hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Posted (1 year 7 hours ago) and read 17286 times:
Welcome Guys,
This thread will feature our neighboring airline, Cayman Airways.
Cayman Airways is the national flag carrier of the Cayman Islands. With it's head office in Grand Cayman, it operates mainly as an international and domestic scheduled passenger carrier, with cargo services available on all routes. Its operations are based at Owen Roberts International Airport in George Town, Grand Cayman.The airline also offers a limited charter service.
Cayman Airways was established and started operations on August 7, 1968. It was formed following the Cayman Government's purchase of 51% of Cayman Brac Airways from LACSA (the Costa Rican flag carrier) and became wholly government owned in December 1977. A few months after it was formed, Cayman Airways flew its first international route to Kingston, Jamaica. The airline acquired its first jet aircraft in 1978 and began services to Houston. In 1982 the airline acquired a Boeing 727-200 aircraft to strengthen the airline's regional and international capability, also allowing for the introduction of first class service. These jets were eventually replaced with Boeing 737-300 series, and during the 1980s Cayman Airways offered scheduled or charter service to Atlanta, Baltimore, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Minneapolis, Newark, New York, Philadelphia, & St. Louis. Today Cayman Airways employs a staff of 300+ with two national and eight international gateways.
As the national flag carrier for the Cayman Islands, Cayman Airways operates non-stop Boeing 737 jet service between Grand Cayman and the following major US cities: Miami and Tampa, Florida; Washington DC; New York, New York; and Chicago, Illinois.
Nonstop jet service is also provided between Grand Cayman and regional destinations, including: Kingston and Montego Bay, Jamaica; Havana, Cuba; and La Ceiba, Honduras.
The airline’s Cayman Airways Express service also operates Twin Otter aircrafts between Grand Cayman and the Sister Islands of Little Cayman and Cayman Brac.
Future routes:
Effective June 23, 2012 – September 2, 2012, Cayman Airways will operate weekly service from Dallas to Grand Cayman on Sunday and from Grand Cayman to Dallas on Saturday..
A twice-weekly direct flight service to Panama on 31 May thru Sep 3..
Operating Mon and Thur..
Current Routes:
Grand Cayman
Cayman Brac
Little Cayman
New York
Washington, D.C
Havana
Kingston
Montego Bay
La Ceiba
Fleet
4 B737-400
2 Twin Otters
Other Updates:
CO will suspend EWR-MBJ in Sept..Service resumes in Nov.
CM looking to increase services to MBJ by year end..PTY-KIN will see an increase to 4 weekly from the existing two..
Sunwing Airlines will launch seasonal flights from BNA and CVG into MBJ..Also, more flights will be added from Canada..
TS and The GOJ has entered in an agreement, where will TS increase flights between Canada and Jamaica..
BW has dropped PHL-MBJ from its network..According to news reports, the JM sale is a burden on their finances.. Rumors are a further downsizing on their operations in Jamaica is on the horizon..
VS to add a 3rd weekly LGW-MBJ flight in Nov..
DE to operate a 2 weekly nonstop FRA-MBJ service for the winter..
AA to reduce its recently added 4 daily MIA-KIN service to 3 in June..
DL to re-launch daily JFK-MBJ service in Dec..
SY to operate a 4 weekly MSP-MBJ service in December..
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 1, posted (1 year 7 hours ago) and read 17296 times:
Quoting jm079 (Reply 200):
Are they planning on returning to KIN from JFK too?
IMHO..They could start services in winter, but to have success on this route, they will have to coordinate some strong promotions in the Tri-State and Kingston area...
AIR Jamaica's divest-ment team is crafting a response to the growing criticisms being levelled at the company and its owners, Caribbean Airlines (CAL).
Recent news out of Trinidad and Tobago, CAL's owner, claims that the company is heavily indebted and that its ownership of Air Jamaica is one of the major contributors.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 2, posted (1 year 6 hours ago) and read 17246 times:
Since when has the Jamaican thread turned into a Caribbean Aviation thread. We have a separate thread for that
In any case, I admire the approach of Cayman Airways to stimulate tourism (stimulate new routes so other airlines can take over the route as soon as it has become popular)
Quoting jm079 (Reply 200): Delta will be going daily - JFK to MBJ effective the fall of 2012.
It was announced on the weekend.
Is this a year round increase or is it just for the busy winter period ?
Quoting jm079 (Reply 200): Are they planning on returning to KIN from JFK too?
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 1): IMHO..They could start services in winter, but to have success on this route, they will have to coordinate some strong promotions in the Tri-State and Kingston area...
This is yet to be seen. But should they decide to, it will only mean an even more competitive KIN market.
Quoting 817Dreamliiner (Reply 3): caught one back in 2008 when I was on may way to FLL:
Great photos. That was shortly after Norman Manley International Airport completed part of its major revamp.
Quoting A388 (Reply 2): Since when has the Jamaican thread turned into a Caribbean Aviation thread. We have a separate thread for that
In the past we have featured many different carriers ( WS, 7I, RD, B6, BW, etc. ) that serve Jamaica, as the theme template for the thread. Don't remember KX being one of them ( maybe I just can't recall ) but it does make for an interesting theme none the less. I like the tail of their current livery.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 5, posted (1 year 4 hours ago) and read 17182 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 4): Don't remember KX being one of them ( maybe I just can't recall ) but it does make for an interesting theme none the less. I like the tail of their current livery.
That is true, I would love to see their Twin Otters. I like their livery too.
817Dreamliiner From Montserrat, joined Jul 2008, 1405 posts, RR: 1 Reply 6, posted (1 year 4 hours ago) and read 17175 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 4): Great photos. That was shortly after Norman Manley International Airport completed part of its major revamp.
Correct, was quite impressed when I saw the improvements that year. Though I do miss the viewing deck, even now, it was always the place I looked forward to going whenever I was in KIN.
[Edited 2012-05-23 07:54:06]
[Edited 2012-05-23 08:03:57]
Blast Reality, Burst it into shreds! Banishment, This World!
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 8, posted (1 year 2 hours ago) and read 17110 times:
Quoting 817Dreamliiner (Reply 6): Correct, was quite impressed when I saw the improvements that year. Though I do miss the viewing deck, ever now, it was always the place I looked forward to going whenever I was in KIN.
Myself was very impressed with the transformation back then as well. I did a Trip Report on my KIN-MBJ-MCO trip in November of that year which highlighted the '' new '' NMIA. Pity there is no observation decks at both KIN and MBJ anymore. Was the place '' to be '' for taking in all the action.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 7): It looks like a daily year round service...
I looked up the schedule up to Feb 2013 and it shows BW and DL @ daily and B6 at 12weekly..
Interesting. The heat is on in MBJ on the JFK-MBJ sector. Lets see if DL will restart JFK-KIN as well. They will use the B738s on JFK-MBJ.
The poster quoted "inside sources" I suspect they confused expressions of interest with bookings.
LGW is a prestige route and will be a disaster. Anorther Nicholas fiasco. The man thought he could be another Butch...starting routes helter skelter and then getting the govt to bail them out when they lost money.
N312RM From Cayman Islands, joined Mar 2012, 45 posts, RR: 0 Reply 10, posted (12 months 3 days 2 hours ago) and read 17035 times:
Hummingbird,
Thank you for featuring KX in this new thread. A fitting tribute, considering that the airline has served the Jamaica market for all of its existence (44+ years) including its predecessor Cayman Brac Airways (CBA) with its lone DC3. KX is certainly near the top of the list of airlines serving the KIN market on an uninterrupted basis, perhaps exceeded only by BW. I flew on CBA to and from KIN when I attended school in my youth. Quite often, the route was KIN-MBJ-CYB-GCM and took many hours to accomplish.
Permit me to share a few omissions from your otherwise accurate history of KX and add a few more details.
The first jet aircraft operated was the venerable BAC 1-11. Two were purchased (VR-CAL and VR-CAB) and operated until 1982 when they were disposed of and replaced by 2 B727-200 (N271AF and N272AF) on lease purchase. In 1988, they were sold to AS and replaced by 3 new B737-400's (VR-CAL, VR-CAB and VR-CAA) fresh from Boeing on lease. Unfortunaltely, KX was unable to afford the high lease payments (reportedly in excess of $300k per month each) and with the economic downturn was forced and restructure and return them to the lessor. These were replaced by 3 B737-200's (VP-CAL, VP-CYB and VP-CKX) that were purchased outright. VP-CYB was a combi, and was used to carry cargo overnight MIA-GCM. Passengers hated the aircraft as the overhead bin space was very limited.
In 2003, the airline began replacing the 200's with the B737-300 and they have all been retired to the desert. The fleet now comprises 4 B737-300's and 2 DHC6-300.
A nice collection of photos. That's my brother standing on the left in the photo of VP-CKY following her delivery flight. I was Chairman of KX at the time.
Occasionaly, the Twin Otters can be seen in KIN on medevac flights, so you might just catch one there some day.
jmbweeboy From United States of America, joined Feb 2006, 266 posts, RR: 0 Reply 11, posted (12 months 2 days 19 hours ago) and read 16976 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 11): BTW...
Changes on the FLL-KIN route for the summer..
NK who previously announced daily services will now operate 4 a week eff June..Flights will operate on Thur, Sun, Tues and Wed..
B6 will remain at twice daily..
Apparently B6 is offering a "friends and family" 50pc discount on FLL-KIN for all travel completed by September 30th and booked by June 1st with the promo code "Jamrock". The fact they are having to offer this combined with NK's cutback surely indicated bookings are not as solid for B6 this summer as some have indicated in the previous thread.
jmbweeboy From United States of America, joined Feb 2006, 266 posts, RR: 0 Reply 12, posted (12 months 2 days 18 hours ago) and read 16944 times:
Quoting jmbweeboy (Reply 17): Apparently B6 is offering a "friends and family" 50pc discount on FLL-KIN for all travel completed by September 30th and booked by June 1st with the promo code "Jamrock". The fact they are having to offer this combined with NK's cutback surely indicated bookings are not as solid for B6 this summer as some have indicated in the previous thread.
By the way, Jamrock is case sensitive, meaning with Caps.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 13, posted (12 months 2 days 7 hours ago) and read 16853 times:
Quoting ghifty (Reply 13): Just on observation: their livery looks mighty similar to British Airways' old "world tails" livery!
In a way, yes it does remind me of the BA old '' world tails '' livery. But the difference here is that most if not all ( not certain if any of their aircraft still have the older livery ) of KX's tails have the same design, unlike the old BA '' world tails '' where several designs were used.
BTW I wasn't even aware that they operated the DC-8 in the past as well.
Quoting N312RM (Reply 16): KX is certainly near the top of the list of airlines serving the KIN market on an uninterrupted basis
Got used to seeing their B737s at KIN growing up.
Apparently a '' disoriented '' passenger had to be restrained after AA flight 320 landed in MIA from MBJ yesterday.........................
'' MIAMI, USA (AP) A 24-year-old Canadian man is in federal custody for rushing toward the front of an American Airlines flight from Jamaica after the plane landed in Miami.
The FBI says Ryan Snider faces federal charges including interference with a flight crew. ''
beeweel15 From United States of America, joined Nov 2003, 1693 posts, RR: 0 Reply 14, posted (12 months 1 day 20 hours ago) and read 16741 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 4): Quoting A388 (Reply 2):
Since when has the Jamaican thread turned into a Caribbean Aviation thread. We have a separate thread for that
In the past we have featured many different carriers ( WS, 7I, RD, B6, BW, etc. ) that serve Jamaica, as the theme template for the thread. Don't remember KX being one of them ( maybe I just can't recall ) but it does make for an interesting theme none the less. I like the tail of their current livery.
While they serve Jamaica it copies the Caribbean Aviation thread which represents the whole Caribbean not just Jamaica.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 16, posted (12 months 1 day 19 hours ago) and read 16715 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 12): Seem they plan to rotate 2 A320s on at least some days for the FLL-KIN route during the summer, and from my observation their summer loads are shaping up quite nicely.
Thank you for featuring KX in this new thread. A fitting tribute, considering that the airline has served the Jamaica market for all of its existence (44+ years) including its predecessor Cayman Brac Airways (CBA) with its lone DC3. KX is certainly near the top of the list of airlines serving the KIN market on an uninterrupted basis, perhaps exceeded only by BW.
You are welcome..KX does deserve this tribute..
Quoting jmbweeboy (Reply 17): Apparently B6 is offering a "friends and family" 50pc discount on FLL-KIN for all travel completed by September 30th and booked by June 1st with the promo code "Jamrock". The fact they are having to offer this combined with NK's cutback surely indicated bookings are not as solid for B6 this summer as some have indicated in the previous thread.
JMBWEEBOY
Not really, Its a tactic to force BW to reduce service into FLL....BW recently increased flights to 3 a day into FLL from KIN..With a recent announcement, the airline is facing financial operational risk, the move is to dilute the route with the cheap fares to sink yields..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 19): '' MIAMI, USA (AP) A 24-year-old Canadian man is in federal custody for rushing toward the front of an American Airlines flight from Jamaica after the plane landed in Miami.
The FBI says Ryan Snider faces federal charges including interference with a flight crew. ''
A sad incident, but am happy the suspect was not Jamaican..When news first broke, the suspect was identified as a Jamaican, who tried to hijack the aircraft....
Quoting beeweel15 (Reply 20): While they serve Jamaica it copies the Caribbean Aviation thread which represents the whole Caribbean not just Jamaica.
You guys need to quit..Am not going to waste my time having petty squabbles over nonsensical issues..Since it's inception, the thread has and will continue to feature airlines that serve Jamaica...
Why are you having a problem with KX, when it the past we featured BW and Insel Air??
As mentioned by N312RM, we featured KX because;
Quoting N312RM (Reply 16): A fitting tribute, considering that the airline has served the Jamaica market for all of its existence (44+ years) including its predecessor Cayman Brac Airways (CBA) with its lone DC3. KX is certainly near the top of the list of airlines serving the KIN market on an uninterrupted basis,
LimaMike From Jamaica, joined Feb 2006, 224 posts, RR: 0 Reply 17, posted (12 months 1 day 15 hours ago) and read 16648 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 22): You guys need to quit..Am not going to waste my time having petty squabbles over nonsensical issues..Since it's inception, the thread has and will continue to feature airlines that serve Jamaica...
Bravo! Granted I was hoping you guys would simply IGNORE certain comments and just move on with life. If you do not respond to or make reference to some of the impish comments made then they will simply die a natural death.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 18, posted (12 months 1 day 14 hours ago) and read 16641 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 22): When news first broke, the suspect was identified as a Jamaican, who tried to hijack the aircraft....
Lol. Wasn't aware of that. There was one report that stated the passenger in question walked up towards the front of the aircraft prior to the landing. Media madness. One of the other passengers who assisted in subduing him was a trained security officer from Bermuda.
Quoting N312RM (Reply 16): A fitting tribute, considering that the airline has served the Jamaica market for all of its existence (44 years) including its predecessor Cayman Brac Airways (CBA) with its lone DC3.
817Dreamliiner From Montserrat, joined Jul 2008, 1405 posts, RR: 1 Reply 19, posted (12 months 1 day 5 hours ago) and read 16562 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 22): You guys need to quit..Am not going to waste my time having petty squabbles over nonsensical issues..Since it's inception, the thread has and will continue to feature airlines that serve Jamaica...
