabinet has given the go ahead for the signing of the Memorandum of Understanding.
This is the 3rd multi billion dollar investment from Canada..The other two being investment in a new cement factory and new solar energy plant..
I can understand why WS is seeking to enter the KIN market...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 69): 4 hours is quite a long time for the E190 to sit on the ground in KIN before returning to PTY. Good to see the frequency upgrade.
I assume its done in an effort to reduce airport connection time when one arrives in PTY...
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AC will operate their weekly YYC-MBJ service for winter 2013..
Advance bookings for B6's first month of service on the FLL-KIN route are showing loads below 45%
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
For winter 2012, AC will operate their A321 to KIN once weekly with the remaining frequencies being operated with the A320..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 71, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 3 days 9 hours ago) and read 11685 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 70): Advance bookings for B6's first month of service on the FLL-KIN route are showing loads below 45%
I expect loads to pick up by summer.
As expected, Jamaica as well as other destinations will have to endure an 8% increase in the topical APD tax...........
'' The new prices came into effect Sunday, April 1, as was announced by the British government last year.
Locally, the tourism ministry is continuing its efforts to combat any fall-off in visitor arrivals by targeting other countries such as those in South America. ''
baje427 From Barbados, joined Jul 2011, 405 posts, RR: 0 Reply 72, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 3 days 3 hours ago) and read 11640 times:
Outside of SJU MBJ is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean with that view why don't you guys have more pictures in the database you guys can rival SXM with that approach. An issue of contention in BGI with Butch Stewart is his love for private beaches which is a no go in BGI so we will see how that works out.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 73, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 1 day 23 hours ago) and read 11513 times:
Quoting baje427 (Reply 72): Outside of SJU MBJ is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean with that view why don't you guys have more pictures in the database you guys can rival SXM with that approach.
The thing is I am not sure if one is able to get too close to the end of 07 again as was the case in previous years. Stumbled up on this 2010 clip of some great approaches.
Quoting baje427 (Reply 72): An issue of contention in BGI with Butch Stewart is his love for private beaches which is a no go in BGI so we will see how that works out.
This indeed was a big issue with Butch's intention to bring his Sandals property to Barbados in the past. Couldn't recall.
yellowtail From United States of America, joined Jun 2005, 5145 posts, RR: 2 Reply 74, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 1 day 23 hours ago) and read 11500 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 73): This indeed was a big issue with Butch's intention to bring his Sandals property to Barbados in the past. Couldn't recall.
Same issue in BZE. First 60 feet of any sea, river or lagoon frontage is public. As are all docks (except for ports of entry).
Sandals tried to get an exemption. GoB told them no. Hence no property here.
When in doubt, hold on to your altitude. No-one has ever collided with the sky.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 75, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 1 day 7 hours ago) and read 11444 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 73): The thing is I am not sure if one is able to get too close to the end of 07 again as was the case in previous years. Stumbled up on this 2010 clip of some great approaches.
Nice clips of arrivals on rwy 07...If advertised properly, MBJ could be the next SXM, however, getting to the active area, may raise security issues...The area is closed and if spotted, you will be removed by the Defense Force Personnel..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 73): This indeed was a big issue with Butch's intention to bring his Sandals property to Barbados in the past. Couldn't recall.
IMO...As much I respect the view of the society, over the years, the region has experienced an increase in harassment on the these beachfront properties....I believe, if a private property wants to keep a beach private, they should be allowed without objection...
There is an article in the Gleaner, where the writer elaborated why Jamaica should use it's geographical advantage to stimulate air and sea cargo activities in an effort to boost their economy..
Our geographic location in the Caribbean and already advanced development of the Kingston Container Terminal have resulted in the implementation agreement for investment in Jamaica by CMA CGM, one of the world's leading shipping groups.
The United States' inability to accept mega vessels means these mother ships have to transfer cargo to smaller ships to distribute to the world by sea, air, rail and ground transportation.
With the widening of the Panama Canal, manufacturers will be dispatching their goods closer to a seaport axis from where cargo can quickly and efficiently reach their appropriate markets.
Therefore, manufacturers in the Far East, for example, will be filling these vessels with their products and warehousing cargo for logistics distribution (East meets West). This would enable these manufacturers to warehouse cheaper and break bulk at a lower cost than in their own country, hence utilising Caribbean labour through labelling, assembling and repackaging at logistic centres and marketing zones. Indeed, Caribbean labour is ideally suited for such growth in our environment of shrinking job markets.
CANADA continued to perform as a prime growth market for Jamaica’s tourism product, having recorded a 16.5 per cent increase in stopover arrivals from the North American country last year.
Since the drive to target Canadian tourists began in 2005, arrivals have increased year on year by 21.6 per cent on average over the last six years.
However, the Midwest segment of the US market continued to show growth, having posted three consecutive years of increases in stopover arrivals up to 2011.
MBJ Airports Limited, the majority owner and operator of the Sangster International Airport, said that it is focused on developing flights from the Midwest and western United States to the Montego Bay airport.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 76, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 22 hours ago) and read 11388 times:
Quoting baje427 (Reply 72): An issue of contention in BGI with Butch Stewart is his love for private beaches which is a no go in BGI so we will see how that works out.
Quoting yellowtail (Reply 74): Same issue in BZE. First 60 feet of any sea, river or lagoon frontage is public. As are all docks (except for ports of entry).
Sandals tried to get an exemption. GoB told them no. Hence no property here.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): As much I respect the view of the society, over the years, the region has experienced an increase in harassment on the these beachfront properties....I believe, if a private property wants to keep a beach private, they should be allowed without objection...
It is a somewhat controversial subject. I see where both sides are coming from with their stance. But personally if I was constructing a major resort property, the last thing I would want is visitors not enjoying their stay because they are being harassed on the resort's beach, of all the places. Some of them experience more than their fair share on the streets already. In the grand scheme of things, generally I don't have an issue with some beaches being designated public, and others ( as in the case of hotels, etc. ) being designated as private.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): Nice clips of arrivals on rwy 07...If advertised properly, MBJ could be the next SXM, however, getting to the active area, may raise security issues...The area is closed and if spotted, you will be removed by the Defense Force Personnel..
In one of his replies, the poster of that clip mentioned that he jumped a fence to gain access. I would not be putting myself through all that trouble and risk getting into problems with local authorities to spot/photograph there.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): CANADA continued to perform as a prime growth market for Jamaica%u2019s tourism product, having recorded a 16.5 per cent increase in stopover arrivals from the North American country last year.
Since the drive to target Canadian tourists began in 2005, arrivals have increased year on year by 21.6 per cent on average over the last six years.
However, the Midwest segment of the US market continued to show growth, having posted three consecutive years of increases in stopover arrivals up to 2011.
MBJ Airports Limited, the majority owner and operator of the Sangster International Airport, said that it is focused on developing flights from the Midwest and western United States to the Montego Bay airport.
Not surprised by the increase in visitor arrivals from Canada. Very impressive. Hopefully the trend will continue for both there and the US Mid-West.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 76): Not surprised by the increase in visitor arrivals from Canada. Very impressive. Hopefully the trend will continue for both there and the US Mid-West.
According to this article in The Gleaner, Jamaica recorded a 8.4% increase in travel which saw over 3.1 million visitors to our island..I anticipate we will surpass the 4 million mark in the next 2 years...
jm079 From Jamaica, joined Jan 2008, 2253 posts, RR: 0 Reply 78, posted (1 year 1 month 1 week 4 hours ago) and read 11312 times:
News is coming out of KIN that local aviation owners in Jamaica and Trinidadian investors are interested in starting a new airline to serve South America. Brazil Envoy to Jamaica has revealed.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 79, posted (1 year 1 month 6 days 8 hours ago) and read 11207 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 77): Canjet is now operating a weekly YYZ-KIN flight on behalf of GG Tours, Canada...The service should last until May..
I think this is the first time C6 is visiting KIN ( ? )
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 77): According to this article in The Gleaner, Jamaica recorded a 8.4% increase in travel which saw over 3.1 million visitors to our island..I anticipate we will surpass the 4 million mark in the next 2 years...
Not bad at all considering all the challenges that face the industry.
Quoting jm079 (Reply 78): News is coming out of KIN that local aviation owners in Jamaica and Trinidadian investors are interested in starting a new airline to serve South America. Brazil Envoy to Jamaica has revealed.
As much as I agree that the Brazilian/South American market need to be exploited more where business/tourism opportunities is concerned, wouldn't it have been more cost effective and less risky to just work with a Brazilian carrier ( s ) to inaugurate nonstop charter flights to the island ( s ) ? So many '' new '' proposed carriers on the horizon of late. Lets see how this one will play out.
Jamaican restaurant Golden Krust has opened an outlet at EWR.
'' JAMAICAN-OWNED restaurant franchise Golden Krust Caribbean Bakery has added another store to its chain in the US.
The new outlet is at Newark International Airport in New Jersey. ''
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 80, posted (1 year 1 month 6 days 7 hours ago) and read 11180 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 79): I think this is the first time C6 is visiting KIN ( ? )
Yes, I believe, its the first time C6 is visiting KIN..
Am surprised FlyJam has yet to have their inaugural flight..From what I heard, they already received their approval from JCAA and was supposed to launch flights during the Easter holiday....
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 79): Not bad at all considering all the challenges that face the industry.
Am still hoping to see fruition on the Asia/Africa service in the near future..
Quoting jm079 (Reply 78): News is coming out of KIN that local aviation owners in Jamaica and Trinidadian investors are interested in starting a new airline to serve South America. Brazil Envoy to Jamaica has revealed.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 79): As much as I agree that the Brazilian/South American market need to be exploited more where business/tourism opportunities is concerned, wouldn't it have been more cost effective and less risky to just work with a Brazilian carrier ( s ) to inaugurate nonstop charter flights to the island ( s ) ? So many '' new '' proposed carriers on the horizon of late. Lets see how this one will play out.
Good news...So finally, we have local stakeholders stepping up to the plate...I am curious to discover which established local carriers are working on this venture..I also saw, where they plan to connect Sao Paulo with other regional cities...
Could Mr Burns, be a part of this venture??
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 82, posted (1 year 1 month 4 days 9 hours ago) and read 11033 times:
Not good news for our industry..Jazz Air/Thomas Cook Airlines charter has significantly contributed to the growth of arrivals from Canada..With a new JTB/Air Transat deal on the horizon, we can hope the arrivals will see growth for the 2013 winter season..
“A change in market dynamics means that we need to introduce more flexible flying arrangements; the consequence of that is the decision to discontinue our dedicated fleet of 757 aircraft,” said Dean Moore, Thomas Cook North America chief executive, in a statement. “The Jazz team did a great job in operating our Thomas Cook Canada flights and we thank them for the expertise, guidance and support they provided during the last two years.”..... http://business.financialpost.com/20...iation-loses-thomas-cook-contract/
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 83, posted (1 year 1 month 3 days 17 hours ago) and read 10958 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 80): Am surprised FlyJam has yet to have their inaugural flight..From what I heard, they already received their approval from JCAA and was supposed to launch flights during the Easter holiday....
Where is their B752 currently parked ? GEO or KIN ?
Quoting guyanam (Reply 81): Golden Krust had a promotion with B6. I dont know if they have an ongoing relationship..
