Air Jamaica returns to Barbados for summer

Air Jamaica is still moving ahead with other cost-cutting measures, including the elimination of its signature onboard champagne service in economy class on May 1st. In previous efforts to cut costs, the carrier cut back on some routes and offered workers

KINGSTON, Jamaica, April 27, 2009 – A week after cutting Barbados from its itinerary, Air Jamaica has announced a resumption of services for the summer months.

It will operate a twice weekly service between New York and the Caribbean island from July 2nd to August 20th.

The airline, which suspended its Barbados service on April 20th, said the decision was taken “in response to expected demand by Barbadian nationals in the tri-state area travelling home for the summer”.
 
The move has been welcomed by the authorities in the island.

“We are of course very happy that Air Jamaica has made the commitment of these flights,” said Barbados’ Minister of Tourism Richard Sealy.

“Barbadians who live outside of the island look forward to vacationing at home especially during Crop Over and are significant to our tourism strategy. We are thrilled at Air Jamaica’s move in making it easy for them and all visitors to our island to travel during this period.”

The flights will depart John F Kennedy Airport (JFK) each Thursday and Sunday at 12:50 am and arrive in Barbados at 5 am. The return flight will depart Barbados at 6:30 am and arrive at JFK at 11:30 am.

“This is a great opportunity for Air Jamaica to serve the Caribbean and we know these flights will have a huge impact,” said George deMercado, the airline’s Senior Director Sales – Worldwide.

Air Jamaica is still moving ahead with other cost-cutting measures, including the elimination of its signature onboard champagne service in economy class on May 1st. In previous efforts to cut costs, the carrier cut back on some routes and offered workers voluntary separation and early retirement packages.