Why are you having a problem with KX, when it the past we featured BW and Insel Air??
Come on, why cant we all just get along and stop bashing each other? If their comments bother you simply ignore them like what LimaMike said:
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 23): Bravo! Granted I was hoping you guys would simply IGNORE certain comments and just move on with life. If you do not respond to or make reference to some of the impish comments made then they will simply die a natural death.
Blast Reality, Burst it into shreds! Banishment, This World!
jmbweeboy From United States of America, joined Feb 2006, 266 posts, RR: 0 Reply 20, posted (12 months 1 day 4 hours ago) and read 16541 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 22): Not really, Its a tactic to force BW to reduce service into FLL....BW recently increased flights to 3 a day into FLL from KIN..With a recent announcement, the airline is facing financial operational risk, the move is to dilute the route with the cheap fares to sink yields..
With the current cost of fuel, B6 is too smart an airline to engage in "loss pricing" with its fares to potentially drive a competiiror, particularly BW out of the market. They know BW will always be there but now Spirit, well that is another story. With their current reduction to 4 frequencies weekly, this is a repeat peformance of NK in the FLL-POS market where they reduced frequencies and then ultimately "left town." If there is a blood bath this summer with FLL-KIN, Spirit is likely the victim.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 21, posted (12 months 22 hours ago) and read 16473 times:
Just to make it clear, I replied to this Caribbean Aviation thread start because the thread started with a picture of the island itself. I don't remember seeing geographical charts of the U.S., U.K. or any of those big countries when those airlines were taken. That island photo and only that island photo mislead me and my apologies for this. As soon as AirJamaica explained it, I realized I was wrong but again I just want to clarify my initial reply.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 22, posted (12 months 18 hours ago) and read 16398 times:
DOT Stats Oct 20111
BW
FLL-KIN
13860-10022 72%
KIN-FLL
14014-8168 58%
FLL-MBJ
4928-3433 70%
MBJ-FLL
4774-3041 64%
JFK-KIN
9394-6559 70%
KIN-JFK
9548-6565 69%
JFK-MBJ
4928-3358 68%
MBJ-JFK
4774-3561 75%
KIN-MCO
1232-999 81%
MCO-KIN
1232-961 78%
PHL-MBJ
4620-2255 49%
MBJ-PHL
4620-2120 46%
B6
JFK-KIN
4650-3782 81%
KIN-JFK
4650-3903 84%
JFK-MBJ
4650-4221 91%
MBJ-JFK
4650-4168 90%
MCO-MBJ
4550-3127 69%
MBJ-MCO
4550-3166 70%
CO
EWR-MBJ
800-755 94%
MBJ-EWR
813-709 87%
IAH-MBJ
813-710 87%
MBJ-IAH
800-713 89%
DL
ATL-MBJ
10181-9468 93%
MBJ-ATL
10181-9359 92%
US
CLT-MBJ
10183-9364 92%
MBJ-CLT
10183-8875 87%
PHL-MBJ
3528-2848 81%
MBJ-PHL
3528-2966 84%
AA
DFW-MBJ
2400-1864 78%
MBJ-DFW
2400-1990 83%
MIA-KIN
14868-10715 72%
KIN-MIA
14708-10357 70%
MIA-MBJ
11692-10034 86%
MBJ-MIA
11690-9660 83%
NK
FLL-KIN
1160-858 74%
KIN-FLL
1160-808 70%
FLL-MBJ
1470-939 64%
MBJ-FLL
1470-1042 71%
SY
FLL-MBJ
5022-3426 68%
MBJ-FLL
5022-3043 61%
PHL-MBJ
4860-2537 52%
MBJ-PHL
4860-2420 50%
U5
ORD-MBJ
840-771 92%
MBJ-ORD
840-701 83%
FL
ATL-MBJ
4110-3581 87%
MBJ-ATL
4110-3385 82%
BWI-MBJ
3836-3226 84%
MBJ-BWI
3836-3256 85%
MCO-MBJ
1918-1139 60%
MBJ-MCO
1918-1145 60%
Quoting jmbweeboy (Reply 26): With the current cost of fuel, B6 is too smart an airline to engage in "loss pricing" with its fares to potentially drive a competiiror, particularly BW out of the market. They know BW will always be there but now Spirit, well that is another story. With their current reduction to 4 frequencies weekly, this is a repeat peformance of NK in the FLL-POS market where they reduced frequencies and then ultimately "left town." If there is a blood bath this summer with FLL-KIN, Spirit is likely the victim.
Believe me when I say, there is a lot more I cannot say, but mark my word, B6 is determined to win over the FLL-KIN market...
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 23, posted (12 months 17 hours ago) and read 16352 times:
Quoting jmbweeboy (Reply 26): If there is a blood bath this summer with FLL-KIN, Spirit is likely the victim.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 28): Believe me when I say, there is a lot more I cannot say, but mark my word, B6 is determined to win over the FLL-KIN market...
I think NK will try their best to hang on to FLL-KIN as much as they possibly can. They are known for adjusting their Jamaican frequencies from time to time over the years. But it will be interesting to see how that sector play out with all three carriers. At the same time I think that B6 has a distinct advantage on the route where flexibility of equipment type is concerned. E190s double daily, with the A320s/E190s mixture during the peak periods.
All aircraft are now wearing the new livery. The tail is an oversized image of Cayman's Coat of Arms.
Yes, KX did operate a single DC8-53 in the early 1980's for about 2 years to supplement the B727's on the longer charter routes. It was an ex-UAL machine.You can find a few photos on this site.
Other aircraft they have operated over the years include:
DC9-15 - Wet leased from Air Florida for about 6 months, pending arrival of the BAC1-11 in 1977
HS 748 - Used on inter-island service and MIA-CYB
BN Trislander - Inter-island service
DC6 - Cargo service GCM-MIA and GCM-KIN
KIN has turned out to be a financial disaster which is not sustainable. Jca will not put $ into BW as it defeats the goal of ridding them of JM, the othert money pit. T&T cannot indefinitely pour $ to support the KIN base. Not politically feasible.
Also with tiny market share, 2x/week, NK isnt a source for passengers for B6. BW is and so they will be targetted. If FLL doesnt work for BW and if YYZ is problematic due to incursions by Westjet and expansion by AC, its hard to justify the KIN base. Aside from NAS its now cut to the bone.
CAL is stuck with LGW and to offset those losses they will have to become lean and mean elsewhere.
jmbweeboy From United States of America, joined Feb 2006, 266 posts, RR: 0 Reply 26, posted (11 months 4 weeks 20 hours ago) and read 16060 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 31): Why are you so sure that BW will always be there?
Nothing other than gut feeling from watching airlines enter and leave markets for the past 46 years!
In South Florida where I live, B6 is not considered the "2nd coming" like they migtht be currently in Jamaica. Bottom line, the diaspora here will ultimately stick with CAL, however much they mourn the loss of the old JM.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 27, posted (11 months 4 weeks 18 hours ago) and read 16093 times:
Quoting jmbweeboy (Reply 26): Bottom line, the diaspora here will ultimately stick with CAL, however much they mourn the loss of the old JM.
Not too certain about the '' stick '' part. It goes way beyond people simply missing or mourning JM. Mr. Lalor doesn't feel that way based on what he said not too long ago. There are those in the diaspora who are price sensitive, and will happily choose B6 if their fares are more competitive ( which often times it is, even with the fee for the second checked luggage ). When B6 inaugurated JFK-KIN, their loads were not super spectacular like their previous JFK-MBJ start up. However that has now changed, and it is quite clear Jamaicans at home and abroad have embraced B6's services. I am sure the carrier is quite cognisant of that, and no doubt they will try to replicate the same sucess on their FLL-KIN route. At the end of the day the KIN market is very competitive and is getting even more so, with the entry of WS etc. Time will tell though.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 28, posted (11 months 4 weeks 10 hours ago) and read 16025 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 33): Mr. Lalor doesn't feel that way based on what he said not too long ago.
Speaking about Mr. Lalor, he is of the opinion that JM's debt is not to be blamed for BW's current financial dilemma........
'' The divestment team that organised the Jamaican Governments sale in 2010 rejected recent reports that the airline was an albatross around the neck of its Trinidadian rescuer. ''
'' CAL did not get any assets or liabilities of Air Jamaica when it started operating the national airline in May 2010, said the head of the divestment team, Dennis Lalor. Nor were Air Jamaica operations merged with CALs even when it began operating under the Caribbean Airlines brand a year later. ''
'' The Government of Jamaica assumed all liabilities of Air J, providing CAL a clean slate as it relates to Air Js operations - Lalor said, adding that this was done to ensure that CAL would have no disadvantages when it got the Air Jamaica brand.
'' In addition, the Government of Jamaica provided CAL with cash of over US$17 million, which represented tickets prepaid for by customers not yet flown. ''
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 30, posted (11 months 4 weeks 6 hours ago) and read 15979 times:
Quoting baje427 (Reply 35): How are you able to access these statistics?
If you are referring to the airline load factors hummingbird posts, that comes from the U.S. DoT or BTS if I'm not mistaken. This data is available to the public but it can only be generated up to about six months from the current date.
Hummingbird can explain this in more detail I think.
caribbean484 From Trinidad and Tobago, joined Jan 2007, 2549 posts, RR: 1 Reply 31, posted (11 months 4 weeks 6 hours ago) and read 15978 times:
Quoting baje427 (Reply 29): How are you able to access these statistics?
The stats come from the the USDOT's office Research and Innovative Technology Admin (RITA) and its sub-office BTS which post all data related to public transportation, land sea and air, where I use stats for airport planning and future expansion. The stats are compiled on a quarterly basis, however International stats are posted 2 quarters thereafter. The new stats come out every 3rd week of the month, November 2011 stats are available.
Here is the site for aviation: http://www.transtats.bts.gov/Tables....riers&DB_Short_Name=Air%20Carriers
to make life easier choose, seat, passengers, carrier(in the carrier section), origin, destination.
In the top section filler geography select the country, and month your looking for.
JMs debts arent the cause of CALs problems, however losses on the KIN base since the acquisition of these routes is at the heart of CALs problems. Simply put, if CAL cant make these routes work QUICKLY they will have to shut down the base.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 37, posted (11 months 4 weeks 1 hour ago) and read 15883 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 42): JMs debts arent the cause of CALs problems, however losses on the KIN base since the acquisition of these routes is at the heart of CALs problems. Simply put, if CAL cant make these routes work QUICKLY they will have to shut down the base.
If the KIN base will be shut down, it will mean that the flights to/from SXM will also terminate seeing that the routing also continues to KIN? I think SXM wasn't in danger of being axed?
SXM is served out of the POS base. KIN to POS flights are clearly needed and will continue, even if capacity is reduced from the current 11x.
Whats in doubt is Jca to North Am if the flights lose money. BW doesnt have time to "make it work". With the LON route likely to be a cash drain they definitely have to reduce losses elsewhere. They got into the deal with LAn for 2 767s and I am not sure that they can back out now. So they will have at least one severely under used 767 8 months of the year when JFK/YYZ cant absorb these planes. Also its tough for them to push back BA with that carrier's 6X vs BWs 2X on what is a heavy business route. Historically POS LON is really a one carrier route and this low frequency guarantees that BA stays.
BW didnt think thru its LON route even though many analysts warned tham of the pit falls. Now that they will not do BGI LON, after much fanfare in BGI, that reduces their credibility if and when they do, given BWs marginal position in that island (its a KIN/POS/GEO carrier).
B6 is making sure their life will become even more difficult. A good % of the VFR market is as integrated to FL NY travel as they are to travel to KIN/MBJ from both points and B6 is a much loved carrier on this route. One gets the impression thatB6 is very sensitive to the Jamaican traveler as they seem to use Jcan cultural symbols in their marketing more so than BW does. B6, seeing blood, will set out to reduce yields on the KIN routes knowing that this will force BW to be the secondary carrier on the route (and maybe exit MBJ). Can BW make $ being a secondary carrier to Jca, given overheads associated with that operation will be a question that will need to be answered.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 40, posted (11 months 3 weeks 6 days 22 hours ago) and read 15806 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 36): JMs debts arent the cause of CALs problems, however losses on the KIN base since the acquisition of these routes is at the heart of CALs problems. Simply put, if CAL cant make these routes work QUICKLY they will have to shut down the base.
All this was predicted from day one, and will not be a surprise to many if it does happen.
Quoting A388 (Reply 37): If the KIN base will be shut down, it will mean that the flights to/from SXM will also terminate seeing that the routing also continues to KIN? I think SXM wasn't in danger of being axed?
Quoting guyanam (Reply 38): SXM is served out of the POS base. KIN to POS flights are clearly needed and will continue, even if capacity is reduced from the current 11x.
From what I understand, the KIN to EC operations historically has performed very well for them, so it is highly unlikely that they would discontinue those services all together if they eventually decide to close shop in KIN.
Quoting A388 (Reply 39): Don't know if you know it that those flights continue to KIN which is why the route is doing well what I've understood...
True. But usually that flight originate/terminate in POS over the years so they could still successfully operate it from their home base.
guyanam From United States of America, joined Mar 2010, 961 posts, RR: 1 Reply 41, posted (11 months 3 weeks 6 days 22 hours ago) and read 15815 times:
I do know that this summer BW will have more service to SXM out of KIN and POS than they will have to ANU. This is a traditional BWIA route, its lucrative and there is no competition.
Very different from KIN/MBJ YYZ/JFK/FLL where competition is intense and the competitors are ruthless. Apparently they are still looking at other routes to drop and as they have stripped out much of the overheads out of KIN I dont see how much further they can go to reduce losses. The KIN base has way lower overhead expenses than it did under JM so should be profitable. Clearly it isnt based on the US$38MM losses reported.
I see no evidence that Jcans are warming to them either. It is merely another option and will be selected based on fares, baggage policies, etc. B6 has definitely committed heavily to the Jcan VFR market.
The "love/hate" relationship that Jcans had with AirJ hasnt transferred over. By this I mean continuing to use AJ even as their service standards dropped out of the notion that it was "fi wi ting" (our thing). BW isnt lucky like that.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 42, posted (11 months 3 weeks 4 days 9 hours ago) and read 15627 times:
Well, 90 more Jamaicans have been made redundant at BW, including some who were working in POS................
'' AIRCRAFT MAINTENANCE in Jamaica has been dealt a severe blow as Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) carried out another round of redundancies, sending home 90 Jamaican employees.
The latest group to be issued with redundancy letters by the Trinidad-based company includes 30 aircraft mechanics, human resource officers, customer relations and finance personnel. The staff received their letters of termination on Thursday afternoon. ''
'' The source said everything had been moved to Trinidad and even the Jamaicans who were there working in Port-of-Spain have been sent back home. ''
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 29): I think NK will try their best to hang on to FLL-KIN as much as they possibly can. They are known for adjusting their Jamaican frequencies from time to time over the years. But it will be interesting to see how that sector play out with all three carriers.
From what I have seen from my visits to FLL,NK is here to stay..They have a cost structure, that allows them to remain competitive in the market...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 29): Very interesting stats. B6 extremely impressive on JFK-KIN as usual. The PHL-MBJ route speaks for itself.
A definite money making route for B6....