OK. I see.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 82): Not good news for our industry..Jazz Air/Thomas Cook Airlines charter has significantly contributed to the growth of arrivals from Canada..With a new JTB/Air Transat deal on the horizon, we can hope the arrivals will see growth for the 2013 winter season..
Hopefully TS ( as well as other Canadian carriers ) will be able to fill that sudden void.
yellowtail From United States of America, joined Jun 2005, 5145 posts, RR: 2 Reply 85, posted (1 year 1 month 3 days ago) and read 10849 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): I believe, if a private property wants to keep a beach private, they should be allowed without objection...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 76): It is a somewhat controversial subject. I see where both sides are coming from with their stance. But personally if I was constructing a major resort property, the last thing I would want is visitors not enjoying their stay because they are being harassed on the resort's beach, of all the places. Some of them experience more than their fair share on the streets already. In the grand scheme of things, generally I don't have an issue with some beaches being designated public, and others ( as in the case of hotels, etc. ) being designated as private
All beaches being public works fine in the countries where it is law in the world. If Gov't doesn't then it risks alienating its own countrymen from its own shores. All it needs is policing...proper policing (just like traffic laws!)
The country with best policy seems to be Australia, where except for a grandfathered in Gold Coast a certain footage around all waterways / oceans belongs to the Gov't for parks and public use.
To let private interests and esp foreigners own a piece of your riparian rights is IMHO doing all our descendants a disservice. THe mega resorts are welcome to go to Jamaica...at least I know here in Belize my kids will be able to enjoy any beach in the country without some miserable landowner running us off.
When in doubt, hold on to your altitude. No-one has ever collided with the sky.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 86, posted (1 year 1 month 2 days 17 hours ago) and read 10787 times:
Quoting Fly2yyz (Reply 84): I hope TS decides to make MBJ into what they did with PUJ and make it into a cargo focussed hub.
That would be interesting. Looking forward to their increased presence at MBJ. Thought EG would be back again, but doesn't seem they intend to.
** I notice B6 adjusted the flight times for their daily year round JFK-KIN service. Arrival/Departure is much later than the usual mid morning/early afternoon schedule. The seasonal second flight operated late evenings during the summer year before last I think, while at other peak times it operates in the wee hours.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 87, posted (1 year 1 month 2 days 5 hours ago) and read 10740 times:
Redjet is now seeking financial assistance from the Guyanese Govt..Also, they are in talks with Venezuelan investors who are interested in the airline industry...
Grounded low fare air carrier REDjet has intensified its search for funds to resume operations.
REDjet officials have reportedly approached the Guyanese government for financial assistance and are reportedly also in discussion with foreign investors in an effort to get the airline back in the air.
Guyana%u2019s Minister of Public Works and Transport Robeson Benn confirmed that his Ministry, along with the Ministry of Tourism, met with the carrier%u2019s chief executive officer Ian Burns last week.
Sources also disclosed that the low-cost carrier is in talks with Venezuelans who have interests in the airline industry about getting involved.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 86): ** I notice B6 adjusted the flight times for their daily year round JFK-KIN service. Arrival/Departure is much later than the usual mid morning/early afternoon schedule. The seasonal second flight operated late evenings during the summer year before last I think, while at other peak times it operates in the wee hours.
The new times will make them more popular in the market....The seasonal second service would operate as a night service, which requires a rest stop for the cockpit crew...
Guyanese have long clamored for the govt to restart Guyana Airways. I can imagine how "popular" spending $$$ on a PRIVATE IRISH airline based on Barbados will be for people tired of CALs quasi monopoly out of GEO.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 89, posted (1 year 1 month 2 days 1 hour ago) and read 10710 times:
I think today marks the end of VS's LGW-KIN-LGW service. More than likely we will see a '' farewell/goodbye '' video uploaded to YouTube shortly after. There is a 3 hours delay on that flight ( as well as for BA's LGW-KIN ) due to the emergency landing incident involving a VS A333 that was heading from LGW-MCO.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 87): The new times will make them more popular in the market....The seasonal second service would operate as a night service, which requires a rest stop for the cockpit crew...
They are still operating the usual daily flight with a morning arrival/departure time, but that schedule will be adjusted by May. Used my credit card to purchase a ticket on their website for a co-worker's wife yesterday and could barely get a seat for her in early May. Popular in Jamaica they are.
Fly2yyz From Canada, joined Jan 2006, 964 posts, RR: 2 Reply 91, posted (1 year 1 month 20 hours ago) and read 10520 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 86): That would be interesting. Looking forward to their increased presence at MBJ. Thought EG would be back again, but doesn't seem they intend to.
EG? I was hoping that TS would enter into doing flights for GG Tours, its surprising that they are not taking the place that Z4 was doing with GND, POS, GEO, BGI and of course KIN...
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 92, posted (1 year 1 month 3 hours ago) and read 10432 times:
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 90): FlyJamaica's 757 is currently parked in KIN.
Ok. Deafening silence on their part of late.......
Quoting Fly2yyz (Reply 91): EG? I was hoping that TS would enter into doing flights for GG Tours, its surprising that they are not taking the place that Z4 was doing with GND, POS, GEO, BGI and of course KIN...
That would have been good. If memory serve me correctly I think TS did a few adhoc rotations to KIN from YYZ in the past. At least KIN will be getting new service from WS 3x weekly by month end. Also it is now being reported that they have taken over the charter deal with Thomas Cook Canada so I assume we will be seeing even more of them in MBJ.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 93, posted (1 year 4 weeks 1 day ago) and read 10321 times:
Guys, I am hearing some bad news about the JM operation in KIN..I will await more confirmation, but it seems they are looking at further downsizing the operations....
NAS and PHL will be axed..
Two JM painted planes will be changed to BW's colour scheme..
LimaMike From Jamaica, joined Feb 2006, 224 posts, RR: 0 Reply 94, posted (1 year 4 weeks 16 hours ago) and read 10230 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 93): Guys, I am hearing some bad news about the JM operation in KIN..I will await more confirmation, but it seems they are looking at further downsizing the operations....
NAS and PHL will be axed..
Two JM painted planes will be changed to BW's colour scheme..
Lets wait and see, but if this is indeed proven to be true it would have surprised who exactly? Given the downsizing of FLL, one of the most dominant routes for the carrier, any other route cuts must be seen as plausible. Remember NAS was also dropped during JM 's last ditch efforts at rationalization, and even when BW re-instated it there were questions as to its viability. And with the initial announcement of PHL being dropped to 4x weekly a predictable pattern could have been gleaned; drop to less-than-daily then axed all together. JM 's BWI route had met the same fate.
According to news reports, CAL has removed the JM brand from all their airport announcements..Also, 75 pilots will be made redundant..It is unsure how many will be re-hired..
I wonder why they believe, their own brand will have longevity in the Jamaican market....
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 96, posted (1 year 4 weeks 9 hours ago) and read 10187 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 93): Guys, I am hearing some bad news about the JM operation in KIN..I will await more confirmation, but it seems they are looking at further downsizing the operations....
NAS and PHL will be axed..
Two JM painted planes will be changed to BW's colour scheme..
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 94): Lets wait and see, but if this is indeed proven to be true it would have surprised who exactly? Given the downsizing of FLL, one of the most dominant routes for the carrier, any other route cuts must be seen as plausible. Remember NAS was also dropped during JM 's last ditch efforts at rationalization, and even when BW re-instated it there were questions as to its viability. And with the initial announcement of PHL being dropped to 4x weekly a predictable pattern could have been gleaned; drop to less-than-daily then axed all together. JM 's BWI route had met the same fate.
No surprise really. The warning signs were there loud and clear long ago, though there are those who were in denial trying to '' sugar coat '' the obvious.
Quote :
'' This would be the third time CAL has asked the pilots to go through an interview process since taking over the former national carrier. ''
And the never ending drama continues. Lol. Season 2012 is about to premier.
Quote:
'' There are also reports that Caribbean Airlines could be doing away with the Air Jamaica brand. ''
If this is factual, might as well.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 95): I wonder why they believe, their own brand will have longevity in the Jamaican market....
Because it is strong, world renowned and iconic. Such a move will have those in the diaspora flocking relentlessly to it, especially considering that marketing in Jamaica, and overseas where there are large concentrations of Jamaicans, is one of their strongest attributes. Also let us not forget that they are extremely profitable.
Seem a disabled passenger had a not so pleasant experience recently at the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston.........
'' The Airport Authority of Jamaica is to review its security measures, following complaints from a disabled woman that she was mistreated at the Normal Manley International Airport recently.
Sarah Newland-Martin, the Head of the YMCA, had complained that she was subjected to harsh and humiliating treatment at the airport by security personnel. ''
Will those Air Jamaica painted 737's all be repainted in Caribbean Airlines colors? If so, when will they start repainting them and when is the last one to be repainted?
When I said the KIN ops were in trouble several people on the Caribbean thread tookPERSONA:L exception to this. Its simple. If KIN is losing $$$ then measures will have to be taken to reduce losses. This includes closing down the routes if it comes to that. The overheads have been absorbed into the mainstream CAL and so this will not be as hard as some imagine. Of course the LGW route with 2 767s stops making sense if there is no KIN LGW route...and if BW becomes a minor factor in Jcan aviation this route will attract little patronage from Jcans.
The GofJ has signaled that they no longer consider AJ to be their problem and do not seem interested in providing any support. THey know that its closure will quickly attract increased airlift from other carriers.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 99, posted (1 year 4 weeks 2 hours ago) and read 10136 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 98): When I said the KIN ops were in trouble several people on the Caribbean thread tookPERSONA:L
Well, I'm probably one of them who wanted more prove to this Caribbean Airlines/Air Jamaica more apparent mess so I'll take back my words now Guyanam. I really want to photograph those Air Jamaica 737's but my feeling says I will have no chance if they will be repainted soon (or even by the end of this year)...
jmbweeboy From United States of America, joined Feb 2006, 266 posts, RR: 0 Reply 100, posted (1 year 3 weeks 6 days 22 hours ago) and read 10100 times:
I have been very supportive of CAL's takeover of JM to this point but now some very bad decisions are being made.
That said, the bleeding much be much greater than any of us ever imagined.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 101, posted (1 year 3 weeks 6 days 22 hours ago) and read 10096 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 97): Will those Air Jamaica painted 737's all be repainted in Caribbean Airlines colors? If so, when will they start repainting them and when is the last one to be repainted?
Don't have any specifics on that, but from what I have been hearing in the local media, it would seem that eventually this will ultimately be the case. I recall that recently there were reports re concerns of maintaining the two brands as it pertains to cost. But this latest report seem to paint a somewhat different picture of what is happening............
'' In a release to the media the airline said it was adhering to the requirements of the Trinidad & Tobago Civil Aviation Act and Regulations, the Convention on the International Civil Aviation and the United States Department of Transportation (DOT), which states that any flight announcements or references made to any flight departing from any Airport, must refer to the operating carrier, which in our case is Caribbean Airlines. ''
'' Air Jamaica is a brand and Caribbean Airlines is the operating carrier and holder of the Air Operators Certificate. ''
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 103, posted (1 year 3 weeks 6 days 9 hours ago) and read 10051 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 102): When I flew 4/11 JFK-GND the JM flights at JFK were announced as Caribbean Airlines.
