Welcome Guys,



For this thread we will highlight KIN..With the recent increase in services, we will now glance at airlines and routes served to KIN..




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Delta.Daily A320 to ATL.



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AC Rouge..4 weekly A319 to

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WS..2 weekly B737 to

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B6.. 2 Daily KIN-FLL and daily JFK services.



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AA..3 daily B738 to MIA..



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Aerogaviota..2 weekly ATR4 service to HAV via SCU.



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KX..8 weekly B737 to GCM..




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Air Turks and Caicos soon to be re branded Inter Caribbean Airways..

2 daily KIN-MBJ-KIN.
4 weekly PLS
3 weekly SDQ.


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Insel Air..2 weekly CUR..
MD83/F50.



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Sunrise Airways..Has done charters, but will revert to scheduled flights to PAP..



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BW

18 weekly to JFK, 9 of these flights operate via MBJ..
3 weekly to YYZ..
2 weekly to MCO.
9 weekly to FLL.
3 weekly to NAS.
7 weekly to POS. Breakdown: 2 weekly nonstop, 1 weekly one stop in BGI, 2 weekly with stops in ANU and BGI and 2 weekly with a stop in SXM..



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CM
3 weekly to PTY.




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BA

3 weekly to LGW.



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OJ

4 weekly to JFK
1 weekly to

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NK..Seasonal service restarts in May @ 3 weekly..


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More updates from old thread..

GreenHeart Soars..Jamaican Thread 47 (by hummingbird Sep 17 2013 in Civil Aviation)



[Edited 2014-01-27 13:42:20]

Great bit of work there Hummingbird, KIN sure has a great range of air services. One thing though, don't BW also serve YYZ from KIN?

Best regards and all the best for 2014.
Trintocan.

Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter):

HB, SouthWest announced that they will begin international service in the summer and they will be flyin to MBJ.

http://rjrnewsonline.com/business/so...airlines-to-fly-to-jamaica-in-july


Awesome line up for KIN.

Quoting A388 (Reply 206): I keep being imrpessed by all the flights to/from MBJ, that is just fantastic to see. I think MBJ is one of the largest and most important tourist destinations in the Caribbean along the same line as PUJ, CUN (and AUA to a lesser extend). Just great. I really wish to go spotting in MBJ some day on the weekends during peak holiday season so I get most of the traffic on camera

Most North American traffic will arrive on or before 3pm..After 4pm, you tend to see more widebodies..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 205): On behalf of which tour company will LL be operating these flights for ? Impressive line up. Good to see service from MSY and CVG into MBJ. ATL is a bit of a surprise to me though as both DL and FL/SW are entrenched on it. But additional service is always welcome. They will operate the flights on behalf of Vacation Express.. I'm wondering, did AA ever operate seasonal BNA-MBJ service when they had a hub there ?

Am not sure, possibly a one time charter..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 205): A blood bath seem to be on the horizon where the GEO-JFK sector is concerned. Will be interesting to see how it all play out. Too many seats on that route definately doesn't bode well for OJ indeed as it pertains to yields.

Agree..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 205): Not a bad beef up of service from Canada by C6 into MBJ. Hopefully the trend will continue if demand requires it.

I think they will operate these flights on TS's behalf..

Quoting guyanam (Reply 204): If JFK GEO gets too many seats that wil hurt OJ, as TS has the travel wholesaler business which will feed their flights. BW will keep most of the market simply because people are accustomed to them. That is unless they mess up and drop the nonstops, or leave bags behind on a routine basis.

I guess with these added seats, no chance DL will return to GEO...

Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 207): Close to 300 seater is being considered to facilitate combined loads to JFK via KIN. Could this be an A330-300? Connections from North America and elsewhere has enhanced load factors on KIN - GEO route

Am not surprised..The B763 is an ideal aircraft..These airframes are going cheap at the moment..

Quoting trintocan (Reply 1): Great bit of work there Hummingbird, KIN sure has a great range of air services. One thing though, don't BW also serve YYZ from KIN? Best regards and all the best for 2014. Trintocan.

Thanks, correction made..Am hearing rumors of Conviasa to KIN..

Quoting jm079 (Reply 2): HB, SouthWest announced that they will begin international service in the summer and they will be flyin to MBJ. http://rjrnewsonline.com/business/so...airlines-to-fly-to-jamaica-in-july

It was announced late last year by the Tourism Minister..They will replace all FL flights as the brand will be no longer exist in 2015..
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DOT STATS JULY 2013

KIN

BW

FLL-KIN
6160-5147 84%

KIN-FLL
6160-6036 98%

JFK-KIN
6160-5760 94%

KIN-JFK
6006-5912 98%

MCO-KIN
1386-1148 83%

KIN-MCO
1386-1351 97%


AA

MIA-KIN
18622-16807 90%..

KIN-MIA
18472-17885 97%


B6

FLL-KIN
6200-5301 86%

KIN-FLL
6200-5695 92%

JFK-KIN
9300-8453 91%

KIN-JFK
9300-8567 92%

NK

FLL-KIN
2465-1888 77%

KIN-FLL
2465-2394 97%

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 3):

The arrival of Travelspan puts an end to DL resuming its JFK GEO route as there is too much yield dilution. They cant stop TS as it is a US based entity.