Quoting N312RM (Reply 30): All aircraft are now wearing the new livery. The tail is an oversized image of Cayman's Coat of Arms.
Are there plans to modernize the fleet?...I assume the B737s have at least 5 more years of flying before it becomes scrap..
Quoting guyanam (Reply 31): Aside from NAS its now cut to the bone.
With the added competition, I assume some frequencies will be cut from FLL and JFK....
Quoting jmbweeboy (Reply 32): In South Florida where I live, B6 is not considered the "2nd coming" like they migtht be currently in Jamaica. Bottom line, the diaspora here will ultimately stick with CAL, however much they mourn the loss of the old JM.
I beg to differ..Earlier this week, while in uniform, I accompanied my mother to the check in counter for BW034..The check-in agent inquired about our loads, then she mentioned, the flights to Jamaica are not full as before and average loads are below the 40s....I assume, you are referring to the minority of the society who are of the belief, JM is in existence....
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 33): When B6 inaugurated JFK-KIN, their loads were not super spectacular like their previous JFK-MBJ start up. However that has now changed, and it is quite clear Jamaicans at home and abroad have embraced B6's services. I am sure the carrier is quite cognisant of that, and no doubt they will try to replicate the same sucess on their FLL-KIN route. At the end of the day the KIN market is very competitive and is getting even more so, with the entry of WS etc. Time will tell though.
I anticipate WS to take a greater slice of the huge migrant and overseas work community..Recently, alot of Jamaicans are now participating in programmes that have extended to areas as Calgary..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 34): '' The Government of Jamaica assumed all liabilities of Air J, providing CAL a clean slate as it relates to Air Js operations - Lalor said, adding that this was done to ensure that CAL would have no disadvantages when it got the Air Jamaica brand.
Buju was right when he said " A Yardman get the blame", lol..
Quoting guyanam (Reply 42): Simply put, if CAL cant make these routes work QUICKLY they will have to shut down the base.
Soon..I am only hoping for FlyJam to succeed in their ventures...
Quoting guyanam (Reply 44): One gets the impression thatB6 is very sensitive to the Jamaican traveler as they seem to use Jcan cultural symbols in their marketing more so than BW does. B6, seeing blood, will set out to reduce yields on the KIN routes knowing that this will force BW to be the secondary carrier on the route (and maybe exit MBJ). Can BW make $ being a secondary carrier to Jca, given overheads associated with that operation will be a question that will need to be answered.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 46): All this was predicted from day one, and will not be a surprise to many if it does happen.
That is a part of their long term plan, to dominate the KIN-US market...
Quoting A388 (Reply 45): Don't know if you know it that those flights continue to KIN which is why the route is doing well what I've understood...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 46): From what I understand, the KIN to EC operations historically has performed very well for them, so it is highly unlikely that they would discontinue those services all together if they eventually decide to close shop in KIN.
With little or no competition on their EC-KIN sector, these routes are safe..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 42): Well, 90 more Jamaicans have been made redundant at BW, including some who were working in POS................
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 44, posted (11 months 3 weeks 1 day 10 hours ago) and read 15343 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): PTY-KIN will see an increase to 4 weekly from the existing two..
When will this increase become effective ? I am assuming it will be 4x weekly E-190 service.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 43): That is a part of their long term plan, to dominate the KIN-US market...
Many people seem to have responded to their JAMROCK promotion between FLL and KIN. One of my co-worker was speaking about it recently.
Thanks to a Jamaican doc, the life of an ill teenager was saved on a DL flight from ATL to MBJ last week Friday........
'' When Dr Pamela Charles Pryce and her family boarded the Delta Airlines flight for a Jamaican vacation last Friday, little did she know she would be saving the life of a fellow traveller ..... for the fourth time.
That was also the most interesting and serious encounter for Charles Pryce in her 13-year medical career. Just about 40 minutes before landing at Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St James, there was a request for a doctor. ''
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 45, posted (11 months 3 weeks 18 hours ago) and read 15211 times:
Seem JALPA and BW are at odds again.......................
'' The Jamaica Airline Pilots Association (JALPA) has accused Caribbean Airlines (CAL) of blocking its attempt to represent employees of the airline who are based in Jamaica.
JALPA, which is affiliated with the Bustamante Industrial Trade Union (BITU) says it was advised by the vice president for human resources at CAL Charmaine Heslop-DaCosta that its claim for bargaining rights for pilots would not be entertained.
JALPA says Caribbean Airlines has indicated that it is in discussions with a trade union registered in Trinidad and Tobago and its employees in Jamaica will fall under this union. ''
What a waste of energy. Someone's candle will soon burn out, and eventually there'll be a realization that going over the never-ending BW /JM fiasco is simply pointless. Hopefully somebody will press the fast-forward button and we'll get to the ending credits soon.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 47, posted (11 months 2 weeks 5 days 22 hours ago) and read 14922 times:
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 46): What a waste of energy. Someone's candle will soon burn out, and eventually there'll be a realization that going over the never-ending BW /JM fiasco is simply pointless. Hopefully somebody will press the fast-forward button and we'll get to the ending credits soon.
Quite a comical situation if you ask me. Throughout all of this B6 and other major carriers to the island continue to make inroads. Dying for this '' saga '' to end.
Opposition tourism spokesman Ed Bartlett is concerned about the recent wave of new taxes and the effect it may have on visitor arrivals to the island...................
'' Ed Bartlett said this will only serve to hurt vacationers who already pay high taxes to travel.
He pointed out that at present travellers to Jamaica pay about US$50 in government taxes and fees.
The opposition spokesman said when the airline ticket and the hotel room taxes are added to this figure, a visitor will be paying about US$100 in taxes. ''
Myself is concerned about this as well. Travellers from the UK for example already have APD to contend with, now they will be greeted with even more locally implemented arrival/hotel taxes. We just have to wait and see what will happen statistic wise after the next winter travel season. But naturally travellers will be scouting around to see where they can get the best deal for their travel dollar where airline travel and hotel accommodation is concerned.
Quoting LimaMike (Reply 46): What a waste of energy. Someone's candle will soon burn out, and eventually there'll be a realization that going over the never-ending BW /JM fiasco is simply pointless. Hopefully somebody will press the fast-forward button and we'll get to the ending credits soon.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 53): Quite a comical situation if you ask me. Throughout all of this B6 and other major carriers to the island continue to make inroads. Dying for this '' saga '' to end.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 53):
Myself is concerned about this as well. Travellers from the UK for example already have APD to contend with, now they will be greeted with even more locally implemented arrival/hotel taxes. We just have to wait and see what will happen statistic wise after the next winter travel season. But naturally travellers will be scouting around to see where they can get the best deal for their travel dollar where airline travel and hotel accommodation is concerned.
Bad move on their part...Despite the demand for the island, The GOJ must ensure the country remains competitive in the industry...
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 48): Bad move on their part...Despite the demand for the island, The GOJ must ensure the country remains competitive in the industry...
They could never be serious about maintaining/increasing visitor arrivals from both traditional and non traditional markets with the recently announced arrival/hotel taxes that would inevitably impact those wishing to vacation here in a negative manner. They must be mindful that there are nearby locations such as the Dominican Republic that have thousands of all inclusive hotel rooms as well that are competitively priced. It is indeed cause for concern, as up to a few days ago it was reported that some investors are having second thoughts re doing business here, as it would be a very challenging environment financially for them to operate in with these new tax announcements. They seem to have made some adjustments since their initial announcement by lowering some of the charges................
'' Effective September 1, the Government will be charging an accommodation tax per occupied hotel room. Phillips said US$1 will be charged for accommodations with fewer than 51 rooms. He also said US$2 is to be charged at accommodations with 51-100 rooms, while US$4 is to be charged at accommodations with 101 or more rooms.
Initially, the Government had proposed accommodation tax of up to US$12 per room for properties with 201 or more rooms. It was also proposed to impose a tax of US$2 for properties with fewer than 51 rooms. ''
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 50, posted (11 months 2 weeks 5 days 7 hours ago) and read 14787 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 49): They must be mindful that there are nearby locations such as the Dominican Republic that have thousands of all inclusive hotel rooms as well that are competitively priced. It is indeed cause for concern, as up to a few days ago it was reported that some investors are having second thoughts re doing business here, as it would be a very challenging environment financially for them to operate in with these new tax announcements. They seem to have made some adjustments since their initial announcement by lowering some of the charges................
Am hoping this does not affect the industry as a fallout will have serious effects on the economy..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 49): Seem there is no intention to adjust the US$ 20 fee that passengers arriving into the island will have to pay.
Yet we have the nerve to criticize the British over their ADP...
JAMAICA AIR Shuttle Limited has announced it will add a third weekly frequency between Kingston and Port-au-Prince, Haiti, effective July 1.
The airline will operate flights between the two capitals on Mondays, Tuesdays and Fridays. There are also plans for a fourth flight per week, should the growth trend continue.
Deryck Dwyer, the airline's marketing manager, said the addition of capacity is in response to an increase in demand on the route. He attributed this to four factors:
First, he noted that the existence of non-stop flights is an important catalyst for travel for business and cultural reasons.
AIRLIFT INTO Jamaica, visa facilitation and the emerging markets are among the crucial issues that will take centre stage at the combined Caribbean Tourism Summit and Outlook Seminar in Montego Bay next weekend.
The summit will also focus on issues facing regional tourism and will examine the link between the region's aviation policy and its competitiveness.
The integrated Canadian tour company Sunwing is the new owner of the former Breezes Trelawny hotel.
The company also continues to run the former Breezes Rio Bueno hotel, also known as Braco Resorts, under lease from owner, the National Investment Fund.
On Wednesday, SuperClubs' vice-president of marketing and environmental affairs Zein Issa Nakash, indicated that the agreement for sale had been concluded and executed with the tour company.
A release from the companies which has been posted on global travel sites said that the purchaser of the property is Blue Diamond Hotels & Resorts, a division of Sunwing Travel Group.
For the summer, UA will operate 8 weekly flights from IAH..A double service operates on SAT..
Yesterday DL operated 4 B752s into MBJ from ATL..
I was inquiring about Sunwings flights from BNA and CVG into MBJ...The aircraft is not based in the US..There is an inbound aircraft from YUL or YYZ to MBJ, which later operate flights to BNA or CVG..For e.g, today's aircraft that operates YUL-MBJ, will continue to BNA and return to MBJ..The aircraft will then continue to YUL, later tonight..
The JCAA has updated their charter permits list for 2011..
Interestingly, the following airlines are shown to have permits into MBJ:
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 54, posted (11 months 2 weeks 2 days 16 hours ago) and read 14463 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 50): JAMAICA AIR Shuttle Limited has announced it will add a third weekly frequency between Kingston and Port-au-Prince, Haiti, effective July 1.
Many will like the fact that they are able to bypass MIA to get to/from PAP.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 50): Yet we have the nerve to criticize the British over their ADP...
Lol....Some will argue that it is a bit hypocritical.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 53): Its sad to see Redjet in this current situation..Had they been allowed to operate " freely" in the region, it would have been a different story...
Due to Govt intervention, Redjet has found itself in the same boat as BW,JM and LI...
One thing though, RD did create an impact the short time they were around.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 53): For the summer, UA will operate 8 weekly flights from IAH..A double service operates on SAT..
Yesterday DL operated 4 B752s into MBJ from ATL..
Great frequencies from both UA and DL into MBJ.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 53): I was inquiring about Sunwings flights from BNA and CVG into MBJ...The aircraft is not based in the US..There is an inbound aircraft from YUL or YYZ to MBJ, which later operate flights to BNA or CVG..For e.g, today's aircraft that operates YUL-MBJ, will continue to BNA and return to MBJ..The aircraft will then continue to YUL, later tonight..
Guess they rotate it in that manner to maximise aircraft utilization.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 53): The JCAA has updated their charter permits list for 2011..
I notice they depict EB for the LGW-MBJ-LGW sector. Could have sworn that carrier operated MAD-MBJ-MAD instead ( ? )
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 55, posted (11 months 2 weeks 23 hours ago) and read 14296 times:
Both the Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston and the Donald Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay will be seeking to diversify their offerings to the public ( both travellers and non travellers alike ) even more...........
'' The Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ) has plans to introduce cultural entertainment in a bid to increase the volume of non-travelling visitors to the island's points of departure and arrival.
One most notable feature of this initiative is that the Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) is currently considering the opportunity to provide a venue for mass entertainment.
According to Alfred McDonald, senior director of commercial development and planning at AAJ, both the Sangster International Airport (SIA) and the NMIA have included cultural entertainment in their respective airport operations over time. ''
'' NMIA is currently considering the opportunity to provide a venue for mass entertainment (such as stage events/concerts) on airport lands as well as a fine-dining area, which provide a view of arriving and departing aircraft. These initiatives are in their embryonic stages '' - McDonald told The Gleaner.
I think this is a great idea. Many benefits including job creation, additional revenue generation etc. Personally I like the thought of having an area ( dining or otherwise ) where aviation enthusiasts like myself can get to view the '' action '' . Hopefully the area will offer great spotting opportunities.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 56, posted (11 months 2 weeks 2 hours ago) and read 14157 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 54): Many will like the fact that they are able to bypass MIA to get to/from PAP.
Kudos to them for providing air service in this niche market...When the route was first announced, the fares were hovering in the USD800s...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 54): One thing though, RD did create an impact the short time they were around.
I agree..They are somewhat responsible for the increase in air travel between KIN and BGI and POS..One of their MD83 was spotted in FLL on Saturday...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 54): Great frequencies from both UA and DL into MBJ.
I agree....
US has also increase capacity on their PHL-MBJ route..They are now using a B752 and A321 mix on their double daily service..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 54): I notice they depict EB for the LGW-MBJ-LGW sector. Could have sworn that carrier operated MAD-MBJ-MAD instead ( ? )
Perhaps, they got the contract to transport cruise ship pax from LGW...
I remember seeing their B742 in MBJ....
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 55): '' The Airports Authority of Jamaica (AAJ) has plans to introduce cultural entertainment in a bid to increase the volume of non-travelling visitors to the island's points of departure and arrival.
Its about time..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 55): Hopefully the area will offer great spotting opportunities.
I believe "Dead End" has the potential to become the new Maho Beach......
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 58, posted (11 months 1 week 4 days 17 hours ago) and read 13916 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 56): US has also increase capacity on their PHL-MBJ route..They are now using a B752 and A321 mix on their double daily service..
This move was expected, as by July they will be the only carrier on that route. Still very curious to see which other carrier the JTB is trying to court to operate that sector as well, though I really don't see where the necessity exists for such an endeavour.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 62): I believe "Dead End" has the potential to become the new Maho Beach......
Quoting A388 (Reply 63): Now that's something that will attract me as an aircraft spotter!!!
Been waiting patiently for both MBJ and KIN to develop a suitable area as such. Very much looking forward to it. Hopefully it will happen sooner than later.
Both BA and B6 are expressing serious concerns re the recently announced arrival tax by the Government. Principals of both carriers share the same opinion that it will ultimately impact Jamaica negatively.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 60, posted (11 months 1 week ago) and read 13674 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 64): Both BA and B6 are expressing serious concerns re the recently announced arrival tax by the Government. Principals of both carriers share the same opinion that it will ultimately impact Jamaica negatively.
It would be very sad if they decide to reduce/terminate flights to the island because of these new taxes.