The article I posted above seem to be focusing more on the requirements set out by the respective aviation bodies, where identification during flight announcements/references etc. are concerned. They have not stated definitively that they are going to eliminate the brand all together, but from the look of things, to many it would appear to be heading in that general direction. But there are now also reports of contradictory statements where '' CARIBAL '' is concerned.............
'' This afternoon the Jamaican pilots refuted claims by Air Jamaica Chairman Denis Lalor that CARIBAL was always meant to be a transition company. ''
'' He said from the time of the takeover of Air Jamaica by Caribbean Airlines, it was known that those positions would have eventually been integrated into the parent company.
But this afternoon The Gleaner/Power 106 News Centre was provided with a copy of a letter from the Vice President in charge of human resources at Caribbean Airlines, Charmaine Heslop DaCosta, which suggested otherwise. ''
'' The letter dated October 31, 2010, was written to then president of the Jamaica Airline Pilots’ Association (JALPA) Captain John Williams after he sought information about CARIBAL.
In the letter, Heslop Dacosta, noted that CARIBAL is not a transition company. "
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 104, posted (1 year 3 weeks 5 days 11 hours ago) and read 9949 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 96): No surprise really. The warning signs were there loud and clear long ago, though there are those who were in denial trying to '' sugar coat '' the obvious.
Its obvious they failed in KIN...End of story..
Quoting guyanam (Reply 98): When I said the KIN ops were in trouble several people on the Caribbean thread tookPERSONA:L exception to this. Its simple. If KIN is losing $$$ then measures will have to be taken to reduce losses. This includes closing down the routes if it comes to that. The overheads have been absorbed into the mainstream CAL and so this will not be as hard as some imagine. Of course the LGW route with 2 767s stops making sense if there is no KIN LGW route...and if BW becomes a minor factor in Jcan aviation this route will attract little patronage from Jcans.
The GofJ has signaled that they no longer consider AJ to be their problem and do not seem interested in providing any support. THey know that its closure will quickly attract increased airlift from other carriers.
One should take not that since the attempt at merging both carriers, the market in KIN has seen considerable growth in new traffic..
This is the prefect time for FlyJam to increase their marketing...
They might as ell just drop "Air Jamaica". What sense does it make to the average passenger to be told they are on Air Jamaica when they book, but Caribbean Airlines when they board? In any case every Jcan knows its a "Trini ting" and many have flocked to other carriers. CAL goofed last summer when they had serious delays and abomnable grouind service. Bad intro when the competition was just lying in wait.
Quoting A388 (Reply 105): Could either be a fuel stop or a government visit or maybe even a vacation. In any case I think it is government related.
Have no idea. Haven't heard about any special events taking place here. My thought is maybe a fuel stop. Would be great if someone was able to take some photos of the rare visitor to MBJ.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 106): They might as well just drop "Air Jamaica". What sense does it make to the average passenger to be told they are on Air Jamaica when they book, but Caribbean Airlines when they board?
My thoughts exactly.
Some passengers on AA 2038 KIN-MIA ( sched. 8:45 am ) yesterday decided not to travel again after several delays because of various technical problems that plagued the B738. The flight ended up departing KIN at 7:53 pm........
'' At least 12 American Airlines passengers who were scheduled to depart the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston to Miami, this evening refused to board the aircraft which had mechanical and electrical problems earlier today.
Flight AA2038 was scheduled to depart at 8:45 this morning, but never left until 7:53 p.m. ''
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 108, posted (1 year 3 weeks 1 day 12 hours ago) and read 9570 times:
Guys, B6 will commence service on the KIN-FLL leg on Mon....At first the loads were low in the single digits, but I just checked and the loads are now over 60%....I can tell this route is poised for success...
Last year, Jamaica welcomed more than 16,000 Latin American visitors with the majority coming from markets such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Panama.
In December alone, Jamaica recorded a 36.6-percent increase in visitor arrivals, attributable in part to the new airlift from Copa Airlines, which started that month.
The Jamaica Tourist Board also credits the increase to the lifting of visa restrictions for travelers from Panama, Venezuela, and Colombia. Expectations are that this will result in continued growth from this market in 2012.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 109, posted (1 year 3 weeks 2 hours ago) and read 9462 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 108): B6 will commence service on the KIN-FLL leg on Mon....At first the loads were low in the single digits, but I just checked and the loads are now over 60%....I can tell this route is poised for success...
There is a lot of buzz here regarding this new B6 link to Jamaica. Not bad loads for an E190 inaugural service on that short sector. I also note that they reported very strong 1 Q results, so despite all the challenges facing the industry things are happening for them. Expecting those FLL-KIN loads to gradually increase.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 108): Last year, Jamaica welcomed more than 16,000 Latin American visitors with the majority coming from markets such as Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia, Ecuador, Mexico and Panama.
In December alone, Jamaica recorded a 36.6-percent increase in visitor arrivals, attributable in part to the new airlift from Copa Airlines, which started that month.
The Jamaica Tourist Board also credits the increase to the lifting of visa restrictions for travelers from Panama, Venezuela, and Colombia. Expectations are that this will result in continued growth from this market in 2012.
This is good ( and welcome ) news as well. Let us hope that this positive trend from those ( and other ) Latin American territories continue.
The editorial cartoon below gave me a good weekend laugh.................
Nowadays I just sit back and enjoy this extended '' comedy ''
What is interesting is how segregated the comments on CALs KIN base are. Many comments on the other side where Jcan posters do not comment. TRini posters do not comment here so the conversation occurs in two very different worlds.
Some on the other side deny that there is a problem with the KIN base, and alternatively (some times the same poster) deny that Jcans arent enthused with CAL, but then exclaim that if Jcans dont like what CAL is doing they are "cutting their noses to spite their face"......as if KIN will suffer with the demise of the CAL KIN base.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 111, posted (1 year 2 weeks 6 days 14 hours ago) and read 9355 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 109): There is a lot of buzz here regarding this new B6 link to Jamaica. Not bad loads for an E190 inaugural service on that short sector. I also note that they reported very strong 1 Q results, so despite all the challenges facing the industry things are happening for them. Expecting those FLL-KIN loads to gradually increase.
First flight is now full,second flight should fill by Sunday..
I hope they continue with their expansion...I forsee them going to SJU to replace Eagle..At least for me this means more places to travel....
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 109): This is good ( and welcome ) news as well. Let us hope that this positive trend from those ( and other ) Latin American territories continue.
Indeed.....
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 109): The editorial cartoon below gave me a good weekend laugh.................
Quoting guyanam (Reply 110): What is interesting is how segregated the comments on CALs KIN base are. Many comments on the other side where Jcan posters do not comment. TRini posters do not comment here so the conversation occurs in two very different worlds.
Some on the other side deny that there is a problem with the KIN base, and alternatively (some times the same poster) deny that Jcans arent enthused with CAL, but then exclaim that if Jcans dont like what CAL is doing they are "cutting their noses to spite their face"......as if KIN will suffer with the demise of the CAL KIN base.
I have gone past the days of arguing, take a look at whats happening with this whole ordeal....KIN has grown to their demise...
Plans are in place to develop KIN as tourist destination with international appeal..
Minister of Tourism and Entertainment Dr Wykeham McNeill has revealed that the ministry will be working with stakeholders to develop Kingston into a major tourist destination with international appeal.
This was outlined as the ministry held its first meeting with Kingston tourism stakeholders on April 18, at The Jamaica Pegasus hotel. This was the latest in a series of meetings being organised by the ministry to provide McNeill and Minister of State Damion Crawford with the opportunity to meet and have solution-oriented discussions with stakeholders and industry partners. Similar meetings have been held in Negril, Ocho Rios, and along the south coast.
beeweel15 From United States of America, joined Nov 2003, 1693 posts, RR: 0 Reply 112, posted (1 year 2 weeks 6 days 3 hours ago) and read 9276 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 110):
What is interesting is how segregated the comments on CALs KIN base are. Many comments on the other side where Jcan posters do not comment. TRini posters do not comment here so the conversation occurs in two very different worlds.
Some on the other side deny that there is a problem with the KIN base, and alternatively (some times the same poster) deny that Jcans arent enthused with CAL, but then exclaim that if Jcans dont like what CAL is doing they are "cutting their noses to spite their face"......as if KIN will suffer with the demise of the CAL KIN base.
Well Guyanam in the beginning there was one Caribbean Group here to discuss and talk about Caribbean Aviation which focused on the Whole Caribbean. However one of the main contributors to the this area was not satisfied i guess that Jamaica was not discussed enough or was willing to hear the truth on what was happening to JM and Jamaican aviation and decided to start this group focused only on Jamaica.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 111): take a look at whats happening with this whole ordeal...
Time will ultimately tell. If what Mr. Lalor disclosed recently is indeed factual ( and personally I don't know why he would make such disclosures to the media etc. if it wasn't ) then naturally it will be cause for concern. What I do know, is that the KIN market is competitive ( as we have said countless times before ) and will get even more competitive next week Monday, when both WS and B6 inaugurate their YYZ-KIN and FLL-KIN flights respectively. Let the games begin !
The way I also see it was a lot of flag waving by the T&T faction not willing to listen to views of people from other parts of the Caribbean. Their assertion about how Guyanese "loved" BWIA and now "love" CAl when every opinion expressed from the president down to the ordinary Guyanese traveler says otherwise. And their reaction when it was pointed out to them that Guyanese hated BWIA and arent especially in love with CAL either, but lack alternatives.
Why would Guyanese have loved BWIA when subject to horrendous treatment? The ghost of which emerged with CAL during the last summer fiasco when Guyanese were ignored for days and ended up having to seize an aircarft before being listened to. This not being the fault of the local staff, youtube videos showing them literally begging Piarco to release an airacft for GEO a sthey had begun to fear for their sanity and maytbe even their safety.
No it was the Gods of Piarco...who displayed similar arrogance to Jamaicans last summer when dozens of flighst were canceled/delayed and local staff not informed of the alternative arrangement to faciliatte these travelers. Some of these posters almost blamed the Jcan passengers who were stranded. Priority was given to POS.
So POS pays the bills we understand but people should not have cows when Jcans and Guyanese complained of being treated like stray dogs. CAL charged these p[assengers good money so should have given them the same respect that it gave POS bound passengers.
These same posters chose to ignore what a CAL board of directors himself said. Jamaicans are ignoring CAL and this is causing problems with the KIN base as load factors in soft periods are below expectations. It is quite likely that the reactioin of Jcans to CAL came right out of their experiences last summer and they expressed their views on the AJ facebook page.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 115, posted (1 year 2 weeks 5 days 22 hours ago) and read 9212 times:
I don't know what to believe and what not with Caribbean Airlines and Air Jamaica. Is it that bad or not? If it was that bad, why is the first ATR72-600 now painted in the Air Jamaica livery? I'm really confused here.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 113): Time will ultimately tell. If what Mr. Lalor disclosed recently is indeed factual ( and personally I don't know why he would make such disclosures to the media etc. if it wasn't ) then naturally it will be cause for concern. What I do know, is that the KIN market is competitive ( as we have said countless times before ) and will get even more competitive next week Monday, when both WS and B6 inaugurate their YYZ-KIN and FLL-KIN flights respectively. Let the games begin !