DOT STATS JULY 2013
MBJ

BW

FLL-MBJ
4774-4291 90%

MBJ-FLL
4774-4619 97%

JFK-MBJ
5852-5720 98%

MBJ-JFK
6006-5632 94%


AA

DFW-MBJ
5246-4827 92%

MBJ-DFW
5096-4862 95%

MIA-MBJ
14928-13797 92%

MBJ-MIA
14922-14062 94%

ORD-MBJ
592-533 90%

MBJ-ORD
444-442 99%


B6

JFK-MBJ
9300-8662 93%

MBJ-JFK
9300-8869 95%

MCO-MBJ
3550-2966 84%

MBJ-MCO
3450-3096 90%


US

CLT-MBJ
17784-15691 89%

MBJ-CLT
17784-15606 88%

PHL-MBJ
11814-10555 89%

MBJ-PHL
11814-10500 89%



DL

ATL-MBJ
21825-19521 89%

MBJ-ATL
22009-20286 92%

JFK-MBJ
4959-4634 93%

MBJ-JFK
4957-4614 93%


UA

EWR-MBJ
3537-3303 93%

MBJ-EWR
3370-3212 95%

IAD-MBJ
616-536 87%

MBJ-IAD
674-632 94%

IAH-MBJ
5457-4975 91%

MBJ-IAH
5457-5148 94%

ORD-MBJ
674-623 92%

F9

ORD-MBJ
672-618 92%

MBJ-ORD
672-630 94%

STL-MBJ
1242-1047 84%

MBJ-STL
1242-1057 85%

NK

FLL-MBJ
3770-3425 91%

MBJ-FLL
3770-3612 96%


FL


ATL-MBJ
4247-4006 94%

MBJ-ATL
4110-3941 96%

BWI-MBJ
8494-8222 97%

MBJ-BWI
8357-7951 95%

MCO-MBJ
4247-3907 92%

MBJ-MCO
4247-4051 95%

MDW-MBJ
2466-2376 96%

MBJ-MDW
2466-2371 96%

SY

DFW-MBJ
1458-928 64%

MBJ-DFW
1458-995 68%

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MONTEGO BAY, Jamaica -- As part of our ongoing coverage of the 2014 Caribbean Travel Marketplace, Travel Agent learned of Delta Vacations' top 10 Caribbean vacation destinations for 2014.

“Whether it’s an excursion to escape the cold, a romantic getaway, a spring break trip or a family summer vacation, these world-class destinations have lots to offer a wide variety of travelers, and they represent tremendous opportunities for our travel agency partners,” said MLT Vacations President John Caldwell in a written statement.

RELATED: 2014 Caribbean Travel Marketplace Kicks Off

The list represents Delta Vacations Caribbean destinations with the most growth based on room-nights booked from 2009 to 2013. In all, Delta Vacations has seen an increase in booked room-nights of approximately 250 percent in these vacation destinations.

http://www.travelagentcentral.com/ca...bbean-islands-2014-slideshow-44236

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n order to maximize value for travel agents’ customers, Travel Impressions reports it is taking to the skies with Dedicated Vacation Flights to Jamaica, Mexico, Costa Rica and the Dominican Republic with service via AeroMexico, AirTran Airways, Frontier Airlines and JetBlue.

Travel Impressions’ Dedicated Vacation Flights out of JFK in New York City feature daily service to Montego Bay.

Boston:
Twice-weekly service to Jamaica on Tuesdays and Saturdays

http://www.travelagentcentral.com/do...a-mexico-costa-rica-and-dominican-

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Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): For this thread we will highlight KIN..With the recent increase in services, we will now glance at airlines and routes served to KIN..

Quoting jm079 (Reply 2): Awesome line up for KIN.

Quoting trintocan (Reply 1): Great bit of work there

Great photos there to complement Thread 48. Especially the night photo of Runway 12/30 and the entire airport complex. Exciting times ahead for KIN with the increased service.

Quoting hummingbird (Thread starter): Delta.Daily A320 to ATL.

They are using the A319 at the moment.

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 3): Am hearing rumors of Conviasa to KIN..

Have been hearing that for some time now as well.

Am not surprised at this news... Mr Lindsay was a fleet manager at Emirates..

Lindsay said countries were now coming to JCAA requesting its services in training air traffic controllers. He noted that the authority recently trained four air traffic controllers for the Turks and Caicos Islands and 10 from Haiti were to arrive in the island for training shortly.

Lindsay also noted that Jamaica's aviation industry stands to benefit significantly from the anticipated logistics hub.

He said they are already making plans to benefit from this initiative by expanding and developing the facilities at Vernamfield Air Base in Clarendon and Ian Fleming Airport in St Mary.

http://jamaica-gleaner.com/gleaner/20140128/lead/lead4.html

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In the OAG thread, it mentioned DL will operate 5 flights into MBJ from Atlanta eff July ..

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Quoting airjamaica (Reply 6):

Thanks... Hopefully we will see SW in KIN from FLL in 2017...

As member airjamaica said, that is a nice photo of the airport in KIN at night. Is that a miniature model of the airport in KIN or a real photo of the airport)?

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 3): Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 207): Close to 300 seater is being considered to facilitate combined loads to JFK via KIN. Could this be an A330-300? Connections from North America and elsewhere has enhanced load factors on KIN - GEO route Am not surprised..The B763 is an ideal aircraft..These airframes are going cheap at the moment..

Yes, I also said that the 767 would be better for them but let's see what will happen.


Cheers,

A388

Quoting A388 (Reply 8):

Looks like a Flight Simulator rendering of KIN.

GUYAIR707

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 7): In the OAG thread, it mentioned DL will operate 5 flights into MBJ from Atlanta eff July ..

I assume one of those flights will RON in MBJ.