What amount was this arrival tax before the 20 percent increase?
Regarding the viewing areas at MBJ and KIN, I also really hope this will come, especially taking into account the position of the sun for aircraft spotters like us
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 61, posted (11 months 6 days 21 hours ago) and read 13641 times:
DOT Stats Nov 2011.
BW
FLL-KIN
13706-10532 77%
KIN-FLL
13860-9822 71%
JFK-KIN
9240-7686 83%
KIN-JFK
9240-7455 80%
KIN-MCO
1386-1045 75%
MCO-KIN
1386-891 64%
JFK-MBJ
4620-3425 74%
MBJ-JFK
4620-3897 84%
FLL-MBJ
4620-3679 79%
MBJ-FLL
4620-3186 69%
PHL-MBJ
4466-2920 65%
MBJ-PHL
4466-2504 56%
AA
DFW-MBJ
1920-1468 76%
MBJ-DFW
1760-1574 89%
KIN-MIA
14400-10245 71%
MIA-KIN
14400-10765 75%
MBJ-MIA
13542-10564 78%
MIA-MBJ
13544-11447 85%
ORD-MBJ
1853-1363 74%
MBJ-ORD
1853-1295 70%
B6
BOS-MBJ
600-518 86%
MBJ-BOS
600-465 78%
JFK-KIN
4500-3660 81%
KIN-JFK
4500-3735 83%
JFK-MBJ
6150-5542 90%
MBJ-JFK
6300-5407 86%
MCO-MBJ
3150-2352 75%
MBJ-MCO
3150-2349 75%
CO
EWR-MBJ
2368-2235 94%
MBJ-EWR
2381-2088 88%
IAH-MBJ
1133-843 74%
MBJ-IAH
1120-975 87%
DL
ATL-MBJ
9882-8808 89%
MBJ-ATL
9884-8729 88%
DTW-MBJ
616-566 92%
MBJ-DTW
616-562 91%
FL
ATL-MBJ
4110-3544 86%
MBJ-ATL
4110-3338 81%
BWI-MBJ
4932-4058 82%
MBJ-BWI
4932-4201 85%
MCO-MBJ
3562-2584 73%
MBJ-MCO
3562-2305 65%
US
CLT-MBJ
13063-11273 86%
MBJ-CLT
13187-11114 84%
PHL-MBJ
4898-4145 85%
MBJ-PHL
4898-4165 85%
NK
FLL-KIN
1971-1491 76%
KIN-FLL
1971-1551 79%
FLL-MBJ
2472-1832 74%
MBJ-FLL
2472-1730 70%
U5
ORD-MBJ
840-724 86%
MBJ-ORD
840-690 82%
NA(BW)
JFK-KIN
870-811 93%
KIN-JFK
870-499 57%
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 58): This move was expected, as by July they will be the only carrier on that route. Still very curious to see which other carrier the JTB is trying to court to operate that sector as well, though I really don't see where the necessity exists for such an endeavour.
I have a feeling this route will see a widebody by Dec..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 62, posted (11 months 6 days 7 hours ago) and read 13562 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 59): How is the LGW KIN route now that VS has gone and BA only serves it 3X (the same frequency as it had when JM flew to LHR daily)?
I assume that BA is content with their 3x weekly LGW-KIN service in light of VS's recent termination of the route, and the non existence of JM on it as well. Their major challenges would be the controversial APD tax, oil prices, state of the economy in their region ( and globally to a larger extent ), the recently announced 20% arrival tax for incoming passengers to the island and visa requirements for locals wishing to visit the UK which was not previously a pre-requisite for quite sometime. An entry clearance was previously required.
Quoting A388 (Reply 60): What amount was this arrival tax before the 20 percent increase?
Not certain if there was always an '' arrival tax '' in place prior to the recent announcement. I know there is a departure tax system in place which is calculated as a part of the ticket cost. The impression I get reading several articles on the subject is that this '' arrival tax '' is new, but I could be mistaken. Will make some inquiries to verify this. One article I read recently stated that this tax, coupled with the hotel room tax will now place Jamaica as one of the most taxed vacation destination in the region, which does not bode well for the '' goose that lays the golden egg '' so to speak.
Quoting A388 (Reply 60): Regarding the viewing areas at MBJ and KIN, I also really hope this will come, especially taking into account the position of the sun for aircraft spotters like us
B6 and FL co-existing on MCO-MBJ I see. FL stats on this route was quite questionable at one point. But they have subsequently shown marked improvement on it. As for B6, not bad considering they were rotating an E-190 on it at the time.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 61): I have a feeling this route will see a widebody by Dec..
About 7 years ago JM ran 8X/week LHR to Jamaica (on Sundays both MBJ and KIN got nonstops). BA did 3X into KIN.
I assume that JMs traffic was a 50:50 KIN/MBJ split. So that means that KIN has 1,000 fewer seats weekly than it did before.
Has the APD so adversely impacted UK Jamaica traffic that 1,000 fewer seats doesnt create a huge bottle neck, especially into KIN.
VS has completely replaced JM into MBJ. KIN hasnt seen a replacement. I would think that MBJ with VFR/oriented traffic (I dont think Jamaica attracts high end leisure travel out of the UK as the upscale folks seem to prefer BGI, and ANU) would suffer more than KIN which is more business oriented, in addition to its VFR. Yet it has maintained its airlift while KIN has lost a big portion.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 64, posted (11 months 5 days 21 hours ago) and read 13443 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 62): I assume that BA is content with their 3x weekly LGW-KIN service in light of VS's recent termination of the route, and the non existence of JM on it as well. Their major challenges would be the controversial APD tax, oil prices, state of the economy in their region ( and globally to a larger extent ), the recently announced 20% arrival tax for incoming passengers to the island and visa requirements for locals wishing to visit the UK which was not previously a pre-requisite for quite sometime. An entry clearance was previously required.
Based on observations, its safe to say, BA will be the lone carrier on this route..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 62): B6 and FL co-existing on MCO-MBJ I see. FL stats on this route was quite questionable at one point. But they have subsequently shown marked improvement on it. As for B6, not bad considering they were rotating an E-190 on it at the time.
Both flights are strong feed for pax originating in the Northeast and Midwest...Am also happy to see FL maintaining the year round service...
Quoting guyanam (Reply 63): About 7 years ago JM ran 8X/week LHR to Jamaica (on Sundays both MBJ and KIN got nonstops). BA did 3X into KIN.
I will stand to be corrected, but at one point they maintained a 9 weekly service..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 65, posted (11 months 5 days 17 hours ago) and read 13384 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 69): About 7 years ago JM ran 8X/week LHR to Jamaica (on Sundays both MBJ and KIN got nonstops).
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 70): I will stand to be corrected, but at one point they maintained a 9 weekly service..
The frequency I recall from LHR was 9x weekly, with the additional 2x weekly flights from MAN. The LHR frequency wasn't always 9x per week though. It went through several adjustments to gradually reach that figure.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 69): I would think that MBJ with VFR/oriented traffic (I dont think Jamaica attracts high end leisure travel out of the UK as the upscale folks seem to prefer BGI, and ANU) would suffer more than KIN which is more business oriented, in addition to its VFR. Yet it has maintained its airlift while KIN has lost a big portion.
Part of the reason why MBJ has maintained their frequency for the most part is the mixture of the traffic that enter that gateway when compared with the likes of KIN. The high end leisure component may not be at the levels of those that fly to BGI, ANU, UVF etc., but MBJ does command a decent amount of general leisure traffic from that region and it combines with the VFR. As for KIN, I am certain if the demand warranted more frequencies, BA would have increased their rotations long ago.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 70): Looks like Air Berlin has pulled the plug on MBJ...There are no flights bookable for the winter season..
Quite a blow if this is indeed the case. I recall pre merger/take over, LTU was a regular on DUS-MBJ for years. Used to enjoy watching their A330 in action down there. But it is just an overall indication as to how times have changed in the industry. They will be missed.
BA is quite willing to force passengers into KIN via MIA and they already codeshares with AA. Many who use that option might prefer direct service. By restricting capacity it drives up fares and reduces risk of empty seats.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 67, posted (11 months 1 day 7 hours ago) and read 13072 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 60): What amount was this arrival tax before the 20 percent increase?
Spoke with an industry personnel regarding this '' arrival tax " and she confirmed that it is indeed a new one.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 66): BA is quite willing to force passengers into KIN via MIA and they already codeshares with AA. Many who use that option might prefer direct service. By restricting capacity it drives up fares and reduces risk of empty seats.
Well that is also true. Like any other carrier operating in this challenging industry, they will try to maximize yields/aircraft utilization as much as they possibly can. Even if it means deliberately restricting frequencies on certain routes and sending those metals to others that command a higher premium.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 68, posted (11 months 7 hours ago) and read 12975 times:
Reports indicate that AA remains the number one carrier to Jamaica, while B6 continues its upward trajectory where market share gain is concerned, particularly on the JFK route.........
'' But JetBlue already took a huge chunk of the New York destination from the former national carrier. It carried nine passengers for every 11 Caribbean carried within the market segment last year.
Even if it surpasses Caribbean, JetBlue's expansion thrust may not get it past American. ''
No surprises in the aforementioned report really. AA's strong MIA hub and long history where service to the island is concerned is noteworthy. Also B6 has been quite aggressive in Jamaica since the first day they inaugurated flights here, with their very competitive fares and excellent service. Let us see how their recent expansion from FLL into KIN will play out.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 69, posted (11 months 7 hours ago) and read 12948 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 73): Spoke with an industry personnel regarding this '' arrival tax " and she confirmed that it is indeed a new one.
Thanks airjamaica. The mention that the arrival tax will be increased by 20% is misleading so I'm still confused as to what increase is exactly meant with that 20%.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 71, posted (11 months 1 hour ago) and read 12899 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 75): Thanks airjamaica. The mention that the arrival tax will be increased by 20% is misleading so I'm still confused as to what increase is exactly meant with that 20%.
Yes the title of the original newspaper article is very misleading as the person I spoke with said previously there was no such tax imposed. What previously existed was a departure tax that formed part of the over all ticket price.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 76): Imagine not that long ago JM had 40-50% market share handily beating every one including AA.
Times have certainly changed. At one point JM peaked at 51%.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 72, posted (11 months 1 hour ago) and read 12903 times:
I glimpsed a carrier operating a MDE-MBJ service over this weekend..
Kingston will hit the headlines as all eyes will be on the National Trials which takes place this weekend..The event is being dubbed a preview to London 2012.
Another major agreement between Jamaica and Canada..
Canada's Minister of National Defence Peter MacKay who is on a two day visit to Jamaica has signed a memorandum of understanding for the establishment of an Operational Support Hub on the island.
Mr. MacKay signed the agreement yesterday with National Security Minister Peter Bunting.
Under the MOU, Canada now has pre-authorized arrangements with the Government to access existing airport, seaport, and other logistics support facilities in Jamaica.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 68): Reports indicate that AA remains the number one carrier to Jamaica, while B6 continues its upward trajectory where market share gain is concerned, particularly on the JFK route.........
'' But JetBlue already took a huge chunk of the New York destination from the former national carrier. It carried nine passengers for every 11 Caribbean carried within the market segment last year.
B6 has deployed their A320 on the first flight between KIN and FLL..Their "special fares" has certainly caught the attention of the travelling public.
This week they also started their 2nd daily JFK-KIN service..The service will not operate as a red eye service..
Tomorrow, they will announce SJU as their 6th focus city to operate flights to South and Central America..
Suspected that they wouldn't be going anywhere for a while where their inaugural is concerned.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 78): Another major agreement between Jamaica and Canada..
Great development. Speaking of Canada, I wonder how YYZ-KIN is faring off for WS so far ? Way too early to get a true picture but over time we will see.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 78): B6 has deployed their A320 on the first flight between KIN and FLL..Their "special fares" has certainly caught the attention of the travelling public.
This week they also started their 2nd daily JFK-KIN service..The service will not operate as a red eye service..
Tomorrow, they will announce SJU as their 6th focus city to operate flights to South and Central America..
Good to see that the A320 has been deployed on the morning flight from FLL. I notice that they have adjusted their time a bit for an earlier arrival/departure. That second JFK flight leave late evening. Curious to see what other destinations they will serve from SJU.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 75, posted (10 months 4 weeks 21 hours ago) and read 12665 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 65): Quite a blow if this is indeed the case. I recall pre merger/take over, LTU was a regular on DUS-MBJ for years. Used to enjoy watching their A330 in action down there. But it is just an overall indication as to how times have changed in the industry. They will be missed.
LTU started serving MBJ with their weekly Mon service..Over the years, the route has seen their L1011, MD11s, B767 and A330s.
LTU over the years has contributed for the growth in VFR traffic between DUS and MBJ..:D
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 73): Suspected that they wouldn't be going anywhere for a while where their inaugural is concerned.
I got an update..The aircraft is being returned to KIN..I hope they get to start soon..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 73): I wonder how YYZ-KIN is faring off for WS so far ? Way too early to get a true picture but over time we will see.
With the anticipated growth in traffic between YYZ and KIN due to the recent agreement between Canada and GOJ, I forsee WS being able to take a share of that market...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 73): Good to see that the A320 has been deployed on the morning flight from FLL. I notice that they have adjusted their time a bit for an earlier arrival/departure. That second JFK flight leave late evening.
I cant wait for them to add the third FLL-KIN service next year...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 73): Curious to see what other destinations they will serve from SJU.
BWI-SJU is on the cards...I expect them to take over some of Eagle routes within the region...
So after all the grand announcement, looks like the ATRs from BW will not be visiting Jamaican soil...
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 76, posted (10 months 4 weeks 7 hours ago) and read 12561 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 74): Do you have a source/link to B6 starting flights from SJU to South/Central America?
Don't have one. Read in the past that they had plans for expansion in the region from SJU.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): LTU started serving MBJ with their weekly Mon service..Over the years, the route has seen their L1011, MD11s, B767 and A330s.
When I used to work in ATC they were using the B767s.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): LTU over the years has contributed for the growth in VFR traffic between DUS and MBJ.
Wonder if DE or some other carrier will replace them in the future ? Time will tell.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): With the anticipated growth in traffic between YYZ and KIN due to the recent agreement between Canada and GOJ, I forsee WS being able to take a share of that market...
It is good that their metals are operating out of both MBJ and KIN. More options.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): I cant wait for them to add the third FLL-KIN service next year...
Looking out for a FLL-MBJ service sometime in the future as well. The E-190 is the perfect fit for that route I think.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): BWI-SJU is on the cards...I expect them to take over some of Eagle routes within the region...
I expect to see them in PAP one day as well.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 75): So after all the grand announcement, looks like the ATRs from BW will not be visiting Jamaican soil...
Dollars not stretching far enough to acquire all of them that were previously ordered.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 71): Yes the title of the original newspaper article is very misleading as the person I spoke with said previously there was no such tax imposed. What previously existed was a departure tax that formed part of the over all ticket price.
More info on the new taxes..
Jamaica will hit visitors with two new taxes this summer.
All international arriving visitors will be required to pay a new $20 arrival tax, effective Aug. 1.
This is in addition to a $20 arrival tax that took effect last October and a departure tax that is 1800 Jamaican dollars (about $20), meaning that visitors arriving by air will soon pay $60 just to visit Jamaica.