Quoting A388 (Reply 115): I don't know what to believe and what not with Caribbean Airlines and Air Jamaica. Is it that bad or not? If it was that bad, why is the first ATR72-600 now painted in the Air Jamaica livery? I'm really confused here.
A388
Perhaps, they will use it for regional flights from KIN..But, for what its worth, it will always use a BW callsign....
Don't stop and think only Jamaican and Guyanese have gone through the so called bad service many trini people go through it also. I myself have experienced it and as a 1st class pax also. As for the flag waving by Trini folks is not about not listening to other folks is that when the truth was said or predicted the fact is others refused to listen and accept it.
Sadly Trinidad is in a bad position cause they are dammed if they do and dammed if they dont cause I am certain if Trinidad and CAL did not step in to do anything with JM and let it die there would be a whole lot of Trinidad being anti Caribbean. And I have seen it over the years when Trinidad dont help or give money they get criticized and when they do the opposite they get criticized.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 118, posted (1 year 2 weeks 4 days 23 hours ago) and read 9019 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 116): Heads up guys..A UA B739 is now enroute to KIN from BDA..The aircraft will continue to MIA from KIN..
What is the purpose of this unusual routing with the B739 by UA ?
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 116): But, for what its worth, it will always use a BW callsign....
........in addition to virtually everything else. Therefore the depiction on the outside of that aircraft is neither here nor there.
*** Seem Saturday was quite busy at MBJ. US had 3 flights from PHL and 4 from CLT. B6 had 2 from JFK, 2 from BOS and 1 from MCO. AC had 1 from YYZ and 1 from YUL. Plus WS had several from various cities. All this in addition to the usual traffic.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 119, posted (1 year 2 weeks 4 days 11 hours ago) and read 8841 times:
Today is the 'big day" guys, KIN will create history with 3 inaugural flights in one day..
The two B6 services which were showing 90s load on the E190 has been upgraded to an A320...Based on what I was told at a recent event, B6 is determined to win over the local crowd on this sector..
B6 will offer unlimited free movies, unlimited food and beverage including the infamous "Blue Chips" and to top things off their Jetblue Inflight Experience..
The WS service is scheduled to depart YYZ at 9:00am..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 118): What is the purpose of this unusual routing with the B739 by UA ?
Perhaps, it was a charter..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 118): *** Seem Saturday was quite busy at MBJ. US had 3 flights from PHL and 4 from CLT. B6 had 2 from JFK, 2 from BOS and 1 from MCO. AC had 1 from YYZ and 1 from YUL. Plus WS had several from various cities. All this in addition to the usual traffic.
Impressive..This was the last week of the winter season..
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 120, posted (1 year 2 weeks 3 days 20 hours ago) and read 8744 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 116): Perhaps, they will use it for regional flights from KIN..But, for what its worth, it will always use a BW callsign....
I know that but how bad is the situation really between Caribbean Airlines and Air Jamaica? Logical thinking would suggest that if the situation really was that bad Caribbean Airlines wouldn't send a brandnew aircraft to Air Jamaica...?
I agree 100% why would they paint the ATR in JM colours?? Very confusing, but someone on the other thread said JM is not being let go and I trust his posts.
I was in POS on 4/18 and was treated exactly the same way. Very simple, teach their ground staff to treat customers well. Have someone at the elevator to let pax up as they arrive. I mean CAL can't afford a ground staff to man/woman the elevator???
And this is why when some posters here stated categorically that "Guyanese love BWIA/CAL" , I had to correct tham. Then some screamed that I had a personal vendetta against that airline.
If CAL doesnt serve Guyanese (and Jamaicans) properly some one else will. Indeed while the intransit situation might not be totally the fault of CAL they have enough clout with the airport and immigration/customs authorities to have a redesign to accomodate teh scores of Guyanese intransit to/from Guynaa. They are a large state owned entity and generate the largets source of revebues for Piarco, And indeed the only reason why POS is a hub is because of GEO and to a lesser degree PBM and GND. No one else needs POS as a hub.
trintocan From United Kingdom, joined Apr 2000, 3191 posts, RR: 4 Reply 123, posted (1 year 2 weeks 2 days 23 hours ago) and read 8605 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 121):
I mean it's just marketing 101 with CAL, doesn't take a rocket scientist to solve their image problem. Take for example the following letter:
I was in POS on 4/18 and was treated exactly the same way. Very simple, teach their ground staff to treat customers well. Have someone at the elevator to let pax up as they arrive. I mean CAL can't afford a ground staff to man/woman the elevator???
That's shocking to read. Really POS need to get their act together. While we all tend to disagree on some contentious issues, I think we can all agree on this one. No passenger on any airline or transiting any airport in Caricom should be treated with such disrespect. Also, if POS is to continue to serve as a transfer hub, better elevators appear to be needed. I will concede that I have never transited POS between international flights and thus have not seen the set-up but come on, facilitating transit passengers is only sensible in improving the airport's image and ensuring better traffic flows now and in the future. I will also concede that the AATT rather than BW would be the ones responsible for staffing the elevator.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 124, posted (1 year 2 weeks 2 days 23 hours ago) and read 8610 times:
NEW YORK, USA — More than a year after the divestment of their Air Jamaica, many Jamaicans here remain upset over the sale, with more joining the ranks of those who have decided not to fly with the Trinidad-based Caribbean Airline, which acquired the national carrier.
For many of those who have made that decision, though, it is the quality of the service by Caribbean Airlines that seems to have opened fresh wounds of anger and disappointment.
Claims of delays, long waits and lack of communication have been made by many persons who have travelled on the airline in recent times.
Reports of the pending cut of a number of Jamaican pilots and the dropping of the use of the Air Jamaica name, have also only added fuel anger.
Dr. Guy noted that the decision by WestJet to flight to Kingston comes at a time when Jamaica will be welcoming overseas nationals and visitors for the 50th year of Independence celebrations.
“This new route also signals the building of better connectivity between the two cities, and an expansion of opportunities for Jamaicans living in Canada to return home in a convenient manner and time, and to partner with us in building this great nation,” he said.
Mayor of Kingston and St. Andrew, Councillor Angela Brown-Burke, also welcomed WestJet into Kingston, noting that the airline will not only bring nationals home for ‘Jamaica 50’ but also for the City of Kingston’s 140th anniversary events. http://www.jis.gov.jm/news/leads-113/30445
inister of Tourism and Entertainment, the Hon. Dr. Wykeham McNeill, yesterday welcomed one of Canada’s leading airlines, WestJet, to Kingston.
WestJet, which had some 27 flights per week into Montego Bay from Canada at the peak of the winter tourist season plans to fly to Kingston three times per week, providing over 6000 seats for summer 2012.
Onboard the inaugural flight were 10 travel agents and two journalists who will spend a few days in the island touring Kingston and Portland, as part of the marketing efforts of the Jamaica Tourist Board, JTB, to highlight the island’s tourism offerings to Canadians.
Quoting A388 (Reply 120): Logical thinking would suggest that if the situation really was that bad Caribbean Airlines wouldn't send a brandnew aircraft to Air Jamaica...?
A388
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 121): I agree 100% why would they paint the ATR in JM colours?? Very confusing, but someone on the other thread said JM is not being let go and I trust his posts.
This is how I view the situation and is one reason why BW will continue to loose customers in the Jamaican market..
The planes only carry the JM colors, yet everything else is representative of BW....
Quoting guyanam (Reply 122):
If CAL doesnt serve Guyanese (and Jamaicans) properly some one else will
Mark my word, B6 is getting ready to expand to GEO...They are waiting to acquire the sharklet fitted A320s and to finalize certain logistics to seal the deal...
GUYAIR707 From Guyana, joined Jan 2011, 562 posts, RR: 0 Reply 125, posted (1 year 2 weeks 2 days 22 hours ago) and read 8586 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 124): Mark my word, B6 is getting ready to expand to GEO...They are waiting to acquire the sharklet fitted A320s and to finalize certain logistics to seal the deal...
yellowtail From United States of America, joined Jun 2005, 5145 posts, RR: 2 Reply 126, posted (1 year 2 weeks 2 days 19 hours ago) and read 8553 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 125): Quoting hummingbird (Reply 124):
Mark my word, B6 is getting ready to expand to GEO...They are waiting to acquire the sharklet fitted A320s and to finalize certain logistics to seal the deal...
Then that means it is still a few years off for B6.
When in doubt, hold on to your altitude. No-one has ever collided with the sky.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 127, posted (1 year 2 weeks 2 days 4 hours ago) and read 8518 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 124): This is how I view the situation and is one reason why BW will continue to loose customers in the Jamaican market..
The planes only carry the JM colors, yet everything else is representative of BW....
Again I ask my question for the third time: Why invest in the new "Air Jamaica" with brandnew aircraft if the situation between Caribbean Airlines and the new "Air Jamaica" is supposedly soo bad as is claimed here???
Most Guyanese consider Piarco to be the gateway to hell. Maybe thats why EZjet appears to be doing well as most Guyanese probably dont know that CAL now offers nonstops to GEO, so they jump on them to avoid Piarco. If a donkey cart starts service on the YYZ GEO they will beat CAL as it allows Piarco to be bypassed
While AATT and the T&T customs/immigration are mainly responsible its CAL who ought to be forcing them to fix the problem....and communicating to Guyanese their effortsto do so if these entities are dragging their feet its they and not CAL who gets the blame. If AATT wants POS to be ahub they need to make it one easy to use for intransits.
Well ANOTHER article pointing out Jcan attitudes to CAL. Even those who were willing to give them a chance are now frustrated and are juping on other airlines.
Why JM on the ATR. Oh well the big boys at Piarco are in a fantasy when it comes to their non Trinidadianj customers. Like allowing THEIR passengers to be squeezed on to tiny elevators while intransiting to/from GEO, at times when as many as 100 passengers might be doing so.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 129, posted (1 year 2 weeks 1 day 23 hours ago) and read 8425 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 128): Well ANOTHER article pointing out Jcan attitudes to CAL. Even those who were willing to give them a chance are now frustrated and are juping on other airlines.
Why JM on the ATR. Oh well the big boys at Piarco are in a fantasy when it comes to their non Trinidadianj customers. Like allowing THEIR passengers to be squeezed on to tiny elevators while intransiting to/from GEO, at times when as many as 100 passengers might be doing so.
I will ask my question again for the fourth time, can anyone explain why Caribbean Airlines is sending brandnew aircraft to Air Jamaica?
GUYAIR707 From Guyana, joined Jan 2011, 562 posts, RR: 0 Reply 130, posted (1 year 2 weeks 1 day 8 hours ago) and read 8317 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 128): If a donkey cart starts service on the YYZ GEO they will beat CAL as it allows Piarco to be bypassed
YYZ-GEO will now be an important run what with Reunion from Quebec starting to mine for Manganese, and U308 from Toronto looking to mine for Uranium. Not to mention CGX being Toronto based,
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 131, posted (1 year 2 weeks 1 day ago) and read 8227 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 119): The two B6 services which were showing 90s load on the E190 has been upgraded to an A320...Based on what I was told at a recent event, B6 is determined to win over the local crowd on this sector..
B6 will offer unlimited free movies, unlimited food and beverage including the infamous "Blue Chips" and to top things off their Jetblue Inflight Experience..
Was expecting them to upgrade sooner than later. They will play on their strengths. ( very competitive fares and a good inflight product )
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 119): The WS service is scheduled to depart YYZ at 9:00am..