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 7): Hopefully we will see SW in KIN from FLL in 2017...

We will see if they will end up serving KIN in the future.

Quoting A388 (Reply 8): Is that a miniature model of the airport in KIN or a real photo of the airport)?

Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 9): Looks like a Flight Simulator rendering of KIN.

On closer inspection it does appear to be a Flight Simulator rendering.

Quoting A388 (Reply 8): I also said that the 767 would be better for them but let's see what will happen.

As much as I prefer airbus aircraft, if the boeing is more convenient and cost effective for them to operate, then I am all for it as well.

The increased viloence in Jamaica doesn't seem to be hurting visitors . I watched a video on Jamaica ,and it was ugly.

At a recent press conference, Dr Phillips mentioned, both international airports will be further expanded..

Quote: while the two international airports - in Kingston and in Mongeto Bay - are to be further expanded.

http://rjrnewsonline.com/local/forma...nds-port-likely-this-year-phillips

Quoting A388 (Reply 8): As member airjamaica said, that is a nice photo of the airport in KIN at night. Is that a miniature model of the airport in KIN or a real photo of the airport)?

Its a computer generated model..

Quoting A388 (Reply 8): Yes, I also said that the 767 would be better for them but let's see what will happen.

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 10): As much as I prefer airbus aircraft, if the boeing is more convenient and cost effective for them to operate, then I am all for it as well.

Based on my observations, I think, they will acquire a B767 and expand the current schedule to JFK and YYZ..

B767s lease rates are becoming more attractive and I know they will grasp this opportunity..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 10): I assume one of those flights will RON in MBJ.

I assume they will operate a mixture of MD88s and B757s..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 10): We will see if they will end up serving KIN in the future.

They mentioned serving 25 international destinations from FLL..I see KIN and MBJ as possible destinations..

Are you referring SW as in Southwest Airlines? If AirTran serves MBJ now then WN will fly to MBJ as they own AirTran. Eventually the AirTran brand will disappear.

A388

Quoting A388 (Reply 13):

Yes..Eff Jul14, all current Air Tran routes to MBJ, will be flown on SW's metal...


But, late last year, SW broke news of plans to create a Latin American hub in FLL eff 2017..

It's part of Southwest's plan to make Fort Lauderdale one of its bases for international flights. The low-cost carrier envisions adding 25 international flights a day from Fort Lauderdale to destinations in Caribbean and Latin America, the Sun Sentinel reports. Southwest currently operates about 70 daily departures from the airport.

http://www.usatoday.com/story/todayi...ale-international-gateway/3989343/

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 12): They mentioned serving 25 international destinations from FLL..I see KIN and MBJ as possible destinations..

If SW decides to operate to both KIN and MBJ from FLL, it would be very interesting. On certain days KIN would have flights to FLL on B6, BW, NK, OJ* and SW. Another looming ' blood bath ' on the horizon, which would be beneficial for the traveller where options/prices are concerned. Eager to see how it will play out.

* Where OJ is concerned, it is just a matter of when and not if FLL will be started.


On a different note, where the AA/US merger is concerned, I am wondering if AA will eventually scale back CLT-Caribbean and PHL-Caribbean operations in favour of MIA, similar to what they did with their JFK-Caribbean ops. Then again probably not, as on many of those routes, they would be the only carrier on it, unlike JFK where they have B6 to contend with to the Caribbean. We will see.

I guess this justifies a widebody aircraft..

Jamaican- based newcomer, Fly Jamaica, has embarked on major moves this year, as it teams up with local tourist and tourist-related organizations in a bid to sell Guyana as a major tourist destination. The airline has set its sights on this month%u2019s Mashramani celebrations to kick- start the first set of activities for the year.

Teaming up with Head of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Harold Singh, the company recently held a special meeting to highlight plans for the country to boast its influx of tourists with a spat of cultural and national events.
Public Relations Officer, Nadine Hing told reporters that the airline is looking to go %u2018all out%u2019 in February since the company is not only ecstatic about the planned activities for Mashramani, but will also be celebrating its first anniversary, while its parent company, Wings Aviation, will be celebrating 30 years in business.
Hing said %u201CWe have teamed up with a number of designers and a band in promoting Guyana as a tourism destination for Mashramani.%u201D Hing highlighted that the company has on board at least two costume bands, one coming out of New York so as to reach the various targeted groups.

http://www.kaieteurnewsonline.com/20...-eyes-locals-in-tourism-promotion/

--------------------------------------------------------------
interCaribbean Airways (JY, Providenciales) has postponed plans to operate its first domestic Jamaican flights ch-aviation schedule data shows. The double-daily flights from Kingston Norman Manley to Montego Bay were to have launched on January 20. As of this posting, the Turks & Caicos Islands operator has not yet received the necessary approvals from the Jamaican authorities but is hopeful it will receive them within the next couple of weeks according to its CEO Trevor Sadler.
http://www.ch-aviation.com/portal/ne...ones-planned-domestic-jamaican-ops

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Quoting airjamaica (Reply 15): If SW decides to operate to both KIN and MBJ from FLL, it would be very interesting. On certain days KIN would have flights to FLL on B6, BW, NK, OJ* and SW. Another looming ' blood bath ' on the horizon, which would be beneficial for the traveller where options/prices are concerned. Eager to see how it will play out.

I don't think NK will be around for this battle..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 15): * Where OJ is concerned, it is just a matter of when and not if FLL will be started.