The new tax will be rolled into the price of the airline ticket, just like the two existing air taxes.
A new accommodations tax, effective Sept. 1, is set at $4 per room, per night for hotels with more than 100 guestrooms.
New nonstop flights and increased seasonal service from the U.S. to Jamaica total 60,000 more seats this summer than last, according to Jamaica.
A selection of summer flights includes Caribbean Airlines/Air Jamaica twice-weekly flights, available through mid-December, from Orlando to Kingston; a seasonal daily flight on American from Miami to Kingston through Aug. 20 and weekend service from Chicago to Montego Bay through Aug. 18; and twice-weekly flights from Chicago to Montego Bay through Aug. 16 via Apple Vacations.
Funjet Vacations added new twice-weekly flights from Dallas to Montego Bay through Aug. 10 and from St. Louis to Montego Bay twice a week through Aug. 4.
Continental's new flight from Houston to Montego Bay operates Saturdays through July. The carrier resumed its seasonal service from Newark to MoBay with five weekly flights in July and daily in August.
JetBlue's two new weekly flights from Fort Lauderdale to Kingston run through mid-December; the carrier resumed daily service from JFK to Kingston through Sept. 9 and to Montego Bay through Sept. 10.
Sunwing Airlines' weekly charters from Nashville to Montego Bay run through July 15 and from Cincinnati to Montego Bay through Oct. 27.
US Airways' Charlotte-Montego Bay Saturday service is offered through Aug. 25; its second daily flight from Philadelphia operates through Sept. 4 and the Washington-Montego Bay weekly flight runs through July.
United's new weekly service from Washington to Montego Bay operates through July.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 78, posted (10 months 4 weeks 1 hour ago) and read 12520 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 77): A tricky market to fill..I would say, the best bet is to try to combine MBJ with one of their 3 dailies to KIN in the near future..
Probably it would be safer for them to try this avenue if they do ever consider FLL-MBJ services in the future.
This '' new '' tax subject is a bit confusing as this article contradicts what I was told last week. Here they are saying that this usd 20 tax is in addition to one that was effected last October..........
Quote:
'' All international arriving visitors will be required to pay a new $20 arrival tax, effective Aug. 1.
This is in addition to a $20 arrival tax that took effect last October and a departure tax that is 1800 Jamaican dollars (about $20), meaning that visitors arriving by air will soon pay $60 just to visit Jamaica. ''
And on the other hand subsequent reports say it is a brand new tax.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 77): New nonstop flights and increased seasonal service from the U.S. to Jamaica total 60,000 more seats this summer than last, according to Jamaica.
Good to see the increases in both scheduled and seasonal services to the island, but I am quite concerned about the additional cost it will put on passengers wishing to visit/vacation here. Ironically they themselves are venting about the UK's imposition of the APD tax and how it will impact visitor arrivals to the region..... Time will tell how much of an effect this '' new/additional '' arrival tax will have on the stats, but should there be a decrease as a result of its imposition, they will have only themselves to blame.
yellowtail From United States of America, joined Jun 2005, 5161 posts, RR: 2 Reply 79, posted (10 months 4 weeks 1 hour ago) and read 12506 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 77): Continental's new flight from Houston to Montego Bay operates Saturdays through July. The carrier resumed its seasonal service from Newark to MoBay with five weekly flights in July and daily in August.
CO (UA) only has 1Xweekly IAH-MBJ?
When in doubt, hold on to your altitude. No-one has ever collided with the sky.
They operate 8 weekly..Two flights operate on Sat.
Congrats to our qualifiers at last night's National Trials..I was watching the event online when I glimpsed a flyover by FlyJam...I was informed the announcer mentioned them as our new National Airline..As we say, "out with the old, in with the new"..
---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is a good read..
Quote: "Air Jamaica has been operating in Philadelphia for more than 30 years. At the time there was no competition," said a veteran pilot.
At the time, he said, the airline flew daily from Philadelphia to Montego Bay then to Kingston.
"We had a daily service which was well supported by ethnic groups as well as numerous tourists.
"However, since Caribbean Airlines took over operations, a major US carrier called Cactus emerged on the horizon," said the pilot. "The team from Cactus came in, studied (Air Jamaica), and tried new strategies but to no avail."
He charged that the same treatment was not extended to Caribbean Airlines when it assumed responsibility by way of succession. "Now they have decided that it can't work as Philadelphia was not making any money."
Cactus Airlines reportedly moved in when Caribbean Airlines reduced flights into Philadelphia to three times a week. The competition swiftly moved to fill the gap by reducing its fares to the bare minimum on the (three) days that Caribbean Airlines operated.
"You pay premium on the days that we do not operate. People gravitated to the competition. Having squandered one of the best opportunities given to them, they say they will have to leave the route alone because it is losing money," he complained.
Online checks by The Gleaner revealed that Cactus charged US$357 round fare compared to US$700 for Caribbean Airlines.
Well '' Cactus '' is the official call sign of US. The reporter in the article refer to them as '' Cactus Airlines ''. Lol.
US started PHL-MBJ long before BW's take over of JM contrary to what the article implies. I wasn't aware that BW had reduced the PHL-MBJ frequency to 3x weekly. Thought it was 4x. The ticket price variation between the two carriers is quite notable. At that rate people would inevitably gravitate towards US if they really wanted to save money. The scenario reminds me of DL's entry on ATL-MBJ when the former JM was flying the route.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 82, posted (10 months 3 weeks 1 day 8 hours ago) and read 12149 times:
As was previously reported, plans are in place to have passengers move through both international airports more expeditiously, particularly at MBJ during peak travel seasons. This applies to both departing and arriving passengers..............
'' The Passport, Immigration and Citizenship Agency (PICA) should be in a position to test the system that will replace passenger contact with outgoing immigration as of this September.
And by the start of the winter tourist season, passengers departing the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, will no longer need to stop at immigration after they have checked in for their flights.
The island's immigration officers have gained access to the Advanced Passenger Information System (APIS), which is used by airlines worldwide. Through this system, they are able to access the airport's Common Use Terminal Equipment. ''
Seem FlyJamaica is hoping to start operations in August...........................
'' Fly Jamaica Airways, a new airline set to begin operations in Jamaica in August, is taking the owners and partners close to a year to officially take to the skies.
Fly Jamaica Airways is a partnership between chief executive officer (CEO), Guyana-born Paul Ronald Reece and three Jamaican shareholders including Chief Operating Officer (COO) Captain Lloyd Tai and manager of in-flight services, Christine Steele. Reece is also the owner of Wings Aviation Inc, based in Guyana. ''
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 83, posted (10 months 3 weeks 22 hours ago) and read 12063 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 81): I notice in the previous article they gave the impression that B6's FLL-KIN service is seasonal. I thought this was a year round schedule............
Year round service..In Sept, they revert to 2 daily E190s.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 82): As was previously reported, plans are in place to have passengers move through both international airports more expeditiously, particularly at MBJ during peak travel seasons. This applies to both departing and arriving passengers..............
Its about time...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 82): Fly Jamaica Airways is a partnership between chief executive officer (CEO), Guyana-born Paul Ronald Reece and three Jamaican shareholders including Chief Operating Officer (COO) Captain Lloyd Tai and manager of in-flight services, Christine Steele. Reece is also the owner of Wings Aviation Inc, based in Guyana. ''
I heard they delays associated with their starting, is the rigorous compliance checks from JCAA..But rest assured, based on the comments I have seen, FlyJAm will be around for a long time...
Visa restrictions to be eased for emerging countries..
“We are working with the Ministry of National Security to remove the barriers to entry for visitors from the new and emerging markets, which we are now entering, such as visa requirements. We have already started this process with the revision of visa requirements for persons from Latin American countries,” he said.
Dr. McNeill said the Government has already secured a one year extension on the visa waivers for persons from Colombia, Venezuela and Panama.
He pointed out that revision of visa requirements for countries in Eastern Europe such as Russia, Hungary, Poland, Ukraine, the Czech Republic, and Slovakia, have also been requested. “The fact is Jamaica has to revisit its approach to travel facilitation,” he said.
I note they will have a daily frequency on the JFK-MBJ route come winter. Was that frequency always the case during that period or was it usually a 1x weekly ?
The subject of the implications of the new taxes where the islands tourism industry is concerned again takes the spotlight.............
'' Bartlett noted that the industry already has Departure tax US$20, TEF (Tourism Enhancement Fund) Tax US$20, Airport taxes US$15, Travel Ticket US$20, and Hotel US$4. "
'' Passenger Duty APD of 92 pounds ( sterling ), we are around US$480 in taxes. That can buy them a week in Cancun, Punta Cana or Cuba, he explained. "
Real cause for concern I think. Certainly they cant expect visitors to flock to Jamaica in droves if they will have to dig extremely deep into their pockets for a few days on the island, especially when there are locations nearby that are more competitively priced. Lets see how it will play out.
There is a wax replica of lightning '' Bolt '' at LHR's terminal 5........................
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 85, posted (10 months 1 week 5 days 19 hours ago) and read 11600 times:
Seem Exec Direct have plans to expand its cargo offerings to/from Jamaica.....................
'' AIR cargo carrier Exec Direct Aviation (EDA) is awaiting approval to expand into the transportation of dangerous goods (DG).
EDA, which claims to be Jamaica's first all-cargo airline, has applied with the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority to ship DGs, which include materials that are radioactive, explosive or flammable. ''
Good to see a local air cargo operation holding its own despite competition from other carriers and the general challenging environment in which they operate.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 86, posted (10 months 1 week 3 days 16 hours ago) and read 11359 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 84): I note they will have a daily frequency on the JFK-MBJ route come winter. Was that frequency always the case during that period or was it usually a 1x weekly ?
During the height of their service, which goes two years back, they would operate daily service....Last winter, they reverted to a 1weekly service..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 84): There is a wax replica of lightning '' Bolt '' at LHR's terminal 5........................
Am sure, many will agree, but I think this new administration is not using Bolt's image to their advantage...
I was expecting a fond farewell and media fanfare for our athletes who will represent us at the London Games
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 85): Good to see a local air cargo operation holding its own despite competition from other carriers and the general challenging environment in which they operate.
Good move...
This story had me laughing.....I wonder what other skeletons are waiting in the closet..
The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has instructed national carrier Caribbean Airlines (CAL) to drop its Air Jamaica (AJ) brand from its aircraft.
The Sunday Express understands that use of the AJ brand does not comply with CAL’s airline operator certificate.
Despite the acquisition of AJ routes, CAL is not licensed to operate two brands but has been doing so for over a year.
For CAL to use the AJ brand, it will have to register a new airline in the name of Air Jamaica.
CAL, the Sunday Express understands, was alerted about this disparity by CAA a few months ago as it sought to improve its systems ahead of a planned audit by the international Federal Aviation Authority (FAA).
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 87, posted (10 months 1 week 20 hours ago) and read 11139 times:
Looks like AA is dropping fares in an effort to maintain market share..I had no idea, they worked closely with Loshusan Supermarket which is located in the affluent Barbican area..
The sign at the entrance to the Loshusan Supermarket in Barbican says: 'Great Low Fare USD$69' (Taxes not included special/conditions apply). This advertised fare is actually one way, so the total cost that includes US$135 in taxes and fees is US$273, or approximately J$24297, when calculated at the day's rate of exchange.
Other low one-way fares displayed are: New York for US$124 (approximately J$34,087); Orlando for US$124 (approximately J$34,087) and Los Angeles for US$224 (approximately J$39,872).
Caribbean Airlines is to pay approximately US$1.5 million in outstanding airport fees and taxes to two Jamaican entities by July 31.
The Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority is owed US$1 million while the Norman Manley International Airport is owed US$500,000.
Trinidad’s Minister of Transport, Devant Maharaj and the Minister of Trade, Industry and Investment, Vasant Bharath were advised of the bill during a meeting in Kingston with officials of Jamaica's Ministry of Transport and Works.
GOVERNMENT is yet to be officially informed about the decision to remove the Air Jamaica logo from Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) planes, days after reports that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in Trinidad had instructed the airline to drop the Air Jamaica brand.
"Cabinet has not been notified formally and we have not seen any reports, so I would not want to comment on that," Information Minister Sandrea Falconer told journalists at the weekly Jamaica House press briefing at the Office of the Prime Minister in Kingston yesterday.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 88, posted (10 months 6 days 20 hours ago) and read 10991 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 86): This story had me laughing.....I wonder what other skeletons are waiting in the closet..
One can't help but to wonder what's next. Personally I am getting tired of the never ending saga.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 87): Looks like AA is dropping fares in an effort to maintain market share..I had no idea, they worked closely with Loshusan Supermarket which is located in the affluent Barbican area..
AA relocated their ticket office from the business district of New Kingston ( Trafalgar Road ) to Barbican for some time now. I wasn't aware that they operated from inside the Loshusan supermarket. The fare conversions posted by the newspaper reporter is misleading. The US$ amount displayed is one way, but the JA$ equivalent is actually two way but they didn't specify that. The only way I would fly AA to say MCO or JFK is if by comparison their fares are significantly less expensive than the competition. Not enthusiastic re changing planes at MIA again, though I read where that process should be less hassling now ( or in the near future ) but my past experiences transferring there wasn't particularly hassle free.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 87): Caribbean Airlines is to pay approximately US$1.5 million in outstanding airport fees and taxes to two Jamaican entities by July 31.
Seem they are mired with outstanding bills all over.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 87): GOVERNMENT is yet to be officially informed about the decision to remove the Air Jamaica logo from Caribbean Airlines Limited (CAL) planes, days after reports that the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) in Trinidad had instructed the airline to drop the Air Jamaica brand.
And the saga continues. Mr. Derby wants proof....................
'' Director General of the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority Lt Colonel Oscar Derby wants proof from his Trinidad counterparts of the regulatory requirement on dual branding, which has led to them dropping the Air Jamaica brand from Caribbean Airlines ( CAL ) .
JM017 From Jamaica, joined Jun 2002, 1222 posts, RR: 1 Reply 89, posted (10 months 6 days 5 hours ago) and read 10885 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 88): '' Director General of the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority Lt Colonel Oscar Derby wants proof from his Trinidad counterparts of the regulatory requirement on dual branding, which has led to them dropping the Air Jamaica brand from Caribbean Airlines ( CAL ) .
Sorry, but is that the best response that can be mustered? He wants proof? This has been brandied about in the press (and on a.net) for some time now, with no one denying the re-branding and recently the reasons for it. Shouldn't the government now be looking to other options at this point?
"It's okay to cheat, if you just really don't like to lose."
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 91, posted (10 months 4 days 22 hours ago) and read 10725 times:
Quoting JM017 (Reply 89): Sorry, but is that the best response that can be mustered? He wants proof? This has been brandied about in the press (and on a.net) for some time now, with no one denying the re-branding and recently the reasons for it. Shouldn't the government now be looking to other options at this point?
Well it just goes to show the comical nature of the entire situation.
Quoting A388 (Reply 90): I thought you might find these photos of mine interesting:
Great photos as usual A388. I happened to stumble upon the left one last week and decided to use it as the wall paper on my cell. Regardless of what some may have thought of the '' authentic '' JM livery back then, I maintain it was one of the coolest and most daring liveries ever to grace the skies. An eye catcher indeed ......Unlike the many '' colourless whites '' we see flying around today all over the globe.