Wonder what their forward bookings to KIN look like so far ? From what I have observed in the past, their fares do not seem very competitive to me when compared with the likes of AC etc. At least for the ones I was comparing ( Between MBJ-YYZ and more recently KIN-YYZ )
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 121): Very confusing, but someone on the other thread said JM is not being let go and I trust his posts.
Though Mr. Lalor did not specifically state that the '' JM '' brand will go per say, he did clearly detail the situation with their KIN ops and the reaction of the majority within the diaspora, and other concerns. As I stated in a previous post, time will be the ultimate factor here to see how they fare off in KIN, particularly as this market is fiercely competitive, when compared with some others in the region. To be honest, I am far more inclined to trust what Mr. Lalor disclosed recently, more than what any other poster on this website may choose to write. He is on the local arm of their board, none of us here aren't. Time will tell.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 122): And this is why when some posters here stated categorically that "Guyanese love BWIA/CAL" , I had to correct tham. Then some screamed that I had a personal vendetta against that airline.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 128): If a donkey cart starts service on the YYZ GEO they will beat CAL as it allows Piarco to be bypassed
Lol....
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 124): Wykeham McNeill, yesterday welcomed one of Canada's leading airlines, WestJet, to Kingston.
Thought they would have highlighted B6's new FLL-KIN service on the television as well. But only saw coverage of WS's YYZ-KIN inaugural. Seem on some days B6's pm flight operate with an A320, while it utilize the E190 on others. I was told that they had to substitute one of Monday's inaugural flight as the original aircraft scheduled for the service went tech. Not certain if it was the early morning flight or the late evening one, but a quick replacement was arranged and the flight landed in KIN on time as scheduled.
'' Brand Jamaica '' will be in the spotlight again in Chicago at the International Festival Of Life ( IFOL ) event during the July 04th holiday weekend.
'' The Festival of Life will feature a pavilion showcasing all things '' Jamaican '' and serving as a road to Jamaica's golden jubilee in August, Martin said, encouraging importers/exporters, hoteliers, shipping services, travel-oriented entrepreneurs and businesses that market Jamaica or Brand Jamaica products to participate. ''
Hopefully this will result in even more visitors from the general Chicago area and its environs jetting down to the island for the '' real deal ''. Seem the seasonal AA charters between ORD-MBJ are doing well based on the frequencies they usually have during the peak winter period. I remember it was once disclosed that no funds was disbursed to AA for this sector as the loads exceeded the agreed minimum that would have otherwise necessitate a pay out to them as per the revenue guarantee arrangement.
The 2011/2012 winter tourist season has officially ended and Jamaica is reporting a 19% increase over last year.....
'' McNeill says the country welcomed a total of 1.34 million visitors.
This comprises 739,000 stopover visitors and just over 610,000 cruise ship passengers. ''
At least it is an increase which is a positive sign. Could have been worst considering the many hurdles the industry face today : APD tax, rising oil prices, etc. Let us hope for even bigger and better results for the 2012/2013 season, and more arrivals from South America.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 132, posted (1 year 2 weeks 18 hours ago) and read 8179 times:
All the hard work has paid off for "Brand Jamaica"..The country recorded a 19% increase in arrivals for 2011..This is a huge accomplishment despite the global economic conditions..Kudos to all those who worked hard to accomplish this huge task..
Against the background of what it says was a challenging period, the Tourism Ministry is boasting of success in visitor arrivals from the just concluded Winter Tourist period. The period which ended April 15 saw an overall increase of 19 point 9 percent in total visitor arrivals compared with the corresponding period last year.
Tourism Minister Dr Wykeham McNeill called a press conference to give an update on the sector Thursday morning. Based on provisional estimates, Dr McNeill said the almost 20 percent increase is due primarily to a boom in cruise ship and passenger arrivals. That boom grew by 55 percent. Dr McNeill said between January and April there was a one percent increase in stop over arrivals and he gave the reasons for this increase. But it all didn't start good for the sector. Dr McNeil said in January, the first full month of the past season- - there was a 3 percent decline in arrivals compared with last year.
Condor Airlines,which now offers two weekly flights to MBJ from FRA, with a stopover in HOG on one flight..Will now offer dedicated nonstop two weekly services for winter 2012 season.....
Quoting A388 (Reply 127): Caribbean Airlines and the new "Air Jamaica" is supposedly soo bad as is claimed here???
A388
I don't understand what you are trying to imply with your "claimed here" statement..But, for everything that is assumed or claimed, there is always a news article to support this claim...
Quoting A388 (Reply 129): I will ask my question again for the fourth time, can anyone explain why Caribbean Airlines is sending brandnew aircraft to Air Jamaica?
I guess we all have to wait and see...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 131): Wonder what their forward bookings to KIN look like so far ? From what I have observed in the past, their fares do not seem very competitive to me when compared with the likes of AC etc. At least for the ones I was comparing ( Between MBJ-YYZ and more recently KIN-YYZ )
I have access to the loads, but I don't know how to decode the different booking codes..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 131): Thought they would have highlighted B6's new FLL-KIN service on the television as well. But only saw coverage of WS's YYZ-KIN inaugural. Seem on some days B6's pm flight operate with an A320, while it utilize the E190 on others. I was told that they had to substitute one of Monday's inaugural flight as the original aircraft scheduled for the service went tech. Not certain if it was the early morning flight or the late evening one, but a quick replacement was arranged and the flight landed in KIN on time as scheduled.
The weather in FLL was not much help to the situation.....Having been trained on the E190, I will say, Jamaicans will truly appreciate the legroom and the free movies on this short leg..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 131): Hopefully this will result in even more visitors from the general Chicago area and its environs jetting down to the island for the '' real deal ''. Seem the seasonal AA charters between ORD-MBJ are doing well based on the frequencies they usually have during the peak winter period. I remember it was once disclosed that no funds was disbursed to AA for this sector as the loads exceeded the agreed minimum that would have otherwise necessitate a pay out to them as per the revenue guarantee arrangement.
I hope UA will boost services from ORD for the winter to operate at least 4-5 weekly, compared to the current weekly service..
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 133, posted (1 year 2 weeks 9 hours ago) and read 8119 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 132): I don't understand what you are trying to imply with your "claimed here" statement..But, for everything that is assumed or claimed, there is always a news article to support this claim...
Everybody can write articles so I'm not sure what you mean by your reply. The only thing that I am asking and still haven't gotten an answer on is why Caribbean Airlines is sending brandnew aircraft to Air Jamaica if the situation is really that bad. This is what makes me wonder about the "support of the articles"... Nobody has answered my questions, why???What's going on??? I'm still confused about the whole Air Jamaica/Caribbean Airlines. On the other hand the brandnew ATR72 going to Air Jamaica surprises me. The good thing is that Air Jamaica will have brandnew aircraft in their fleet which allows Air Jamaica to be more flexible and start new thinner routes that they previously couldn't. To me that is commitment of Caribbean Airlines to their Air Jamaica operation.
Caymanair From Cayman Islands, joined Apr 2004, 856 posts, RR: 0 Reply 134, posted (1 year 2 weeks 8 hours ago) and read 8094 times:
1) Regardless of the details of the situation it is clear that this BW/ JM set up is not performing to standard. It might be because of issues related to the disarray of BWs management at the moment. Certainly the horrible reception by both employees and the public in Jamaica has had an impact, and their first summer of operation was a disaster.
In my opinion, they should have never touched JM. The airline would have collapsed soon anyway and BW could have stepped in without the hurdles of a hostile labour force, self serving unions, and the stigma of being the company that took JM away from Jamaicans. They also needed to hit the ground running and not with the fits and starts that highlighted the (still ongoing and inconsistent) transition from JM & BW into one BW. The maintenance of the JM brand was a horrible decision.
2) In regards to the private beach issue: suffice to say for smaller islands like Barbados then private beaches should not be allowed. Butch was interested in Cayman for a while as well, but was quickly shot down. Package vacations, all inclusive holidays, and private beaches appeals to a mass market, is more heavily influenced by price concerns, and keeps the benefits of tourism contained in foreign bank accounts. Cayman, for example, should comfortably host 400k stay over per year and no more and like Barbados needs to focus efforts on extracting the most spending from each visitor as opposed to an endless increase in visitors. Less is More. There are also no issues with harassment or anything similar. Locals are important high spending customers for hotels.
3) What is the deal with Fly Jamaica now? They seem to have shut right up... Easter came and went.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 135, posted (1 year 2 weeks 6 hours ago) and read 8076 times:
Quoting Caymanair (Reply 134): In my opinion, they should have never touched JM. The airline would have collapsed soon anyway and BW could have stepped in without the hurdles of a hostile labour force, self serving unions, and the stigma of being the company that took JM away from Jamaicans.
If Caribbean Airlines is not even accepted by Jamaicans through a take-over, how on earth will they be accepted by the same Jamaicans if Air Jamaica goes bankrupt and there is no national airline? Based on what I read here, Caribbean Airlines will never be accepted so why let Air Jamaica die and establish later?
I personally don't understand it why any other foreign airline is accepted but Caribbean Airlines never is or will. If EK or AA would take over Air Jamaica, is that okay? REDJet based in Barbados (as they were not allowed to be headquarted/based in Jamaica) was welcomed with wide open arms but they couldn't even have started flights to the U.S. from Jamaica if they wanted, is that better?
This is not "any one can write articles". This is about comments made by Dennis Lalor. If these comments were not accurately reported he would have demanded a retraction. These comments and other reports that the KIN is under review, in addition to cut back in service ande retrenching of staff all suggest that some thing is up in KIN.
Jcans dont accept CAL becaus ethey offered lousy service last summer and displayed complete disregard for them. And this is seen within the context of other perceived insults by Trinidad companies, the worst being the take over of th Jcan cement mill with an instant serious drop in quality, resulting in massive losses to the constrcution tarde, coupled wioth shortages and attempts to restrict the ability of importers to source elsewhere. There is also the perception that Tdad levies nontariff barriers against Jcan imports while having unrestricted access to the Jcan market. Then of cours ethere have been well publicized incidents of Jcans abused at airports in the E/Cbn.
Jetblue, AC, AA and others dont promote themselves as "we airline". CAL does so is held to higher standards kin how they treat the Jcan traveling public.
The recent adverse publicity created by the dumping ofJcan pilots doesnt help either. If it was "one Caribbean" then Jcans should have been put into the overall pool and if pilots needed to be dumped it shouldnt just have been the Jcan ones. I also dont want to hear aqnything about T&T work rules. If LIAT can have a staff from all parts of the Cabn, inclusive of T&T, than CAL should if they want to claim that they are the "Caribbean Airline". T&T pilots should be stationed in KIN, if needed there as Jcan pilotys couild be in POS if needed there.
It was likely that some might have become reconciled to the CAL take over as most knew full well that AJ was in a dire position and offered atrocious service in its last days. But CAL entered the market and last summer did the same.
Jetblue has a reputaion for reliability into Jca. CAL does not. I am sure they have improved since their summer fiasco but unfortunately first impressions matter.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 137, posted (1 year 2 weeks 1 hour ago) and read 8001 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 132): Condor Airlines,which now offers two weekly flights to MBJ from FRA, with a stopover in HOG on one flight..Will now offer dedicated nonstop two weekly services for winter 2012 season.....