I expect then to start services once the second runway is completed..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 15): On a different note, where the AA/US merger is concerned, I am wondering if AA will eventually scale back CLT-Caribbean and PHL-Caribbean operations in favour of MIA, similar to what they did with their JFK-Caribbean ops. Then again probably not, as on many of those routes, they would be the only carrier on it, unlike JFK where they have B6 to contend with to the Caribbean. We will see.

Based on growth in our tourism industry , I expect them to add more services to MBJ from PHL..

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 16):

I do believe that they need JFK-GEO-JFK nonstop to capture substantial market share. I am hearing more and more acquaintances using their service. Apparently National Geographic named Guyana as one of the must see places for 2014, so I think OJ is joining in on the potential tourism here.

GUYAIR707

Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 17):

Well the US DOT isn't going to allow OJ to do JFK GEO JFK, even though its obvious that DL will have long ago lost interest in that route, with the arrival of Travelspan and its lower fares.


I wouldn't read too much into that National Geographic. Conde Naste said the same thing a decade ago, and no results. Here is the problem. Some one reads the article and gets excited. The try to find a reasonably priced package (as eco/adventrures must be) and they don't find anything priced reasonably. They then look at the # 2 country, which is ready for them, and so off they go.

If OJ can fill a plane on the KIN GEO sector (tell Jamaicans that there is nuff nuff gold in Guyana...LOL) they can then profitably do a KIN GEO JFK, giving them nonstop in both directions.

[Edited 2014-02-03 16:07:35]

[Edited 2014-02-03 16:08:41]

Quoting guyanam (Reply 18):

Someone posted on this thread that loads were up on KIN-GEO, so maybe they will be able to do KIN-GEO-JFK soon. National Geographic mentioned tour operator Wilderness Explorers, so maybe things are different now. Georgetown needs lots of work, but the interior resorts are great, with Rockview Lodge getting accolades, and Iwokrama, especially the canopy walk.

GUYAIR707

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 14): Quoting A388 (Reply 13): Yes..Eff Jul14, all current Air Tran routes to MBJ, will be flown on SW's metal...

Great thanks hummingbird, I didn't know about their plans from FLL. That is great, I'm sure CUR will also be on their radar to compete against AA's twice daily MIA-CUR nonstop flights. Time will tell...

A388

Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 17): I do believe that they need JFK-GEO-JFK nonstop to capture substantial market share

Quoting guyanam (Reply 18): If OJ can fill a plane on the KIN GEO sector (tell Jamaicans that there is nuff nuff gold in Guyana...LOL) they can then profitably do a KIN GEO JFK, giving them nonstop in both directions.

Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 19): Someone posted on this thread that loads were up on KIN-GEO, so maybe they will be able to do KIN-GEO-JFK soon.

Guess it will all depend on how well the KIN-GEO segment perform and develop over time. But yes, the only way they will be able to do GEO-JFK nonstop, is if they route the flight KIN-GEO-JFK, as '' Uncle Sam '' is steadfast on their decision where this topic is concerned.

Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 17): I am hearing more and more acquaintances using their service.

What feedback do you get from them where price and in flight meal service is concerned on OJ ?

Quoting A388 (Reply 20): I didn't know about their plans from FLL. That is great, I'm sure CUR will also be on their radar to compete against AA's twice daily MIA-CUR nonstop flights. Time will tell...

I am wondering if B6 is also eyeing FLL-CUR as they too have big expansion plans for their FLL hub in the future. Not sure about JFK-CUR though. Did any carrier ever operate nonstop on that route before in the past ? ALM used to serve JFK from CUR back in the day, but I think it made a stop somewhere else in the Caribbean on the way ( ? )

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 21): What feedback do you get from them where price and in flight meal service is concerned on OJ ?

All good stuff, no complaints to this point. Everyone I spoke with is happy with the service and the food, some even said they did not mind the stopover/flight time. One person complained that they were not happy with the time they spent going through security, but that is the same everywhere.

GUYAIR707

Eff Oct, SW will replace FL on the MDW-MBJ sector. Also, there will be an increase from 4 weekly to daily..
.............................................................................................

Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 17): I do believe that they need JFK-GEO-JFK nonstop to capture substantial market share. I am hearing more and more acquaintances using their service

They can possibly add more JFK-GEO services, but GEO-JFK will not happen unless there is a new ruling from The DOT..

Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 17): Apparently National Geographic named Guyana as one of the must see places for 2014, so I think OJ is joining in on the potential tourism here.

The potential is there for growth.

Quoting A388 (Reply 20): Great thanks hummingbird, I didn't know about their plans from FLL. That is great, I'm sure CUR will also be on their radar to compete against AA's twice daily MIA-CUR nonstop flights. Time will tell...

I see CUR as a future destination...

BTW..Any news on how Insel Air is performing to KIN..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 21): Guess it will all depend on how well the KIN-GEO segment perform and develop over time. But yes, the only way they will be able to do GEO-JFK nonstop, is if they route the flight KIN-GEO-JFK, as '' Uncle Sam '' is steadfast on their decision where this topic is concerned.

I have been monitoring the activities of OJ since December.I hope they are able to secure another frame for the summer as a single craft will not work..

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 23): Quoting A388 (Reply 20): Great thanks hummingbird, I didn't know about their plans from FLL. That is great, I'm sure CUR will also be on their radar to compete against AA's twice daily MIA-CUR nonstop flights. Time will tell... I see CUR as a future destination... BTW..Any news on how Insel Air is performing to KIN..