JM017 From Jamaica, joined Jun 2002, 1222 posts, RR: 1 Reply 92, posted (10 months 4 days 21 hours ago) and read 10697 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 91): Great photos as usual A388. I happened to stumble upon the left one last week and decided to use it as the wall paper on my cell. Regardless of what some may have thought of the '' authentic '' JM livery back then, I maintain it was one of the coolest and most daring liveries ever to grace the skies. An eye catcher indeed ......Unlike the many '' colourless whites '' we see flying around today all over the globe.
I agree. I loved the "butch" livery. And I was slow to warm up to it when it was released. I grew up in the age of the classic livery (sans blue).
But you brought up something i never thought to do: use one of these as my phone's wallpaper.
"It's okay to cheat, if you just really don't like to lose."
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 93, posted (10 months 4 days 20 hours ago) and read 10673 times:
Quoting JM017 (Reply 92): I agree. I loved the "butch" livery. And I was slow to warm up to it when it was released. I grew up in the age of the classic livery (sans blue).
Even the classic livery that existed prior to the one that was unveiled at the start of the '' butch '' livery was quite a standout as well. I liked both of them actually.
Quoting JM017 (Reply 92): But you brought up something i never thought to do: use one of these as my phone's wallpaper.
They do make an interesting photo backdrop. Also use one for my laptop ( close up of one of their former A320s making a sharp turn for departure line up at MIA ) Not changing that wall paper any time soon
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 94, posted (10 months 4 days 18 hours ago) and read 10639 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 93): Even the classic livery that existed prior to the one that was unveiled at the start of the '' butch '' livery was quite a standout as well. I liked both of them actually.
Thanks for the nice comments on my photos airjamaica and JM017. I also like that livery a lot but I also liked the classic yellow/orange/pink one. I build a 747-200 scale model from the brand Revel if memory serves me well and painted it with the yellow/orange/pink JM colors, excellent!!!
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 93): They do make an interesting photo backdrop. Also use one for my laptop ( close up of one of their former A320s making a sharp turn for departure line up at MIA ) Not changing that wall paper any time soon
Hahaha, use my photos however you want to my friends, wallpapers, presentations, billboards
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 95, posted (10 months 3 days 22 hours ago) and read 10527 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 94): I build a 747-200 scale model from the brand Revel if memory serves me well and painted it with the yellow/orange/pink JM colors, excellent!!!
Interesting. Speaking about the B742, I recall back in the day JM chartered a B741 from EI for a period during the 1980's....
With the majority of the EI livery still intact.
Seem WS's future looks promising on their recently launched YYZ-KIN route. They have already decided to make the service a year round one...
'' WestJet's upcoming winter schedule will also extend nonstop service between Toronto Pearson and Kingston, Jamaica, from seasonal to year-round status "
They took the same approach when they initially started their YYZ-MBJ services. 3x weekly seasonally then eventually upgrading it to a year round service.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 97, posted (10 months 3 days 21 hours ago) and read 10499 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 102): Is there year round demand on the YYZ KIN route for three carriers? If not who is going to be squeezed out?
It will be battle royal indeed between the 3 carriers operating YYZ-KIN. There will now be a combined 13 - 15 weekly flights during the peak periods. As for who will eventually stay/jump ship on that route ? AC is going no where I think and will endeavour to protect their market share as much as they possibly can. But only time will tell.
Looks like its a twice weekly charter that operates on Thurs and Sun..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 94): Hopefully MBJ will be up there as well in the future.
Am surprised MBJ is not in the top position..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 97): Well it just goes to show the comical nature of the entire situation.
Funny indeed...Time to close the doors and start with the new..
Quoting JM017 (Reply 98): I agree. I loved the "butch" livery. And I was slow to warm up to it when it was released. I grew up in the age of the classic livery (sans blue).
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 99): Even the classic livery that existed prior to the one that was unveiled at the start of the '' butch '' livery was quite a standout as well. I liked both of them actually.
I still have vivid memories when the new colors were launched on the B727..It was a new day in Jamaica's aviation industry..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 101): Interesting. Speaking about the B742, I recall back in the day JM chartered a B741 from EI for a period during the 1980's....
I wonder where they deployed these aircraft in the 80s?
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 101): Seem WS's future looks promising on their recently launched YYZ-KIN route. They have already decided to make the service a year round one...
'' WestJet's upcoming winter schedule will also extend nonstop service between Toronto Pearson and Kingston, Jamaica, from seasonal to year-round status "
No surprise here..From the onset I believed WS would be able to remain in the market despite competition from existing carriers AC and BW..The KIN-YYZ market is growing and WS with it's lower fares will stimulate demand..
Quoting guyanam (Reply 102): Is there year round demand on the YYZ KIN route for three carriers? If not who is going to be squeezed out?
Soon to be four, when Fly Jam launches service next month..I believe the market can handle 3 and I will predict after this summer, BW will close or scale down it's Jamaican ops..
-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------
WN has increased BWI-MBJ to 11 weekly for the upcoming winter season.The new flights will operate Thurs-Sun..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 99, posted (10 months 1 day 9 hours ago) and read 10282 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 98): Am surprised MBJ is not in the top position..
Maybe when they fully complete their renovation of the facility, and also rectify the issue of long queues at immigration during the peak periods, they will be among the top on the list. None the less I would have thought that they would still be among the current listing, with all the transformation that has taken place over the last couple of years.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 98): I still have vivid memories when the new colors were launched on the B727..It was a new day in Jamaica's aviation industry..
That was the first time I ever experienced the B727. Did a short MBJ-KIN hop on one of them back then. It was operating JM 027 on a MBJ-KIN-MIA routing.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 98): I wonder where they deployed these aircraft in the 80s?
Not too sure, but I would say LHR perhaps. Or is it JM didn't operate to the UK during that time ? The only other destinations I can think of is JFK and YYZ ( ? )
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 98): No surprise here..From the onset I believed WS would be able to remain in the market despite competition from existing carriers AC and BW..The KIN-YYZ market is growing and WS with it's lower fares will stimulate demand..
Seem WS is determined to make KIN work for them just like they did with MBJ, albeit operating in a less leisure oriented environment now.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 98): AFR has returned its weekly PTP-MBJ service for the summer..
Even at 1x weekly, I cant imagine an A320 filled with passengers flying between PTP and MBJ. But the fact that they have again resumed their seasonal flights, it must be working out for them some way or another.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 98): WN has increased BWI-MBJ to 11 weekly for the upcoming winter season.The new flights will operate Thurs-Sun..
They are certainly enjoying the monopoly on that sector.
As expected, BA flights into LGW from KIN are packed with locals heading to the much anticipated Olympic Games. Many passengers who are not able to get on the nonstops from KIN have to fly AA to MIA and connect with a LHR bound carrier ( AA, VS or BA )...........................
'' The airline has since increased to three, its twice-weekly non-stop flights from Kingston to Gatwick to accommodate the large number of travellers. '' This change was based on a number of factors, not just demand as a result of one event " the airline said.
The airline said it was also seeing some travellers flying to London via Miami, through its partnership with American Airlines. According to BA, there has been a slight trend towards earlier bookings for travel this summer, with many persons securing their seats as soon as the fares became available last year. ''
I guess many passengers from Kingston who couldn't get on BA also opted to take the Knutsford Express to Montego Bay, and catch VS to LGW from there. Wanted to be in London for this event as well but next time. Who knows, maybe I will make it to Rio in 2016. If I do, it will definately be on CM KIN-PTY-RIO-PTY-KIN. Cheaper and more convenient than flying through MIA.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 100, posted (10 months 2 hours ago) and read 10180 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 99): Not too sure, but I would say LHR perhaps. Or is it JM didn't operate to the UK during that time ? The only other destinations I can think of is JFK and YYZ ( ? )
My grandfather flew on the B747 between MBJ and JFK...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 99): Seem WS is determined to make KIN work for them just like they did with MBJ, albeit operating in a less leisure oriented environment now.
I expect to see at least an increase to 5 or 6 weekly for summer 2012..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 99): They are certainly enjoying the monopoly on that sector.
Sad to see them leave ATL-MBJ, but hopefully they will launch DAL-MBJ..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 99): '' The airline has since increased to three, its twice-weekly non-stop flights from Kingston to Gatwick to accommodate the large number of travellers. '' This change was based on a number of factors, not just demand as a result of one event " the airline said.
The airline said it was also seeing some travellers flying to London via Miami, through its partnership with American Airlines. According to BA, there has been a slight trend towards earlier bookings for travel this summer, with many persons securing their seats as soon as the fares became available last year. ''
Am not surprised that BA/AA is enjoying this monopoly..Their JV is working in their best interest on this route..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 99): I guess many passengers from Kingston who couldn't get on BA also opted to take the Knutsford Express to Montego Bay, and catch VS to LGW from there. Wanted to be in London for this event as well but next time. Who knows, maybe I will make it to Rio in 2016. If I do, it will definately be on CM KIN-PTY-RIO-PTY-KIN. Cheaper and more convenient than flying through MIA.
Hopefully, we will be able to secure a regular Jamaica-Brazil flights...I expect far more Jamaicans to travel to Brazil in 2016..
Speaking of Olympics, another boost for Jamaica..Usain Bolt's pic was plastered on The House of Parliament..
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 101, posted (9 months 3 weeks 4 days 5 hours ago) and read 9926 times:
Starting mid Aug, B6 will be upgrading the second FLL-KIN flight to an A320...With this new upgrade, KIN will be seeing 4 B6 A320s for the rest of the summer..2 ex JFK and 2 ex FLL...
Also, I was informed the JFK flights are going out full, so most people are opting for the FLL connections to KIN..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 102, posted (9 months 3 weeks 3 days 6 hours ago) and read 9817 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 100): Sad to see them leave ATL-MBJ, but hopefully they will launch DAL-MBJ..
Wasn't aware that they were axing their ATL-MBJ service. If it was previously mentioned in our thread I guess I just cant recall.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 101): Starting mid Aug, B6 will be upgrading the second FLL-KIN flight to an A320...With this new upgrade, KIN will be seeing 4 B6 A320s for the rest of the summer..2 ex JFK and 2 ex FLL...
Also, I was informed the JFK flights are going out full, so most people are opting for the FLL connections to KIN..
Interesting. FLL-KIN seem to be gaining more and more traction where popularity is concerned for B6. Not surprising however.
I heard Fly Jam start up is still being faced with bureaucracy...But, it was uttered that aircraft #2 is being looked at...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 102): Wasn't aware that they were axing their ATL-MBJ service. If it was previously mentioned in our thread I guess I just cant recall.
Hopefully, DL will add a widebody on one of their 4 daily flights..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 102): Interesting. FLL-KIN seem to be gaining more and more traction where popularity is concerned for B6. Not surprising however.
JM017 From Jamaica, joined Jun 2002, 1222 posts, RR: 1 Reply 104, posted (9 months 2 weeks 5 days 7 hours ago) and read 9480 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 109): I heard Fly Jam start up is still being faced with bureaucracy...But, it was uttered that aircraft #2 is being looked at...
Oh boy....is the source of the delay local? I am not putting you on the spot. I just really hope they are given a chance to succeed.
Happy Independence Day!! (a day late, I know...)
"It's okay to cheat, if you just really don't like to lose."
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 106, posted (9 months 2 weeks 2 days 16 hours ago) and read 9301 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 103): At an Independence Celebration in South Florida, Afiwi Air CEO mentioned, the upcoming new airline will be serving Jamaica from South Florida and New York..
This is the only information, I have on Afiwi Air.. http://www.corporationwiki.com/Flori....aspx
Considering the difficult environment airlines operate in today, I am surprised there is now news of yet another start up. We will see how this ( other ) one play out.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 103): I heard Fly Jam start up is still being faced with bureaucracy...But, it was uttered that aircraft #2 is being looked at...
Quoting JM017 (Reply 104): Oh boy....is the source of the delay local? I am not putting you on the spot. I just really hope they are given a chance to succeed.
I feel they will remain on the ground for quite some time to come.
Come next month the runway at Sangster International Airport ( MBJ ) will be resurfaced. This project will last 6 to eight months.........................
'' MBJ Airports Limited, which operates the Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, St James, will begin a US$22-million resurface of the runway starting next month, resulting in the runway closing an hour earlier than the normal curfew.
Management said it has liaised with airlines to avoid a loss of passenger volumes. ''
Thought they had started this project already. Lets hope it is not drawn out. Wonder what is the current status on the new control towers for both airports ?
* Happy ( belated ) Independence and congrats to our athletes on their performance in London. They have really made us proud again.
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 107, posted (9 months 2 weeks 2 days 7 hours ago) and read 9238 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 106): Come next month the runway at Sangster International Airport ( MBJ ) will be resurfaced.
This project will last 6 to eight months.........................
Interesting and good to read. Seeing the amount of investment, will the runway be broken up en resurfaced from the ground or will there only be applied a new layer of asphalt(?) Will the PCN value be increased as well? What is the PCN of the runway now?
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 108, posted (9 months 2 weeks 1 day 22 hours ago) and read 9166 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 107): Interesting and good to read. Seeing the amount of investment, will the runway be broken up en resurfaced from the ground or will there only be applied a new layer of asphalt(?) Will the PCN value be increased as well? What is the PCN of the runway now?
I am not 100% certain if the runway will be broken up and resurfaced, but in the past when they did mention the planned resurfacing project, I got the impression that it would have been a new layer of asphalt. But yes, the value of the investment that the article quoted would give another impression. I am of the assumption that the PCN value will be increased, but I cannot confirm that either unfortunately, so hopefully more detailed information on the project will be forthcoming in the near future. The PCN of MBJ's runway is 063FAWT according to the link below :
A388 From Netherlands Antilles, joined May 2001, 9077 posts, RR: 13 Reply 109, posted (9 months 1 week 6 days ago) and read 8980 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 108): I am not 100% certain if the runway will be broken up and resurfaced, but in the past when they did mention the planned resurfacing project, I got the impression that it would have been a new layer of asphalt. But yes, the value of the investment that the article quoted would give another impression. I am of the assumption that the PCN value will be increased, but I cannot confirm that either unfortunately, so hopefully more detailed information on the project will be forthcoming in the near future. The PCN of MBJ's runway is 063FAWT according to the link below :
Hello airjamaica, thanks for the information and my apologies for the late reply as I'm a bit busy. Please keep me informed about the details of the runway resurfacing at MBJ. You can also send me an email or pm.
cotparampguy From United States of America, joined Jul 2008, 204 posts, RR: 0 Reply 110, posted (9 months 1 week 5 days 22 hours ago) and read 8959 times:
Both of the B6 FLL-KIN flights go out full every day. Sometimes the E190s bulk out and we have to leave baggage behind.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 111, posted (9 months 1 week 5 days 21 hours ago) and read 8948 times:
Quoting JM017 (Reply 104): Oh boy....is the source of the delay local? I am not putting you on the spot. I just really hope they are given a chance to succeed.
Definitely...I heard, they completed their initial tests and are waiting for the JCAA..
Quoting JM017 (Reply 104): Happy Independence Day!! (a day late, I know...)
lol..
Quoting A388 (Reply 105): ngratulations to all our Jamaican friends here and also on the great achievements at the Olympics!!! Excellent work!!!