Good that DE will be operating FRA-MBJ 2x weekly nonstop. I heard on the news yesterday that flights between SVO-MBJ could soon become a reality with SU. Guess this will be operated with the B763 or A332/A333. Looking forward to that new service.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 132): The weather in FLL was not much help to the situation.....Having been trained on the E190, I will say, Jamaicans will truly appreciate the legroom and the free movies on this short leg..
Many locals will be pleasantly surprised by the comfort of B6's E190s. Having experienced them on two return trips last year, it was quite impressive. Looking forward to flying on them again soon I hope.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 136): Jetblue has a reputaion for reliability into Jca.
Very true. Everyone I know here who tried them out for the first time, has been hooked to them ever since. They do make much of that carrier here, which explains part of the reason why they are so successful in the Jamaican market.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 138, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 21 hours ago) and read 7965 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 136): These comments and other reports that the KIN is under review, in addition to cut back in service ande retrenching of staff all suggest that some thing is up in KIN.
Okay that is being said but why can't anyone explain why Caribbean Airlines is sending brandnew aircraft to Air Jamaica if the situation is that bad? Nobody seems to have an answer to that which, rightfully, let's one wonder what is really going on? How bad is the situation really?
Quoting guyanam (Reply 136): Jcans dont accept CAL becaus ethey offered lousy service last summer and displayed complete disregard for them.
So will Jamaicans accept Caribbean Airlines if they don't offer lousy service?
Quoting guyanam (Reply 136): Jetblue has a reputaion for reliability into Jca. CAL does not. I am sure they have improved since their summer fiasco but unfortunately first impressions matter.
Was Air Jamaica very reliable when it was still a Jamaican-owned national airline?
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 139, posted (1 year 1 week 6 days 3 hours ago) and read 7870 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 133): The only thing that I am asking and still haven't gotten an answer on is why Caribbean Airlines is sending brandnew aircraft to Air Jamaica if the situation is really that bad. This is what makes me wonder about the "support of the articles"... Nobody has answered my questions, why???What's going on??? I'm still confused about the whole Air Jamaica/Caribbean Airlines.
Quoting A388 (Reply 138): Okay that is being said but why can't anyone explain why Caribbean Airlines is sending brandnew aircraft to Air Jamaica if the situation is that bad? Nobody seems to have an answer to that which, rightfully, let's one wonder what is really going on? How bad is the situation really?
There has not been a press release from BW stating whether, the ATR in JM colours will be sent to Jamaica..For, now, its pure speculation...
To answer your question about the state of the company, they are bleeding cash bad..
Quote: Caribbean Airlines Ltd (CAL) recorded a consolidated unaudited loss of US$52.8 million (TT$339.5 million) for 2011, while Air Jamaica recorded an unaudited loss of US$38.1 million (TT$ 245.2 million).
This is what Finance Minister Winston Dookeran told the House of Representatives yesterday. The Minister's statement puts into serious question the claim of the airline's profit made by former CAL chairman George Nicholas, who had stated last November that CAL raked in a $200 million profit for 2011 and that Air Jamaica, after the merger, had also made its first ever consecutive profit in its 50-year history.
Quoting A388 (Reply 133): The good thing is that Air Jamaica will have brandnew aircraft in their fleet which allows Air Jamaica to be more flexible and start new thinner routes that they previously couldn't. To me that is commitment of Caribbean Airlines to their Air Jamaica operation.
Yeah, but in reality, there is no Air Jamaica.....
Quoting A388 (Reply 135): If Caribbean Airlines is not even accepted by Jamaicans through a take-over, how on earth will they be accepted by the same Jamaicans if Air Jamaica goes bankrupt and there is no national airline? Based on what I read here, Caribbean Airlines will never be accepted so why let Air Jamaica die and establish later?
I personally don't understand it why any other foreign airline is accepted but Caribbean Airlines never is or will. If EK or AA would take over Air Jamaica, is that okay? REDJet based in Barbados (as they were not allowed to be headquarted/based in Jamaica) was welcomed with wide open arms but they couldn't even have started flights to the U.S. from Jamaica if they wanted, is that better?
This topic has been far too repetitive..But to answer your question, the current transition was predicted from the onset and I believe, people spend way too much time, trying to finger point Jamaicans for not supporting the BW/JM deal..At the end of the day, while people waste time criticizing Jamaicans, other carriers are taking notice and expanding their operations in KIN..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 137): Good that DE will be operating FRA-MBJ 2x weekly nonstop. I heard on the news yesterday that flights between SVO-MBJ could soon become a reality with SU. Guess this will be operated with the B763 or A332/A333. Looking forward to that new service.
I figure the A330 will be doing the trip due to the powerful engines..The runway length at MBJ may be a hindering factor for the B763...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 137): Very true. Everyone I know here who tried them out for the first time, has been hooked to them ever since. They do make much of that carrier here, which explains part of the reason why they are so successful in the Jamaican market.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 140, posted (1 year 1 week 5 days 23 hours ago) and read 7827 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 139): There has not been a press release from BW stating whether, the ATR in JM colours will be sent to Jamaica..For, now, its pure speculation...
I assume an aircraft is not painted for an airline if the aircraft isn't going to the airline it is painted for...
In this case, the topic is too repetitive because no answer can be given to my question regarding the brandnew ATR72 painted in Air Jamaica colors and no answer can be given when asking if Jamaicans would accept any other foreign airline or not but Caribbean Airlines obviously is not accepted at all.
With regards to the airline bleeding money, this is the case with all merger. There is no way that a merged airline can make a profit in the first year or two of the new combined operations. Usually the airline that is being taken over or merged, isn't doing well so a lot has be re-organized and cut to make it break even in the first two years, let alone make a profit.
If the brandnew ATR72 is eventually not going to Air Jamaica, obviously, I rest my case and stand corrected but I haven't heard this so far. In any case, if an airline is sending brandnew aircraft to the airline it has taken over, that shows commitment to me.
Amen! That dead horse has been flogged over and over and over! At the end of the day whoever feel the need to fly other carriers for whatever reason will do so, and whoever sticks with BW will do so as well. Time to let the chips fall where they may. Its not as if they affect the price of oil!
Quoting A388 (Reply 140): I assume an aircraft is not painted for an airline if the aircraft isn't going to the airline it is painted for...
Remember that BW rotates its aircraft all over its route network irrespective of livery, so the fact that an aircraft is painted in "JM" colours does not mean the aircraft is For the Jamaican operation or will be based in Jamaica.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 142, posted (1 year 1 week 5 days 15 hours ago) and read 7720 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 140): With regards to the airline bleeding money, this is the case with all merger. There is no way that a merged airline can make a profit in the first year or two of the new combined operations. Usually the airline that is being taken over or merged, isn't doing well so a lot has be re-organized and cut to make it break even in the first two years, let alone make a profit.
Seem Mr. Nicholas and some other posters on this website wasn't aware of that, based on what they were saying previously where profits were concerned.
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 141): That dead horse has been flogged over and over and over!
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 141): Time to let the chips fall where they may.
I agree 100%.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 139): There has not been a press release from BW stating whether, the ATR in JM colours will be sent to Jamaica..For, now, its pure speculation...
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 141): Remember that BW rotates its aircraft all over its route network irrespective of livery, so the fact that an aircraft is painted in "JM" colours does not mean the aircraft is For the Jamaican operation or will be based in Jamaica.
True. Even recently there was a poster who noted that he was in POS and there were several '' JM '' aircraft parked there, all of which were heading to point ( s ) in the USA, Canada and elsewhere from there. Likewise the opposite situation must exist in KIN at times with many '' BW '' aircraft parked there, heading to MBJ, JFK, FLL, PHL, MCO, NAS & YYZ.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 144, posted (1 year 1 week 5 days 6 hours ago) and read 7628 times:
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 141): Remember that BW rotates its aircraft all over its route network irrespective of livery, so the fact that an aircraft is painted in "JM" colours does not mean the aircraft is For the Jamaican operation or will be based in Jamaica.
Also remember that we are talking about the ATR72 here and the 738 which can rotate between POS and Jamaica easily due to its range. The ATR72 can't be rotated in this way unless they want to fly between Jamaica and Trinidad with two to three stops in between. The ATR72 as a regional turboprop will be flying short regional (and maybe even thin) routes from either Jamaica or Trinidad. It will be difficult to rotate between these two islands with the ATR72.
LimaMike From Jamaica, joined Feb 2006, 224 posts, RR: 0 Reply 145, posted (1 year 1 week 5 days 5 hours ago) and read 7603 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 144): Also remember that we are talking about the ATR72 here and the 738 which can rotate between POS and Jamaica easily due to its range. The ATR72 can't be rotated in this way unless they want to fly between Jamaica and Trinidad with two to three stops in between. The ATR72 as a regional turboprop will be flying short regional (and maybe even thin) routes from either Jamaica or Trinidad. It will be difficult to rotate between these two islands with the ATR72.
Very well, but I simply made the point that I did in reference to you alluding to the fact that BW has painted one of its ATR72 in "JM" colours as evidence of their "commitment" to their Jamaican operations or that their operations are doing better than articulated. My point was simply that BW has a habit of rotating aircraft regardless of the paint scheme, plus no one seem to have a complete grasp of what the "masterplan" is therefore the act of painting an aircraft should not be taken to mean more than it is.
Either way, from a strategic or operational perspective, the fact that BW supposedly will "allocate" an ATR to "JM" does not register on Jamaicans' seismic radar, and as far as the operations go there's much more to occupy attention than what colour BW paint its planes. Really, its time to let this one go. Wherever it wants to.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, RR: 13 Reply 146, posted (1 year 1 week 4 days 9 hours ago) and read 7490 times:
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 145): or that their operations are doing better than articulated.
Don't know where you got that but I didn't say or imply this.
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 145): "JM" colours as evidence of their "commitment" to their Jamaican operations
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 145): My point was simply that BW has a habit of rotating aircraft regardless of the paint scheme, plus no one seem to have a complete grasp of what the "masterplan" is therefore the act of painting an aircraft should not be taken to mean more than it is.
Point taken, we see where it all ends, as you say. I'm still confused regarding the Air Jamaica/Caribbean Airlines condition and I still hope they will survive and become a healthy airline for Jamaica and Trinidad.
jm079 From Jamaica, joined Jan 2008, 2253 posts, RR: 0 Reply 147, posted (1 year 1 week 3 days 23 hours ago) and read 7420 times:
[quote=hummingbird,reply=119][/quoted
WS service to KIN is seasonally and will end on 21 Sept but I understand that they will assess how the route perform at the end of summer and we will know if it will resume next spring.
Great to see another Canadian carrier adding capacity to KIN.
BTW; Both KIN and MBJ will finally get new control towers and Nov 2012 is the delivery date.
LimaMike From Jamaica, joined Feb 2006, 224 posts, RR: 0 Reply 148, posted (1 year 1 week 3 days 16 hours ago) and read 7365 times:
Noticed that BW has re-instated BW31 which was previously axed in a move which reduced KIN-FLL to only 2x daily, with the first flight being a late morning departure. I recall some of us had lamented the decision to axe this flight, arguing that BW would've been ceding too much strategic advantages to its competitors by not having any early morning flights into FLL/MIA while AA would've had two, and B6 one. While others had contended that BW cutting the flight was a prudent financial decision because of poor loads, its funny that the airline has instead come full circle in deciding to reinstate the flight so quickly, albeit an hour later than the previous schedule. The flight now departs at 7am.