Thanks hummingbird. Unfortunately I don't know how Insel Air performs on the route  

A388

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 23):

Yes their facebook has many complaints about the delays due to the single aircraft operation. Because of this their recovery after snow storms is slower than BW. I am not sure if being a very small carrier also hurts them in getting landing slots when there are weather related restrictions. BW is now I think ranked around # 8 in terms of its passenger traffic into JFK. Its landings should also rank high, given that they use mainly small 738 equipment. So they should have some level of piority.

As an aside BW must be the biggest airline into NYC that nobody ever heard of, as aside from Caribbean , they are even less known than BWIA was. Most people will be shocked to learn that they are actually a major carrier into JFK. I think the 3rd largest foreign carrier behind BA and AF, with around 700k passengers.

The summer and the fall seasons also generate severe rainstorms in the NY area so OJ needs to be better prepared for that, than they apparently were over the last several snow storms. A 2nd plane gies them more operatioinal flexibility. I am beginning to wonder if the delay is due to financial issues, as the track record for Caribbean carriers isnt good. If even BW and LIU, state supported, almost lost their planes last year I can only wonder about an independent airline like OJ.

Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 22): All good stuff, no complaints to this point. Everyone I spoke with is happy with the service and the food, some even said they did not mind the stopover/flight time. One person complained that they were not happy with the time they spent going through security, but that is the same everywhere.

That is good to know. Hopefully they will be able to meet/exceed passenger expectation in both Guyana and Jamaica going forward.

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 23): Eff Oct, SW will replace FL on the MDW-MBJ sector. Also, there will be an increase from 4 weekly to daily..

Not bad at all. So the competition will heat up in Chicagoland where flights to MBJ are concerned. UA and AA from ORD and SW from MDW. Looking forward to view their colourful metal at Sangster. And maybe at KIN someday.

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 23): I have been monitoring the activities of OJ since December.I hope they are able to secure another frame for the summer as a single craft will not work..

Quoting guyanam (Reply 25): Yes their facebook has many complaints about the delays due to the single aircraft operation.

Quoting guyanam (Reply 25): The summer and the fall seasons also generate severe rainstorms in the NY area so OJ needs to be better prepared for that, than they apparently were over the last several snow storms. A 2nd plane gies them more operatioinal flexibility.

An additional aircraft is desperately needed. I am concerned about the limitations with operating a single metal, particularly during peak periods when there is increased demand for travel, and unfortunately two of the main busy seasons have some severe weather conditions at times in both the YYZ and JFK markets.

Quoting guyanam (Reply 25): I am beginning to wonder if the delay is due to financial issues, as the track record for Caribbean carriers isnt good. If even BW and LIU, state supported, almost lost their planes last year I can only wonder about an independent airline like OJ.

OJ have been quite silent of late re aircraft # 2. Based on previous announcements, I was expecting to see it operational already. Hopefully we will get updates soon on the status of those plans. Wouldn't be nice for them to loose the loyalty they have built up so far because of the challenges a single aircraft operation pose.

Guys let's not confuse Air Namibia with Southwest Airlines  

A388

Quoting A388 (Reply 27): Guys let's not confuse Air Namibia with Southwest Airlines

Lol. The correct IATA code for Southwest Airlines is indeed WN and not SW, with SWA being their designated ICAO code. I find the 3 character ICAO codes easier to remember than the 2 character IATA codes. Probably because I am more familiar with them from ATC days. Some of those IATA codes are '' miles '' away from the actual carrier name for obvious reasons.


Both the operation of OJ, and influx of Russian visitors resulted in increased earnings for air catering company Goddard Enterprises..............


'' Over 10,000 Russians visited the island following the set up of direct flights in 2013.

That market represents the fastest growth area albeit growing from a small base.

Fly Jamaica became the latest local-based airline to offer international flights effective January 2013.

It operates one Boeing 757 aircraft and is a partnership between Guyanese Paul Ronald Reece and Jamaican shareholders including Lloyd Tai. "


http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/busin...boosts-Goddard-s-earnings_15962889


Positive spin offs there for Goddard.


The Caribbean Aviation Training Centre ( CATC ) is aiming to capitalize on the absence of Air Jamaica Express and Jamaica Air Shuttle for cross island travel...............


'' While the flight school %u2014 which has had a charter licence since inception %u2014 provided charter service on the odd occasion in the past, it was lured to begin offering regular services partly due to a void left in the domestic air travel market following exits by carriers such as Air Jamaica Express and more recently Jamaica Air Shuttle. ''


http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/busin...c-air-travel--help-pilots_15726644


Interesting. Good that more options will be made available for travelers to choose from.

Quoting A388 (Reply 24): Thanks hummingbird. Unfortunately I don't know how Insel Air performs on the route

Loads have been hit and miss…..some days quite full…other days absolutely empty.

DL has applied to The JCAA to add ExpressJet service to the current schedule. The flight will operate an ATL-MBJ-ATL rotation.

On Sat, we will see 5 DL flights from ATL. 4* MD88s and 1CRJ9.


CRJ900
Eff Feb 14..

Delta 4949* Dep ATL 5:34pm
Arr MBJ 8:26pm


Eff Feb15

Delta 4948* Dep MBJ 9:00am
Arr ATL 11:58am

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Quoting A388 (Reply 24): Thanks hummingbird. Unfortunately I don't know how Insel Air performs on the route

Quoting yellowtail (Reply 29): Loads have been hit and miss…..some days quite full…other days absolutely empty.

Thanks. I see where, they have scheduled the F50 on the route. I also see where they are expected to receive some F70s, hopefully,they will appear in KIN..