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 106): Considering the difficult environment airlines operate in today, I am surprised there is now news of yet another start up. We will see how this ( other ) one play out.
Am actually excited about this venture..We certainly have learnt from our mistakes with JM..With a thriving aviation industry and a worldwide brand image..Its about time we let the private sector handle our airlines..
As witnessed every regional airline has failed at the hands of the Govt..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 106): * Happy ( belated ) Independence and congrats to our athletes on their performance in London. They have really made us proud again.
I agree..We are The Land of World Class Sprinter....Our athletes did us proud..I must extend a special thanks to Usain for being a brand Ambassador for Jamaica..
I hope we will one day see his picture on the fuselage of a Jamaican carrier..Despite the criticisms , he is a track legend..The IOC has endorsed this status as only Bolt and Jamaica's performance can gross high sales at Olympic Track and Field Events..
Quoting cotparampguy (Reply 116): Both of the B6 FLL-KIN flights go out full every day. Sometimes the E190s bulk out and we have to leave baggage behind.
The route has proven to be a stellar performer...Can't wait for them to add the 3rd daily next year..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 112, posted (9 months 1 week 5 days 14 hours ago) and read 8886 times:
Quoting A388 (Reply 109): Hello airjamaica, thanks for the information and my apologies for the late reply as I'm a bit busy. Please keep me informed about the details of the runway resurfacing at MBJ. You can also send me an email or pm.
No problem. Will pass on any information I receive.
Quoting cotparampguy (Reply 110): Both of the B6 FLL-KIN flights go out full every day. Sometimes the E190s bulk out and we have to leave baggage behind.
Thanks for the update. Can't say I am surprised. They have a very good product and competitive fares to go along with that as well. As I always say, B6 must be wondering why they took so long to serve Jamaica.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 111): We are The Land of World Class Sprinter....Our athletes did us proud
Sprint factory indeed !!
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 111): The route has proven to be a stellar performer...Can't wait for them to add the 3rd daily next year..
There were some who doubted that this route would be successful, but I was confident it would eventually do well, even though they started out with less that impressive bookings on some of their initial flights.
JM017 From Jamaica, joined Jun 2002, 1222 posts, RR: 1 Reply 115, posted (9 months 1 week 5 hours ago) and read 8578 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 113):
Well I just heard on the Nightly News tonight that they will possibly take to the skies in a matter of weeks. Lets see what will transpire.
Well, I suppose that is something. Thanks for the update.
Their website has been "under construction" for eight months
"It's okay to cheat, if you just really don't like to lose."
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 116, posted (9 months 5 days 5 hours ago) and read 8445 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 113): Well I just heard on the Nightly News tonight that they will possibly take to the skies in a matter of weeks. Lets see what will transpire.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 114): Nothing in Guyana's media yet. Must cost a pretty penny to have the 752 just sitting waiting.
Quoting JM017 (Reply 115): Well, I suppose that is something. Thanks for the update.
Their website has been "under construction" for eight months
Looks like Jamaica will see 36,000 new seats next year from the UK..
Among the things they said were achieved in England were:
* Meetings with over 300 travel agents and tour operators;
* 600 accredited media filing stories about Jamaica House;
* More than 2,000 visitors to Jamaica House per day for 10 days;
* 36,000 new seats from UK confirmed for next year;
* Meetings with 500 potential investors, distributors and business partners;
* 13 investment leads made in manufacturing and business process outsourcing, etc
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 118, posted (9 months 3 days 21 hours ago) and read 8313 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 117): Another 752 in GEO, good news. Wouldn't it be better if they used a 738/737 to do that route before moving to the bigger 752?
I heard they haven their final proving flight with JCAA on Friday..Scheduled start date is Oct 3..
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 116): Looks like Jamaica will see 36,000 new seats next year from the UK..
6,000 additional airlift seats from the United Kingdom has been secured, which will start in the summer of 2013, according to the Minister of Tourism and Entertainment, Dr. Wykeham McNeill. During yesterday's Post-Olympic press conference the portfolio Minister revealed that 25,000 seats was secured with UK-Based Virgin Holidays which confirmed another flight from Gatwick, London to Montego Bay and 11,000 new seats had been secured after TUI finalised an extra fortnightly flight for the winter to Mobay with weekly flights in the summer. According to the JIS, these were secured during promotions for Brand Jamaica during the London 2012. Minister McNeill also stated that interest in Jamaica continues its global growth with arrivals from May to August seeing a 6 per cent increase for the corresponding period last year.
Any idea if they will be using any Guyanese on their staff, including flight crew, or is it all former AJ staff? Interesting that they plan on flying to JFK, YYZ, KIN and GEO, up against some stiff competition. I wonder what they plan on doing different to attract pax.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 120, posted (9 months 3 days 15 hours ago) and read 8269 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 114): Nothing in Guyana's media yet. Must cost a pretty penny to have the 752 just sitting waiting.
Yes it has been there for quite sometime now.
Quoting JM017 (Reply 115): Their website has been "under construction" for eight months
Time is certainly flying by quickly.Wasn't aware it was that long.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 117): Another 752 in GEO, good news. Wouldn't it be better if they used a 738/737 to do that route before moving to the bigger 752?
Maybe they got the B752 for a very reasonable price.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 118): Apple Vacation will launch seasonal winter flights from RFD and DTW into MBJ..F9 will operate the once weekly RFD-MBJ flights..
Apple Vacations/F9 seem to be getting even more and more aggressive with their offerings to popular vacation destinations.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 119): I wonder what they plan on doing different to attract pax.
Well if/when they do get off the ground, naturally their main target will be those in the diaspora, as indicated by the markets they initially intend to serve. Will be very interesting to see what they will bring to the table. Personally I am not feeling the name or livery of the carrier. Hopefully they eventually change both to something more suitable.
GUYAIR707 From Guyana, joined Jan 2011, 562 posts, RR: 0 Reply 121, posted (9 months 3 days 15 hours ago) and read 8254 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 120): Maybe they got the B752 for a very reasonable price.
Yeah it's my favourite a/c, and maybe when they started planning EZjet wasn't around.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 120): Personally I am not feeling the name or livery of the carrier. Hopefully they eventually change both to something more suitable.
Looks like they just wanted to get into the air quickly so they did a basic livery. I do believe they are working on the void from the soon to be gone AJ name, using the Jamaican name to encourage support. The thing is about Caribbean based airlines as with most, the pockets have to be deep, as the market is limited. They have to find some kind of niche. Or else, go big like the Copa or Emirates model. The 1 a/c airline is always at risk when it comes to scheduling. Just check EZjet. I want to support them but I am afraid they will leave me stranded.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 122, posted (9 months 3 days 7 hours ago) and read 8213 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 119): Any idea if they will be using any Guyanese on their staff, including flight crew, or is it all former AJ staff? Interesting that they plan on flying to JFK, YYZ, KIN and GEO, up against some stiff competition. I wonder what they plan on doing different to attract pax.
All cabin crew will be ex JM staff..Am not sure about their pilots...From what I was told, they have their marketing plans in place to capture local GEO traffic...
In the end, the market will be saturated with carriers who will stimulate growth...
Based on your knowledge of the GEO market do you really think that it can suppoprt 4 carriers to JFK and 3 to YYZ. Given that BW/DL are entrenched and EZ has been around long enough to get its market share I only wonder why thes efolks think that GEO is an option.
They ought to focus on the KIN/MBJ to FLL/JFK, maybe YYZ.......although that is another overcrowded market with BW/AC/WS.
I can see it being very difficult, the plus is that they are catering to MBJ/KIN also, so they can quit GEO at any time. I am sure that the fares will continue to be great, good news for FF like me.
The CEO is Guyanese, and he has had the name Air Guyana locked down for a while, if I am correct, so he is probably interested in getting an airline into GEO. However, I do believe he was trying to do this for a while, but since the market is in flux EZjet came in while he was waiting. I would not put it past the GoG to have him held up to make sure EZjet debuted before him.
This recent article, if it is to be believed says EZjet is working on regional flights:
I have no clue where this guy gets his news, but I have not heard about this or seen it in the Guyana media. EZjet did publish a regional a/c in their colours on their Facebook page saying this is what it would look like, but that is it. If it is true then they are getting funding from some very deep pockets.
Though I am an airbus fan, the B752 is a versatile chunk of '' metal '' indeed.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 127): I do believe they are working on the void from the soon to be gone AJ name, using the Jamaican name to encourage support.
No doubt they will make a concerted effort to capitalize on that.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 127): The 1 a/c airline is always at risk when it comes to scheduling. Just check EZjet. I want to support them but I am afraid they will leave me stranded.
That concern from travelers is quite understandable.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 124): This recent article, if it is to be believed says EZjet is working on regional flights:
Quote :
'' Ramdeo, in another attack of CAL, blamed the Trinidad airline for a delay in restarting service following an accident at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) a few weeks ago. He claimed that parts necessary to repair the EZjet aircraft got '' lost '' on a CAL flight, but were found two days after EZjet was back in the air. ''
Lol.....That last part of the article is humorous.
At the launching of the EZjet YYZ route mention was made of a regional service. I find the rant against BW interesting given that it was EZjet which intrioduced low fares and boasted about it. Did he not think that BW and DL would ahve responded?
If redjet didnt make it with a larger market in BGI there is no reason wh EZjet will succeed. That wil be its demise.
BW has more to worry about from FJA, as they seem to be holding their own against EZjet, at least on the JFK route. However while many Jcans feel angered by the loss of the "little piece of Jamaica which flies", I do not think that they will gallop to a new one plane carrier either, until it proves itself. After all people need to be assured that they will get fro point A to point B when they are supposed to.
Are these figures always published so late? Seems like BW, while their loads are good, cannot get a handle on tourist pax. They could not succeed in MIA, and them choosing not to do the MBJ-MCO speaks volumes. In addition, their bread and butter is being eroded by B6, such as JFK.
Also the MCO KIN is not accurate. If you look at the seats its clear that they are allocating 100% to KIN even though many, some say most, are going on to POS, with a few even to GEO. So we know that MCO KIN has decent loads, but thios isnt to say that into KIN they are doing well.
Quoting guyanam (Reply 134): Also the MCO KIN is not accurate. If you look at the seats its clear that they are allocating 100% to KIN even though many, some say most, are going on to POS, with a few even to GEO. So we know that MCO KIN has decent loads, but thios isnt to say that into KIN they are doing well.
They are published every third Thursday of the month
These are the breakdowns of MCO
KIN 1074 pax
POS 874 pax
In September CAL will increase POS-MCO to 4w and increase the allocation of seats on the KIN-MCO sector.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 130, posted (9 months 2 days 18 hours ago) and read 8090 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 124): I can see it being very difficult, the plus is that they are catering to MBJ/KIN also, so they can quit GEO at any time.
KIN traffic for now.....The recent stats has shown despite new services, traffic into KIN is growing...WS has been the latest to up gauge their seasonal service to year round..
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 124): This recent article, if it is to be believed says EZjet is working on regional flights:
I hope they acquire a smaller aircraft for this service...
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 125): Lol.....That last part of the article is humorous.
They put all their thrust into trying to capture the VFR traffic...It obviously backfired..
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 127): hey could not succeed in MIA, and them choosing not to do the MBJ-MCO speaks volumes.
MBJ-MCO is well served by B6 anf FL...No room for BW in this market..
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 127): In addition, their bread and butter is being eroded by B6, such as JFK.
Add FLL to the mix..
Quoting guyanam (Reply 128): Also the MCO KIN is not accurate. If you look at the seats its clear that they are allocating 100% to KIN even though many, some say most, are going on to POS, with a few even to GEO. So we know that MCO KIN has decent loads, but thios isnt to say that into KIN they are doing well.
It is accurate...Despite starting in POS, the flights is calculated as a KIN-MCO sector..
It was mentioned in previous threads the majority of pax are POS originating...I have heard reports of KIN traffic being less than 10% of the flight..
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 131, posted (9 months 2 days 17 hours ago) and read 8075 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 127): Seems like BW, while their loads are good, cannot get a handle on tourist pax. They could not succeed in MIA, and them choosing not to do the MBJ-MCO speaks volumes.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 130): MBJ-MCO is well served by B6 anf FL...No room for BW in this market..
The thing with MCO-MBJ is that there is a nice mix of both leisure and some amount of VFR component. I read an interview from a B6 official in the past, where he attested to that fact as part of the reason why they do so well on that route. But yes, with both FL and B6 on that sector, there is no room for any more carrier on it.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 127): In addition, their bread and butter is being eroded by B6, such as JFK.
MCO seems to be improving to KIN. How does it look for BW in the long term, once they are past the problems they had with their BOD? Will the traveling Jamaican public warm to CAL after the fiasco with the Air Jamaica name and it is dropped? Will the GOJ revive the Air Jamaica name eventually after things smooth out, or is that name lost forever?
I do believe that once they consolidate to CAL only BW will be viewed as just another carrier, unless they can market themselves as the flag carrier, and cater to the unique traits of the Jamaican market (e.g. the marketing B6 is doing with Jamaican businesses). BW has a good share of the GEO market but other than having articles on Guyana in their inflight magazine, they do not market themselves to the unique traits of the Guyanese market (e.g. they should serve better food on GEO flights, although I know the issue is cost). I feel like I am on Trinidad's airline when I fly them. Don't get me wrong, the service is great, but they can market themselves better and probably get more market share in GEO. They could use some Guyanese Flight Crews.
Maybe they can do the same in Jamaica, although there is still a bad taste left from the closing of Air Jamaica. Would that be the same sentiment no matter who bought it?
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 133, posted (9 months 2 days 8 hours ago) and read 8001 times:
Plans to divest the Norman Manley International Airport ( NMIA ) in Kingston is still on .....................
Kingston-based NMIA attracts only half of the traffic which flows to the larger Sangster International in Montego Bay - 1.46 million passengers, compared to 3.33 million last year.
NMIA dominates in cargo movement, however. It handled 10,000 tonnes of cargo and 2,558 tonnes of mail last year, compared to the 4,800 tonnes of cargo and 6.6 tonnes of mail that passed through Sangster.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 132): I do believe that once they consolidate to CAL only BW will be viewed as just another carrier, unless they can market themselves as the flag carrier, and cater to the unique traits of the Jamaican market (e.g. the marketing B6 is doing with Jamaican businesses).
Many here have expressed the same sentiments in several past threads.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 132): How does it look for BW in the long term, once they are past the problems they had with their BOD? Will the traveling Jamaican public warm to CAL after the fiasco with the Air Jamaica name and it is dropped?
Some will, some wont. Only time will tell however how it will all pan out. One thing is sure, the competition in KIN is gradually getting more and more intense.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 132): ill the traveling Jamaican public warm to CAL after the fiasco with the Air Jamaica name and it is dropped? Will the GOJ revive the Air Jamaica name eventually after things smooth out, or is that name lost forever?
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 132): I do believe that once they consolidate to CAL only BW will be viewed as just another carrier, unless they can market themselves as the flag carrier, and cater to the unique traits of the Jamaican market (e.g. the marketing B6 is doing with Jamaican businesses)
We will know of BW's long term, once Flyjam takes to the skies..Extra efforts are being put in place to ensure Flyjam's longevity..