So on some days with BW 3x daily, B6 2x, and NK 1x, KIN-FLL has 6 flights! Add AA 4x daily to MIA and South Florida is well served.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 149, posted (1 year 1 week 3 days 1 hour ago) and read 7285 times:
Quoting Caymanair (Reply 143): If BW leaves KIN-NAS, what will the remaining service options be?
AA/MQ - KIN-MIA-NAS
NK - KIN-FLL-NAS
B6 - KIN-FLL-NAS
Of course the above options would not be the most ideal, with visa requirements and connection. Maybe UP would decide to fill the void ( ? ) They did express interest in flying the NAS-KIN route a few years ago I recall but then changed their minds.
Quoting jm079 (Reply 147): WS service to KIN is seasonally and will end on 21 Sept but I understand that they will assess how the route perform at the end of summer and we will know if it will resume next spring.
Great to see another Canadian carrier adding capacity to KIN.
Eager to see the results of their performance after the specified period has ended. So far this year we have WS adding YYZ-KIN, B6 adding FLL-KIN and BA upping LGW-KIN to 3x weekly. Not bad for the airport indeed.
Quoting jm079 (Reply 147): BTW; Both KIN and MBJ will finally get new control towers and Nov 2012 is the delivery date.
Finally. Hopefully the construction of both towers will be completed as scheduled. Can't wait to see them.
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 148): Noticed that BW has re-instated BW31 which was previously axed in a move which reduced KIN-FLL to only 2x daily, with the first flight being a late morning departure. I recall some of us had lamented the decision to axe this flight, arguing that BW would've been ceding too much strategic advantages to its competitors by not having any early morning flights into FLL/MIA while AA would've had two, and B6 one. While others had contended that BW cutting the flight was a prudent financial decision because of poor loads, its funny that the airline has instead come full circle in deciding to reinstate the flight so quickly, albeit an hour later than the previous schedule. The flight now departs at 7am.
Myself took note of that sudden about turn. I can't help but get the feeling it was a knee jerk reaction to B6's entry on the route. After all, only AA and B6 would have had early morning departures to South Florida from KIN, and some travellers started voicing their concerns. So all of a sudden an early morning departure to FLL is once again very important to them. Also note that the return leg operate via MBJ so they will now have 2x daily on the FLL-MBJ sector. This is in addition to NK's service ( not certain what their weekly frequency to MBJ is like now ).
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 148): So on some days with BW 3x daily, B6 2x, and NK 1x, KIN-FLL has 6 flights! Add AA 4x daily to MIA and South Florida is well served.
If Fly Jamaica was operational, that figure would be at least 7x daily on KIN-FLL on some days ! Imagine that would be a total of 11 flights on some days to South Florida from KIN.
And the drama/comedy series continues.....................................
'' Transport Minister Devant Maharaj says Trinidad & Tobago taxpayers have been paying for the luxury of Jamaicans flying at a fuel subsidy as controversy continues over the finances of the state-owned Caribbean Airlines (CAL). ''
'' Nicholas said the Ministry of Finance change on the fuel subsidy affected the airline's profitability and lay blame on Dookeran for the situation. ''
'' He said the subsidy on Air Jamaica should be reviewed. ''
GUYAIR707 From Guyana, joined Jan 2011, 562 posts, RR: 0 Reply 150, posted (1 year 1 week 2 days 23 hours ago) and read 7248 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 149): '' Transport Minister Devant Maharaj says Trinidad & Tobago taxpayers have been paying for the luxury of Jamaicans flying at a fuel subsidy as controversy continues over the finances of the state-owned Caribbean Airlines (CAL). ''
I read this article and it is inappropriate for him to make this statement. CAL bought Air Jamaica as a going business and the risks involved with it. I do not remember anyone entering an agreement as a favour. In addition, CAL and the GORTT has decided to have a fuel subsidy for their own business reasons, he cannot now blame anyone for extending that subsidy to Air Jamaica.
This kind of talk only further alienates the travelling Jamaican public.
Well factually he is correct. Trinis are paying subsidies for travel that they wiil not benefit from, directly or indirectly. Its likely that the average Trini never supported the KIN base for this precise reason.
THis was part of Patrick Manning's empire building. Did CAL have the resources.to turn around an operation that had been a money loser for years, in a market with which they had no experience? Maybe that was wishful thinking.?
Any way the truth is out. Nicholas didnt understand that a fuel subsidy cannot be counted ss part of profits. This is not under the control of CAL and I wasnt of the impression that the subsidies were meant to be permanent.His response just shows why his departure is to be celebrated, though his replacement might be even worse.
Jca isnt going to put money to support the KIN base, so it looks like the stage for its closure is slowly being set. Other carriers have been positioning themselves for this event..
Aeroflot has received permission to fly to Jamaica and is now doing there feasibility studies of doing charters to MBJ.
This was announced in KIN today by Min of Tourism. Ecuador will offer summer charters to MBJ. Virgin will add a third flt to MBJ in November. There will also be charters out of DFW, BNA and CVG.
Removing the fuel subsidy on there Jamaican operation will end any prospect of them gaining any market share or foot hold in Jamaica. On all fronts they are facing some serious competition.
Any new strategy that they are considering evidently must be about being competitive - brand loyalty is not what they have and the threat of removing the subsidy is mere shop talk.
LimaMike From Jamaica, joined Feb 2006, 224 posts, RR: 0 Reply 153, posted (1 year 1 week 2 days 18 hours ago) and read 7192 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 150): I read this article and it is inappropriate for him to make this statement. CAL bought Air Jamaica as a going business and the risks involved with it. I do not remember anyone entering an agreement as a favour. In addition, CAL and the GORTT has decided to have a fuel subsidy for their own business reasons, he cannot now blame anyone for extending that subsidy to Air Jamaica.
To be honest this has been one of my biggest pet peeves in the whole BW/ JM saga. Way too often there have been utterances by some posters/commentators which reveal a sort of thinking that BW entered into this JM deal as a "favour" or charity case. Sure JM had many problems and was no "prized cow" as someone here termed it, and yes it was quite evident that "something" had to be done about the airline's operations, but what really gripes me is the disdain in some of the commentary suggesting that JM was about to be tossed out and as an act of benevolence BW came in and "saved" it to its own peril. BW acquiring JM was about business, and BW must have seen potential value for itself in attempting the merger. So any subsequent difficulties must be accepted and dealt with in accordance with the same business principles which would've informed the decision to proceed with the acquisition in the first place, as opposed to using statements such as T&T taxpayers are paying for the luxury of Jamaicans flying at a fuel subsidy. That is just downright inflammatory and careless, and will only serve to deepen the division and enmity already existing from this circus of a merger.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 151): Well factually he is correct. Trinis are paying subsidies for travel that they wiil not benefit from, directly or indirectly. Its likely that the average Trini never supported the KIN base for this precise reason.
That being said, and however unfortunate this perceived burden on the T&T taxpayer is, neither did the 2.7 million people of Jamaica "request" T&T or BW to come and "save" them. BW went into this affair knowing the risks, and they did so with the support of the T&T government. Had BW not acquired JM life as we all know it would've continued to exist, even if JM was ultimately closed down (granted technically it really was). Time to stop playing the blame game or dangling it like a noose around the necks of the Jamaican flying public.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 154, posted (1 year 1 week 2 days 15 hours ago) and read 7157 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 150): This kind of talk only further alienates the travelling Jamaican public.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 151): Well factually he is correct. Trinis are paying subsidies for travel that they wiil not benefit from, directly or indirectly. Its likely that the average Trini never supported the KIN base for this precise reason.
One would have thought that they knew what they were getting into when they decided to set up shop in KIN. Maybe they did bite off more than they could really chew and are now desperately looking for someone to blame.
Quoting jm079 (Reply 152): Aeroflot has received permission to fly to Jamaica and is now doing there feasibility studies of doing charters to MBJ.
This was announced in KIN today by Min of Tourism. Ecuador will offer summer charters to MBJ. Virgin will add a third flt to MBJ in November. There will also be charters out of DFW, BNA and CVG.
Very interesting days ahead for both MBJ and KIN where airlift is concerned. Good that we will once again see charters from CVG to MBJ as DL discontinued that seasonal sector long ago.
Quoting jm079 (Reply 152): Removing the fuel subsidy on there Jamaican operation will end any prospect of them gaining any market share or foot hold in Jamaica. On all fronts they are facing some serious competition.
Any new strategy that they are considering evidently must be about being competitive - brand loyalty is not what they have and the threat of removing the subsidy is mere shop talk.
Don't see that happening any time soon either. More than likely if the subsidy is removed from their KIN ops, ticket prices would naturally spike upwards to compensate for the shortfall and carriers such as B6 would be more than happy to welcome even more passengers who are price sensitive. A sticky situation for them indeed.
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 153): BW acquiring JM was about business, and BW must have seen potential value for itself in attempting the merger. So any subsequent difficulties must be accepted and dealt with in accordance with the same business principles which would've informed the decision to proceed with the acquisition in the first place, as opposed to using statements such as T&T taxpayers are paying for the luxury of Jamaicans flying at a fuel subsidy.
Well said. Nothing to add or subtract here. That '' luxurious '' comment by Mr. Maharaj is quite nonsensical to me, as it is not only Jamaicans alone who fly on the carrier to/from KIN or MBJ.
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 153): That is just downright inflammatory and careless, and will only serve to deepen the division and enmity already existing from this circus of a merger.
And some people seem baffled as to why this circus is not embraced by many in the diaspora. It is that same type of careless and arrogant behaviour that is partly responsible for some of the problems they are currently facing with the KIN ops. They are doing quite an excellent job though. They should be encouraged to keep it up.
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 153): That being said, and however unfortunate this perceived burden on the T&T taxpayer is, neither did the 2.7 million people of Jamaica "request" T&T or BW to come and "save" them. BW went into this affair knowing the risks, and they did so with the support of the T&T government.
Amen. As if anyone placed a gun at their heads, forcing them into any acquisition deal. They had a choice and opted to attempt exploiting '' lucrative '' JM routes out of Jamaica. Obviously they saw potential opportunity there and decided to give it a shot, with JM being in the situation that they were in. Now they run into problems ( as was predicted from day 1 as KIN and Jamaica to a larger extent is not your typical '' walk in the park '' market ) and instead of dealing with the situation they got themselves into, they are playing the blame game and making all sorts of choice comments, which in reality is not contributing anything to their well being in KIN.
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 153): Had BW not acquired JM life as we all know it would've continued to exist, even if JM was ultimately closed down (granted technically it really was).
Sometime ago there was a delusional comment by one poster that basically implied that Jamaica would have rolled over and die if BW did not step in to '' save '' JM. That comment was subsequently followed by another delusional poster that was of the opinion that where air transportation into/out of Jamaica was concerned, we would be shooting ourselves in the leg should BW end up closing shop in KIN. Obviously they are not aware of the MANY carriers that operate into the island on a regular basis from all the major markets in the USA, Canada, the UK and beyond. Why this misconception that the island would suffer immensely I don't know. The Dominican Republic have a very vibrant tourist industry and also a sizable VFR travel market. Do they have a national carrier ? They did once but not any more. Aren't they doing fine none the less ? Why would Jamaica '' sink '' if BW departed ?