Quoting guyanam (Reply 25): A 2nd plane gies them more operatioinal flexibility. I am beginning to wonder if the delay is due to financial issues, as the track record for Caribbean carriers isnt good.

I doubt, its a financial issue..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 26): Not bad at all. So the competition will heat up in Chicagoland where flights to MBJ are concerned. UA and AA from ORD and SW from MDW. Looking forward to view their colourful metal at Sangster. And maybe at KIN someday.

Also, F9, if their new owners decide to continue with the Apple Vacations contract.

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 26): An additional aircraft is desperately needed. I am concerned about the limitations with operating a single metal, particularly during peak periods when there is increased demand for travel, and unfortunately two of the main busy seasons have some severe weather conditions at times in both the YYZ and JFK markets.

Agree..The schedule is back on track, but their two last services to YYZ suffered major delays..

Quoting A388 (Reply 27): Guys let's not confuse Air Namibia with Southwest Airlines A388

My bad, lol..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 28): nteresting. Good that more options will be made available for travelers to choose from.

I agree. Seems like a sustainable business model. I hope one day, we will see an upgrade of all major Aerodromes with services linking both internationall airports..

US Embassy in Guyana warns its citizens to avoid CAL out of Georgetown on Monday Feb 10th to Wednesday Feb 12th.

http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/arti...an-Airlines-potential-threats.html

According to the Trinidad Express it is based on a call out of Barbados.

http://www.trinidadexpress.com/news/...lights-under-threat-244656041.html

GUYAIR707

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 30): Quoting A388 (Reply 24): Thanks hummingbird. Unfortunately I don't know how Insel Air performs on the route Quoting yellowtail (Reply 29): Loads have been hit and miss…..some days quite full…other days absolutely empty. Thanks. I see where, they have scheduled the F50 on the route. I also see where they are expected to receive some F70s, hopefully,they will appear in KIN..

Thanks Yellowtail. As for the Fokker 70's, I understand they will be going to their subsidiary in Aruba, Insel Air Aruba so I'm not sure whether they will be send to Jamaica. I can imagine CUR will see them as I imagine the maintenance will done in CUR.


As for the Southwest Airlines IATA code, no worries. Everyone can make a mistake, it is part of life  

A388

Has Fly Jamaica announced what it intends to acquire for their 2nd aircraft? Another 757 or 767? Would they consider 737's or A320 aircraft?

Speaking of Insel now the the A320NEO and 737Max being sold and likely NG and CEO aircraft being returned to lessors or offered for sale has Insel started to look into replacing their MD-80's with newer aircraft?

Fly Jamaica's has cancelled its GEO-KIN-JFK service, that should have departed this morning..

Fly Jamaica regrets to advise that the following flights:

OJ150 GEO %u2013 KIN; OJ121 KIN %u2013 JFK and OJ120 JFK %u2013 KIN, 10th February, 2014 are cancelled due to technical difficulties.

Alternative arrangements are being made to accommodate our passengers.

We sincerely apologise for this inconvenience and thank you for your patience and understanding.

For further information please contact our reservation centres:-
http://www.fly-jamaica.com/articles/...lternative-arrangements-being-made

Quoting GUYAIR707 (Reply 31): US Embassy in Guyana warns its citizens to avoid CAL out of Georgetown on Monday Feb 10th to Wednesday Feb 12th. http://www.dailymail.co.uk/news/arti...an-Airlines-potential-threats.html According to the Trinidad Express it is based on a call out of Barbados.

Not good news. This means increased security for US bound flights leaving GEO.

Quoting A388 (Reply 32): As for the Southwest Airlines IATA code, no worries. Everyone can make a mistake, it is part of life A388

Lol.

Quoting georgiabill (Reply 33): Has Fly Jamaica announced what it intends to acquire for their 2nd aircraft? Another 757 or 767? Would they consider 737's or A320 aircraft?

Last we heard, they were looking at a widebody, one that seats over 300 passengers.

Based on their business model, I assume they will look at 737s..Its only a guess whether they will acquire classics or NGs.

Reliable sources have reported that Lloyd Tai and Christine Steele are no longer affiliated with OJ. Can anyone confirm? They have relinguished all ties with the CEO.
Incidentally, their First anniversary as a launched airline is valentines day.

Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 35):

I saw where the aircraft was ferried to KIN from GEO last night.Today's flight from KIN-YYZ - GEO is cancelled..

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 36):

Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 35):

This doesn't exactly inspire confidence. Private airlines in the Caribbean don't have a good track record of surviving.

This was brewing for months, this is one of the reasons why a/c#2 has been constantly been delayed. This could signal the end of OJ as management disputes will affect what was once a healthy customer base and this a/c cannot fly to USA if reg'd in GEO.

Whats up everybody...long time no post here. I still read almost daily though.

Quoting guyanam (Reply 37):

Agreed.

Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 35):

it is confirmed...they are no longer with OJ. Steele was since last month and Tai last week. This sounds like a difference in philosophy to me.

As an FYI, Dl 383/384 ATL-KIN is not doing bad at all. I was skeptical about the new schedule that kicked in the first week of january, but the loads average between 60 - 80% both ways daily. So its working for now. Lets see what happens. I think it is here to stay for good this time though. Delta is all about money and with an average for of minimum $500 from atlanta being charged by Atlanta to connect through Miami...it was a smart move for them to get in on the parade.