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 133): NMIA dominates in cargo movement, however. It handled 10,000 tonnes of cargo and 2,558 tonnes of mail last year, compared to the 4,800 tonnes of cargo and 6.6 tonnes of mail that passed through Sangster.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 136, posted (9 months 1 day 7 hours ago) and read 7874 times:
I saw a pic with FlyJam crew enroute to GEO..I must say the uniform is a total representation of Jamaica and it's vibrant culture..There is no doubt the diaspora will gravitate towards the new piece of Jamaica that flies..
I was informed aircraft #2 will carry a Guyanese registration and will be adorned with the new livery..
A/c #2? Nice. Maybe 8R-FJA as a registration. Sweet. I wonder as Guyana is Cat 2 if that becomes an issue making that a/c Guyanese registered, or just the maintenance must be done at a Cat 1 facility.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 139, posted (9 months 16 hours ago) and read 7746 times:
Quoting guyanam (Reply 126): However while many Jcans feel angered by the loss of the "little piece of Jamaica which flies", I do not think that they will gallop to a new one plane carrier either, until it proves itself. After all people need to be assured that they will get fro point A to point B when they are supposed to.
There is increasing buzz about this proposed new carrier, but yes they will have some amount of proving to do.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 136): I saw a pic with FlyJam crew enroute to GEO..I must say the uniform is a total representation of Jamaica and it's vibrant culture..There is no doubt the diaspora will gravitate towards the new piece of Jamaica that flies..
I was informed aircraft #2 will carry a Guyanese registration and will be adorned with the new livery..
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 138): Are they taking the 752 to GEO or just flying commercial?
They spoke about this on the Nightly News Report this evening. Apparently the Fly Jamaica flight to GEO was a '' testing '' flight. An extension of their proving flight process I guess. I note that the Jamaican colours feature prominently in the crew uniform.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 141, posted (9 months 2 hours ago) and read 7624 times:
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 137): A/c #2? Nice. Maybe 8R-FJA as a registration. Sweet. I wonder as Guyana is Cat 2 if that becomes an issue making that a/c Guyanese registered, or just the maintenance must be done at a Cat 1 facility.
Not really, it will be operated by the crew from a category 1 rated country...
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 138): Are they taking the 752 to GEO or just flying commercial?
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 139): They spoke about this on the Nightly News Report this evening. Apparently the Fly Jamaica flight to GEO was a '' testing '' flight. An extension of their proving flight process I guess. I note that the Jamaican colours feature prominently in the crew uniform.
There is a feature in The Gleaner about their "proving flight'..
YYZ and JFK will initially be served @ 3 each per week, which will be sufficient until aircraft #2 arrives..
Quote: Just as with any other airline, we went through all the requirements necessary to board an aircraft. It was smooth sailing as we went through check-in and immigration, however, because of the rigorous checks and balances of the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority (JCAA), the airline's crew did not receive clearance to do its checks and boarding of the invited passengers until after 5 p.m.
The Boeing 757 aircraft came under heavy scrutiny and was inspected with a fine-tooth comb to ensure that the required support systems and services were in place. Afterwards, we briefly observed the captain and his crew and in-flight services, including the smartly dressed air hostesses, preparing for what was a memorable flight.
The aircraft is expected to comfortably seat 12 first-class and 186 economy-class passengers.
Licence to operate
According to Chief Operating Officer Lloyd Tai, following a satisfactory demonstration, this airline will be given its licence to operate.
"We are required to conduct a normal flight for the process. This includes check-in and immigration as with a normal flight. We went through a comprehensive audit to ensure airworthiness but we are happy that we have been able to get the demo going despite the logistical issues," said Tai.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 141): Not really, it will be operated by the crew from a category 1 rated country...
Good news, I am looking forward to more Guyanese registered jets.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 141): YYZ and JFK will initially be served @ 3 each per week, which will be sufficient until aircraft #2 arrives..
I feel that with all the competition that may be enough, but I like the idea of daily flights, builds confidence and loyalty, especially from business pax.
There was a writer who blogged about the proving flight..
On August 24, 2012 Fly Jamaica announced that they will had satisfied all Jamaica Civil Aviation requirement to have an airworthy aircraft and they intended to do their demo flight. They had many outstanding issues that had been handed down to them and said they were fixed. The day in question was supposed to be inspectors certifying the plane and dealing with paperwork once everything was met.
Fly Jamaica had originally stamped 1315 on their ticket a departure time and had to push that back, they then told every 1400hrs because they had not met all requirements.
For this demo flight they invited friends, staff, media, and other special guests to come for this spectacular occasion. I happened to be one of those people.
Many local (Jamaican) people may have heard of a new airline called Fly Jamaica that will soon be in our friendly skies. I recent got a chance to sit down and talk with the COO of he company, Capt. Lloyd Tai, and he was gracious enough to give a bit about his background to his new airline. Of course I jumped at the opportunity to find out as much as i could and decided to share this knowledge with you. Hope you appreciate it.
First off, Fly Jamaica is using a 1999 Boeing 757-200ER as seen in the picture above (that is the exact plane). They chose this plane because the airline is not planning on doing short haul flights to say Miami or FT. Lauderdale, but is focusing on New York and Toronto. They intend to offer a full service flight (which means meals on board) which means they have a step up in getting me as long as the food is good. They chose those two markets because of the Jamaican diaspora and the lack of flight to fully capture that market which he says is often ignored. The plane size was also chosen for the cargo hold which is far bigger than the 737's and a320's used by its competition. Captain Tai joked about saying if someone wanted to carry a fridge home there would be no problems with space.
Another concern raised was that concerning that there is only one plane. He said there is a plan to get a second plane, either another 757 or a 767. I asked how soon because and when a major check was due for the current plane. He said the last c-check was done in December 2011, so by next year he will hopefully have a second plane because it is needed and the demand is there for it.
When asked about flight frequency, I was told he planned on doing a 3-2 model with 3 flights from Kingston to New York and 2 flights from Kingston to Toronto, and maybe a couple charter flights in between. The company was also looking at the South American market with flight to Brazil.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 145, posted (8 months 4 weeks 1 day 20 hours ago) and read 7551 times:
Quoting beeweel15 (Reply 140): Could also be prominent colours in Guyana also.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 142): Green, Black and Gold are all in the Guyana flag.
True. But from what I observe, the black isn't so prominently displayed on the Guyanese national flag. It is there, but the red, yellow and green is far more noticable. Also the shade of green is a bit different.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 143): There was a writer who blogged about the proving flight..
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 144): Very pertinent questions. Seems like they have good plans, hope they pan out.
Interesting read. Let us see what will happen.
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 136): I was informed aircraft #2 will carry a Guyanese registration and will be adorned with the new livery..
Very eager to see this '' new '' livery. The current one have to go !
beeweel15 From United States of America, joined Nov 2003, 1693 posts, RR: 0 Reply 146, posted (8 months 4 weeks 1 day 15 hours ago) and read 7510 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 145): Quoting beeweel15 (Reply 140):
Could also be prominent colours in Guyana also.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 142):
Green, Black and Gold are all in the Guyana flag.
True. But from what I observe, the black isn't so prominently displayed on the Guyanese national flag. It is there, but the red, yellow and green is far more noticable. Also the shade of green is a bit different.
No matter what you say Green , Black and Gold are in the two flags. I also want to stress the fact that FlyJamaica is not 100% Jamaican owned. As I said the test flight to GEO was to the country of the major shareholder of the company. So after today please dont complain about BW/JM because with this new airline you are in the same position.
FJA has a Jcan flavor. BW doesnt. The blog indicates that they still have some things to work out. A new carrier cannot afford to have delays and poor ground service.They will have to be better than the competition.
Outside of peak periods not sure if the market isnt already well served. Note that the Jan 2012 numbers were quite mediocre.
Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 144): reat pics of GEO. Very pertinent questions. Seems like they have good plans, hope they pan out. I am a friend, yet I wasn't invited on the flight!
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 145): Interesting read. Let us see what will happen.
Am eager to hear more about their plans to service Brazil..
With this new added competition of the JFK route, lets see who will be the first to reduce services for the upcoming winter season..
BW took some licks from B6 on the JFK-MBJ route in Feb, but JFK-KIN wasn't so bad. FLL and MCO weren't that great on BW. How is traffic in Feb, mostly tourists I assume? I know JM used to do EWR do you think BW could make it in that market.
Reasonable pax from MSP. I guess we can't get inter Caribbean traffic.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 151, posted (8 months 4 weeks 18 hours ago) and read 7354 times:
Quoting beeweel15 (Reply 146): No matter what you say Green , Black and Gold are in the two flags.
No one is denying that. But whether you want to accept it or not, the black isn't as prominently featured in the Guyanese flag, as it does in the Jamaican one. Was simply pointing out some of the variances between the two. No harm was meant. Relax.
Quoting beeweel15 (Reply 146): I also want to stress the fact that FlyJamaica is not 100% Jamaican owned.
Why do you keep repeating this ? Everyone already knows that. It is not news.
Quoting beeweel15 (Reply 146): So after today please dont complain about BW/JM because with this new airline you are in the same position.
Me complaining about BW ?!...... Lol. Seriously, you need to take a chill pill. Why all this huffing and puffing ?
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 148): Am eager to hear more about their plans to service Brazil..
Think I would much prefer if a carrier from Brazil operated seasonal services from there to Jamaica.
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 152, posted (8 months 4 weeks 6 hours ago) and read 7337 times:
Seem some stranded passengers were not pleased with how they were treated when their flights were disrupted due to the passage of tropical storm Isaac....................
'' The airline's announcement came hours after it was criticised by several passengers for not being capable of handling a crisis situation and lacking in appropriate customer service skills. "
'' Salmon, who said she travels with the airline at least three times per month, described the staff handling the flight at the airport as persons recruited through an employment agency, then placed around a counter. ''
'' David Lee Sin, who arrived at the airport at 5:00 a.m. Monday, his second consecutive day, said the airline's approach to the situation amounted to slackness. ''
Interestingly there were also several other passengers who experienced flight disruptions at AA as well, but according to some who were interviewed in the footage that was carried by the Nightly news, AA handled the situation far better with the majority of their passengers receiving timely notifications via email/telephone re changes to their original flights, thus limiting the number of people turning up at the airport when there were no flights going out. Some of the disgruntled passengers stated that they tried making contact with the call centre beforehand, but their attempts were futile.
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 153, posted (8 months 3 weeks 6 days ago) and read 7197 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 152): ' David Lee Sin, who arrived at the airport at 5:00 a.m. Monday, his second consecutive day, said the airline's approach to the situation amounted to slackness. ''
Looks like NK is pulling aircraft from NAS and KIN to fund their "west coast' expansion....
I can see B6 operating a double daily A320 service for the upcoming winter schedule..
On the other hand, FLL-MBJ will see an increase in service..
**NK FLL-KIN OCT 0.5>0.1 NOV 0.4>0 DEC 0.4>0 JAN 0.4>0 FEB 0.4>0 MAR 0.5>0 APR 0.5>0.2
NK FLL-MBJ NOV 0.6>0.7 DEC 0.6>0.7 FEB 0.6>0.7 MAR 0.5>0.7
airjamaica From Jamaica, joined Aug 2006, 2317 posts, RR: 0 Reply 154, posted (8 months 3 weeks 3 days 23 hours ago) and read 7037 times:
Quoting hummingbird (Reply 153): Looks like NK is pulling aircraft from NAS and KIN to fund their "west coast' expansion....
I can see B6 operating a double daily A320 service for the upcoming winter schedule..
On the other hand, FLL-MBJ will see an increase in service..
**NK FLL-KIN OCT 0.5>0.1 NOV 0.4>0 DEC 0.4>0 JAN 0.4>0 FEB 0.4>0 MAR 0.5>0 APR 0.5>0.2
NK FLL-MBJ NOV 0.6>0.7 DEC 0.6>0.7 FEB 0.6>0.7 MAR 0.5>0.7
I wish they could find a more suitable way to display these types of data. Is it that in Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb and Mar NK wont be operating FLL-KIN at all and then resume services in Apr ? What exactly does 0.5>0.2 for Apr denotes ? 5x weekly down to 2x ? In any case, I am certain B6 will make every effort to capitalize on this void. I note on their facebook page that people are begging them to maintain the extra late evening KIN-JFK year round, as many seem to like that departure time.
MBJ is intent on earning more non-aeronautical revenues..........................
'' MBJ Airports Limited makes most of its money from the aeronautical side of Sangster International's operations, but commerce is also thriving at the terminal.
Non-aeronautical revenue, or NAR, now accounts for 34 per cent of turnover, according to MBJ's chief commercial officer, Elizabeth Brown Scotton. ''
They do have quite a variety of stores/dining options and bars down there, with plans for even more.
** Still very curious about that air marshal incident involving FL recently. Haven't heard anything more since the vague info was reported a few days ago.
JM017 From Jamaica, joined Jun 2002, 1222 posts, RR: 1 Reply 155, posted (8 months 3 weeks 3 days 19 hours ago) and read 6989 times:
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 152): Interestingly there were also several other passengers who experienced flight disruptions at AA as well, but according to some who were interviewed in the footage that was carried by the Nightly news, AA handled the situation far better with the majority of their passengers receiving timely notifications via email/telephone re changes to their original flights, thus limiting the number of people turning up at the airport when there were no flights going out. Some of the disgruntled passengers stated that they tried making contact with the call centre beforehand, but their attempts were futile.
This what I worry about with Fly Jamaica. Normal operations are one thing. What happens when there are delays due to inclement weather? Tech issues?
"It's okay to cheat, if you just really don't like to lose."
hummingbird From Jamaica, joined Mar 2007, 2884 posts, RR: 0 Reply 156, posted (8 months 3 weeks 6 hours ago) and read 6820 times:
Guys, let us usher in our newest airline Fly Jamaica, who was recently awarded their AOC by The JCAA...As we say, out with the old, in with the new..
The way is now clear for Fly Jamaica to apply to Guyana and several other countries to begin scheduled flights.
The airline has received its Air Operators Certificate (AOC) from Jamaica’s Civil Aviation Authority.
The certificate, dated August 31, is valid for one year.
Fly Jamaica will be required to immediately notify the Jamaica Civil Aviation Authority if it goes into receivership or administration.
The new airline must also advise who is the receiver or administrator.
A report in the Demerara Waves says the air operating certificate was granted one week after Fly Jamaica conducted a “proving” or test return flight from Jamaica to Guyana.
Director General of Guyana’s Civil Aviation Authority, Zulfikar Mohammed, has already said that Guyana would consider Fly Jamaica’s application after Jamaica issues its AOC.
Using Jamaica as its hub, the airline wants to offer scheduled flights to Guyana, the United States and Canada.
Fly Jamaica’s Chief Executive Officer, Ronald Reece, has expressed confidence that there are enough passengers on the Guyana leg to make the route feasible.
Quoting airjamaica (Reply 160): I wish they could find a more suitable way to display these types of data. Is it that in Nov, Dec, Jan, Feb and Mar NK wont be operating FLL-KIN at all and then resume services in Apr ? What exactly does 0.5>0.2 for Apr denotes ? 5x weekly down to 2x ? In any case, I am certain B6 will make every effort to capitalize on this void. I note on their facebook page that people are begging them to maintain the extra late evening KIN-JFK year round, as many seem to like that departure time.
NK will not operate for the upcoming winter schedule..They will resume service in Apr..
0.5>0.2 means there will be a reduction of one se
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