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 153): Time to stop playing the blame game or dangling it like a noose around the necks of the Jamaican flying public.
It would be more prudent for them to focus on correcting the bigger problems that they have on their hands I think, rather than trying to cast blame on Jamaicans for their misfortunes.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 155, posted (1 year 1 week 2 days 9 hours ago) and read 7117 times:
Quoting Caymanair (Reply 143): If BW leaves KIN-NAS, what will the remaining service options be?
Perhaps, Western Air will re-enter the market..
Quoting jm079 (Reply 147): WS service to KIN is seasonally and will end on 21 Sept but I understand that they will assess how the route perform at the end of summer and we will know if it will resume next spring.
Great to see another Canadian carrier adding capacity to KIN.
I have no doubt they will return for the winter season..AC surprisingly has maintained dominance on the route post JM divestment..
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 148): So on some days with BW 3x daily, B6 2x, and NK 1x, KIN-FLL has 6 flights! Add AA 4x daily to MIA and South Florida is well served.
This summer will be a bloodbath for these carriers...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 149): Of course the above options would not be the most ideal, with visa requirements and connection. Maybe UP would decide to fill the void ( ? ) They did express interest in flying the NAS-KIN route a few years ago I recall but then changed their minds.
..
They were getting ready to start service, but decided to cancel when JM announced their intention to re enter the market...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 149): Myself took note of that sudden about turn. I can't help but get the feeling it was a knee jerk reaction to B6's entry on the route. After all, only AA and B6 would have had early morning departures to South Florida from KIN, and some travellers started voicing their concerns. So all of a sudden an early morning departure to FLL is once again very important to them. Also note that the return leg operate via MBJ so they will now have 2x daily on the FLL-MBJ sector. This is in addition to NK's service ( not certain what their weekly frequency to MBJ is like now ).
Another way to dump capacity on the market..I give them less than 3 months before they return to the 2 daily service..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 149): '' Transport Minister Devant Maharaj says Trinidad & Tobago taxpayers have been paying for the luxury of Jamaicans flying at a fuel subsidy as controversy continues over the finances of the state-owned Caribbean Airlines (CAL). ''
I will not sympathize with their loss..They were ready to jump in and convince the public, they would win over the Jamaican crowd...
Quoting guyanam (Reply 151): Jca isnt going to put money to support the KIN base, so it looks like the stage for its closure is slowly being set. Other carriers have been positioning themselves for this event..
Its time they take the bull by the horn and close their Jamaica operations...The honeymoon is over..
Quoting jm079 (Reply 152): Aeroflot has received permission to fly to Jamaica and is now doing there feasibility studies of doing charters to MBJ.
This was announced in KIN today by Min of Tourism. Ecuador will offer summer charters to MBJ. Virgin will add a third flt to MBJ in November. There will also be charters out of DFW, BNA and CVG.
Good news for the Russian market..I hhope to see them soon in MBJ....
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 153): That is just downright inflammatory and careless, and will only serve to deepen the division and enmity already existing from this circus of a merger.
I agree....
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 154): Very interesting days ahead for both MBJ and KIN where airlift is concerned. Good that we will once again see charters from CVG to MBJ as DL discontinued that seasonal sector long ago.
I knew JM operated B727 charters to CVG on a short basis
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 154): And some people seem baffled as to why this circus is not embraced by many in the diaspora. It is that same type of careless and arrogant behaviour that is partly responsible for some of the problems they are currently facing with the KIN ops. They are doing quite an excellent job though. They should be encouraged to keep it up.
I agree..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 154): Sometime ago there was a delusional comment by one poster that basically implied that Jamaica would have rolled over and die if BW did not step in to '' save '' JM. That comment was subsequently followed by another delusional poster that was of the opinion that where air transportation into/out of Jamaica was concerned, we would be shooting ourselves in the leg should BW end up closing shop in KIN. Obviously they are not aware of the MANY carriers that operate into the island on a regular basis from all the major markets in the USA, Canada, the UK and beyond. Why this misconception that the island would suffer immensely I don't know. The Dominican Republic have a very vibrant tourist industry and also a sizable VFR travel market. Do they have a national carrier ? They did once but not any more. Aren't they doing fine none the less ? Why would Jamaica '' sink '' if BW departed ?
I hope the operators of Redjet are now fine tuning their plans for a KIN base..No doubt, Redjet will be well received in Jamaica..
CALs KIN operations were part of Emperor Patrick Manning's empire building. You are perfectly correct that KIN is large enough to attract carriers if JM collapsed. The fcat is that JM had to be closed down as the IMF had been demanding this for years and finally had the leverage to enforce this.Patrick Manning gave Goulding a political expedient way to do so. Neither PM asked their electorate for permission to do so and its clear that neither electorate are happy with this outcome.
It is clear that CAL bit off more than it could chew. It is also clear that CAL didnt follow the advise of the many Jcan posters in the early years who warned that the Brand Caribbean isnt as powerful among Jcans as it is among E/Cbn people for historic reasons.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 158, posted (1 year 1 week 1 day 22 hours ago) and read 7019 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 155): Perhaps, Western Air will re-enter the market..
Was trying to recall the name of this carrier. Wasn't certain if they were still operational.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 155): JM operated B727 charters to CVG on a short basis
I was not even aware of that. Interesting. But come to think of it, I recall viewing a photo in the database of this website with an JM B727 parked at CVG in very snowy conditions, but thought it was a diversion.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 156): KIN is large enough to attract carriers if JM collapsed.
beeweel15 From United States of America, joined Nov 2003, 1693 posts, RR: 0 Reply 159, posted (1 year 1 week 1 day 21 hours ago) and read 7009 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 156): CALs KIN operations were part of Emperor Patrick Manning's empire building.
Why cant we West Indians take a business page from the Airline we are getting the B767-300 from LAN.
LAN consists of 6 air carriers from 5 countries
LAN originally Lan Chilea
LAN Argentina originally Aero 2000
LAN Columbia originally AIRES
LAN Ecuador joint venture by Translloyd (55%) and LAN Airlines (45%)
LAN Express originally Ladeco
LAN Peru joint venture by LAN Airlines (49%), ER Larraín (30%) and Inversiones Aéreas (21%)
No I dont see or hear those folks making noise on who owns the airline like here in the Caribbean. They not only thank Lan from stepping in to save a couple of the airlines mentioned but they support it more knowing a fellow South American stepped up to the plate to help them out.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, RR: 0 Reply 160, posted (1 year 1 week 1 day 12 hours ago) and read 6945 times:
Major changes ahead for BW's Jamaican operations..
Within two weeks action will be taken to stop the haemorrhaging of finances at Caribbean Airlines (CAL), says chairman Rabindra Moonan.
This includes the dropping of unprofitable CAL and Air Jamaica routes.
Maharaj noted that Air Jamaica's director Dennis Lalor was also present at the meeting and he requested that Lalor looks at ways to reduce expenditure with respect to Air Jamaica's operational costs.
LimaMike From Jamaica, joined Feb 2006, 224 posts, RR: 0 Reply 161, posted (1 year 1 week 1 day 5 hours ago) and read 6883 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 160): Major changes ahead for BW's Jamaican operations..
Within two weeks action will be taken to stop the haemorrhaging of finances at Caribbean Airlines (CAL), says chairman Rabindra Moonan.
This includes the dropping of unprofitable CAL and Air Jamaica routes.
Maharaj noted that Air Jamaica's director Dennis Lalor was also present at the meeting and he requested that Lalor looks at ways to reduce expenditure with respect to Air Jamaica's operational costs.
My bet is on JFK, FLL, and YYZ being saved and everything else get axed, including the remaining jobs.
I found that CAL did a good job improving on BWIA, what went wrong with JM? They should have used the same consultants they used when they were changing from BWIA to CAL.
What went wrong is not anticipating resistance from Jcans upset that their "Little Piece of Jamaica" no longer flies, so not ensuring reliable service when CAL formally took over these routes. Cancelations and abominably poor ground service almost as soon as CAL took over was just the thing NOT to do when people were still trying to dcide what to make of this.
Remember CAL succeeded on the backs of strong patriotism from Trinis and limited competition on most POS/GEO routes. The demise of the charters into POS and GEO out of YYZ and JFK due to high fuel prices also helped.
Foreign carriers were already eyeing KIN due to deteriorating performance by JM and quickly jumped in as soon as they sensed that CAL was not fully embraced as a "national" carrier.
SXM is a core CAL route so that should be fine. Its the Jca USA/Bahamas routes that are under scrutiny. Some one said that PHL/NAS will go. Leaving FLL,JFK and YYZ. If those three routes arent profitable than the KIN base will ahve to close.
With Inselair doing KIN CUR I doubt that CAL will servicethat route, espciallyu a sthey dont seem ionterested in doing so from POS.
Until CAL gets its financial house in order I dont see any speculative routes, meaning anything other than core VFR routes. In fact reports are that bookings on the LGW route are slow and they cant get off that route having committed to the 767s. Maybe it will be cut to 5x/week instead of 6x.
In the meantime the delivery of the next 2 ATRs has not occurred as CAL hasnt paid for them. With the current grunts coming out of GoTT they definitely arent interested in pouring more money into KIN, and in fact may be communicating this fact to Jca to get their reaction. It will be recalled that this party was against the KIN base when Manning set out to absorb AJs routes.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2313 posts, RR: 0 Reply 166, posted (1 year 1 week 22 hours ago) and read 6794 times:
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 161): My bet is on JFK, FLL, and YYZ being saved and everything else get axed, including the remaining jobs.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 165): Its the Jca USA/Bahamas routes that are under scrutiny. Some one said that PHL/NAS will go. Leaving FLL,JFK and YYZ. If those three routes arent profitable than the KIN base will ahve to close.
The competitors will not be making it any easier for them should only those three North American routes remain. They will have to tackle DL and B6 on JFK-MBJ, AC and WS on YYZ-KIN, B6 on JFK-KIN, B6 and NK on FLL-KIN and NK on FLL-MBJ. PHL-MBJ shouldn't be a surprise should it get the axe. Recently it was said they would reduce it to 4x per week. Last week Saturday US had 4 flights for the day on that sector !
Quoting guyanam (Reply 165): In fact reports are that bookings on the LGW route are slow and they cant get off that route having committed to the 767s. Maybe it will be cut to 5x/week instead of 6x.
Recently a poster painted quite a contrasting picture of that pending route, so we will see what happen in the near future.
Politicians can say anything they want to say to suite there local population and in this case its a classic case of a politician making empty noise.
<
Sponsor Message: 
From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2881 posts, 
From Guyana, joined Jan 2011, 562 posts, 
From United States of America, joined Mar 2010, 952 posts, 
From Mexico, joined May 2001, 5093 posts, 
From United Kingdom, joined Apr 2000, 3191 posts, 
From Cayman Islands, joined Mar 2012, 45 posts, 
From Trinidad and Tobago, joined Feb 2006, 3346 posts, 
From Canada, joined Jan 2006, 964 posts, 
From Barbados, joined Jul 2011, 405 posts, 
From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9067 posts, 
Time will tell.