As far as the discussion earlier about connecting in atlanta...its a piece of cake if you are connecting. The long lines are a thing of the past since the new terminal opened in may 2012. The only bad thing is if u are a local and arrive in E at 1 of the far gates. Its a hump to get to F for processing. However, i tell people all the time. It beats the alternative of going through TSA in E and then taking train to the front of the airport and reclaiming your bags in the main terminal. So to all who have doubts, give ATL a chance. Just catch a flight that comes in after peak times. Fortunately all the jamaica flights come in off peak so its perfect. If u r coming from belize .your flight arrives at a good time for connecting also.

1 love.

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 34): Fly Jamaica's has cancelled its GEO-KIN-JFK service, that should have departed this morning..Fly Jamaica regrets to advise that the following flights:OJ150 GEO KIN; OJ121 KIN JFK and OJ120 JFK KIN, 10th February, 2014 are cancelled due to technical difficulties.

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 36): I saw where the aircraft was ferried to KIN from GEO last night.Today's flight from KIN-YYZ - GEO is cancelled..

Quite a lot of cancellations there. This one aircraft operation wont cut it at all if they are really serious about reliability and service.

Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 35): Reliable sources have reported that Lloyd Tai and Christine Steele are no longer affiliated with OJ. Can anyone confirm? They have relinguished all ties with the CEO.

Quoting guyanam (Reply 37): This doesn't exactly inspire confidence.

Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 38): This was brewing for months, this is one of the reasons why a/c#2 has been constantly been delayed. This could signal the end of OJ as management disputes will affect what was once a healthy customer base and this a/c cannot fly to USA if reg'd in GEO.

Quoting ilanbwoy (Reply 39): it is confirmed...they are no longer with OJ. Steele was since last month and Tai last week. This sounds like a difference in philosophy to me.

Don't like the look/sound of this at all. But let us see.

Quoting ilanbwoy (Reply 39): Whats up everybody...long time no post here. I still read almost daily though.

Long time indeed.

Quoting ilanbwoy (Reply 39): As an FYI, Dl 383/384 ATL-KIN is not doing bad at all. I was skeptical about the new schedule that kicked in the first week of january, but the loads average between 60 - 80% both ways daily. So its working for now. Lets see what happens. I think it is here to stay for good this time though. Delta is all about money and with an average for of minimum $500 from atlanta being charged by Atlanta to connect through Miami...it was a smart move for them to get in on the parade.

Good that DL's ATL-KIN flights are looks promising. Myself hope it will stick around this time.

Quoting ilanbwoy (Reply 39): As far as the discussion earlier about connecting in atlanta...its a piece of cake if you are connecting. The long lines are a thing of the past since the new terminal opened in may 2012.

That is what I hear as well.


More on WN's ATL-MBJ, MCO-MBJ and BWI-MBJ service.................


'' Jamaica is set to welcome the start of non-stop service from Atlanta, Baltimore and Orlando this summer as Southwest Airlines will begin flying to Jamaica's Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay starting July 1.

From Atlanta and Orlando, the airline will operate daily service out of Hartsfield-Jackson International and Orlando International respectively to Montego Bay. The Baltimore/Washington route will operate twice daily from Baltimore Washington International into Montego Bay. The three routes were previously operated by AirTran Airways. ''


http://www.hospitalityjamaica.com/news3.html


Wasn't aware that BWI-MBJ will operate 2x daily.


Additional info on Intercaribbean Airways expansion plans which also includes Jamaica...................


'' INTERCARIBBEAN Airways will invest millions to execute its regional expansion that includes offering airlinks between Jamaica and the Latin Caribbean, according to management.

It's aimed at driving demand between Jamaica, Dominica Republic and Puerto Rico in additon to tapping into existing business and tourism linkages. ''


http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/busin...ca-Latin-Caribbean-routes_16019062


Business interests will enjoy the convenience of not having to fly via MIA to get to DR and PR.

Quoting guyanam (Reply 37): This doesn't exactly inspire confidence. Private airlines in the Caribbean don't have a good track record of surviving.

Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 38): This was brewing for months, this is one of the reasons why a/c#2 has been constantly been delayed. This could signal the end of OJ as management disputes will affect what was once a healthy customer base and this a/c cannot fly to USA if reg'd in GEO.

And there was so much confidence in their survival on they forum only a few months ago. Some were even predicting hoardes of Jamaicans flocking to GEO on holiday and vice versa. 

Quoting ilanbwoy (Reply 39): If u r coming from belize .your flight arrives at a good time for connecting also.

Better yet, if you are coming from BZE the immigration hall is empty.

Actually I have found that the BZE-LAX flight also get a nice empty arrival hall at LAX.

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 36): Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 35): I saw where the aircraft was ferried to KIN from GEO last night.Today's flight from KIN-YYZ - GEO is cancelled..

Quoting yellowtail (Reply 41): Quoting guyanam (Reply 37): This doesn't exactly inspire confidence. Private airlines in the Caribbean don't have a good track record of surviving. Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 38): This was brewing for months, this is one of the reasons why a/c#2 has been constantly been delayed. This could signal the end of OJ as management disputes will affect what was once a healthy customer base and this a/c cannot fly to USA if reg'd in GEO. And there was so much confidence in their survival on they forum only a few months ago.

This is sad indeed, while I know that a one aircraft operation is very risky I was still looking forward to them receiving the 767 and with a new livery but this seems to be less realistic now.

In any case, I am glad I unexpectedly saw them when I was in KIN. I accepted the aircraft to be flying during my short stay there:



View Large View Medium

Photo © Roger Cannegieter - Curacao Aviation Photography



Cheers,

A388

ATLANTA, GA--(Marketwired - February 10, 2014) - Vacation Express recently announced new service to Jamaica from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). Service to Jamaica starts on May 17, 2014 and runs through June. The flight will be operated by Miami Air International using a B737-400 that seats 150 passengers. The plane has both main and first class cabins and all passengers will get a free first checked bag, snack and limited bar. Flights and vacation packages are offered through vacationexpress.com or by calling 800.309.4717.

http://finance.yahoo.com/news/inclus...BmYm11NnUwBHNlYwNzYwRjb2xvA2JmMQ--

Quoting yankeejuliet (Reply 38): This was brewing for months, this is one of the reasons why a/c#2 has been constantly been delayed. This could signal the end of OJ as management disputes will affect what was once a healthy customer base and this a/c cannot fly to USA if reg'd in GEO.

Quoting ilanbwoy (Reply 39): it is confirmed...they are no longer with OJ. Steele was since last month and Tai last week. This sounds like a difference in philosophy to me.

Hopefully, they will work things out as they were growing their market share..

Quoting ilanbwoy (Reply 39): I think it is here to stay for good this time though. Delta is all about money

I see them being around for a long time.. I would not be surprised to see their B757 in KIN for S14..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 40): Quite a lot of cancellations there. This one aircraft operation wont cut it at all if they are really serious about reliability and service

There has been no flights since Sunday.

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 40): Good that DL's ATL-KIN flights are looks promising. Myself hope it will stick around this time. Quoting ilanbwoy (Reply 39):

Agree..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 40): Wasn't aware that BWI-MBJ will operate 2x daily.

It was 2 daily last summer. FL entry into the market has shown growth over the years..

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 40): It's aimed at driving demand between Jamaica, Dominica Republic and Puerto Rico in additon to tapping into existing business and tourism linkages. '' http://www.jamaicaobserver.com/busin...ca-Latin-Caribbean-routes_16019062 Business interests will enjoy the convenience of not having to fly via MIA to get to DR and PR.

Hopefully, they will be approved by The JCAA to start domestic services..I expect them to start GCM and a Cuban destination in the future..

Quoting A388 (Reply 42): This is sad indeed, while I know that a one aircraft operation is very risky I was still looking forward to them receiving the 767 and with a new livery but this seems to be less realistic now.

Am hoping for the best..

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 43): Vacation Express recently announced new service to Jamaica from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). Service to Jamaica starts on May 17, 2014 and runs through June. The flight will be operated by Miami Air International using a B737-400 that seats 150 passengers.

Isn't vacation expressed owned by Sunwing. one would have thought that Sunwing would have provided the aircraft somehow

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 43): Hopefully, they will work things out as they were growing their market share..

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 43): There has been no flights since Sunday.

Strange enough I haven't heard anything in the media etc. regarding this issue. I notice they are making much of their 1 year anniversary on facebook. Hopefully they will be able to sort out whatever issues they have.

Quoting yellowtail (Reply 44): Isn't vacation expressed owned by Sunwing. one would have thought that Sunwing would have provided the aircraft somehow

Maybe the other frames in the WG fleet are all tied up in winter schedules all over and using Miami Air for some operation is necessary.

Quoting yellowtail (Reply 44):

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 45):

I assume there are two factors ..

1.Regulatory issues..
2. Cost... Perhaps it's cheaper to use a North American based carrier based on the number of rotations scheduled for the period...

Quoting airjamaica (Reply 45):

Perhaps it's time for another trip to China to engage the Chinese, lol..
Would be a worthy investment on their part..

Looks like Fly- Jamaica is looking to lease a larger aircraft and will boost their GEO- YYZ route..

At a presentation in the city last weekend, Roxanne Reece – one of the airline’s two directors – reflected on the first year and shared some of the plans for the carrier which started flying on February 14, 2013

The airline received its landing rights for Canada two months ago and made its inaugural non-stop flight from Toronto to Georgetown, Guyana last December 17.

“The last year has been extremely busy and challenging,” said Reece. “With any new operation, there are growing pains and hurdles which we overcame. The brutal winter in Canada and the United States has affected our schedule like all other airlines but what should not be lost is that we provided employment for nearly 130 people in Jamaica and Guyana and we are offering an authentic Caribbean experience once you fly with us.”

Reece, who has been in the aviation industry for almost three decades, said the airline plans to increase its non-stop service between Toronto to Georgetown. The airline currently flies once weekly, leaving on Tuesday afternoon and returning the following day.

http://sharenews.com/a-busy-challenging-year-for-fly-jamaica/

I just wonder if the apparent tiff between Reece and the Jamaican owners are because they think that he is over emphasizing GEO, especially if GEO is costly to serve, given the limitation on the JFK GEO route.

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 46): Perhaps it's time for another trip to China to engage the Chinese, lol..

Lol.

Quoting hummingbird (Reply 47): Looks like Fly- Jamaica is looking to lease a larger aircraft and will boost their GEO- YYZ route..

Well it appears as if its business as usual. Atleast for the time being.

Quoting guyanam (Reply 48): I just wonder if the apparent tiff between Reece and the Jamaican owners are because they think that he is over emphasizing GEO, especially if GEO is costly to serve, given the limitation on the JFK GEO route.

Curious about the reason they are at odds, as both the GEO and KIN markets are important to OJ's operation. Also I am wondering which South American destination they have in mind as per this quote :

'' We are also looking at leasing a bigger aircraft so that we can service more routes, including a South American destination. ''


Time will tell though.