Air Canada marks 74th anniversary of non-stop flights to Barbados

In a celebratory display of camaraderie and partnership, Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) witnessed a jubilant scene on Saturday, December 2, as Air Canada marked the 74th anniversary of non-stop flights to Barbados. 

Captained by Karen Mundell, an Air Canada flight originating from Toronto touched down at GAIA, bringing with it not only passengers but also a sense of festivity and nostalgia.

Upon arrival, the 272 passengers and 10 crew members were greeted with an enthusiastic welcome on the tarmac of GAIA. 

Celebrating a longstanding partnership

Shelly Williams, Chairman of the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc (BTMI), was among those extending a warm welcome to the flight. 

She took a moment to acknowledge and appreciate the enduring partnership between Air Canada and Barbados.

Williams went on to reveal a pivotal development in the summer when Air Canada designated Barbados as a hub for the Eastern Caribbean. This decision, she explained, underscores the airline’s unwavering confidence in the nation. 

“Many may not know but in the summer this year, they made Barbados the Eastern Caribbean hub. They suspended services to some of the Eastern Caribbean destinations and re-routed them to Barbados. That is the level of commitment that Air Canada has to Barbados,” Williams said. 

A rich history of connecting people

Canadian High Commissioner, Lilian Chatterjee, was also present at the event and expressed excitement. 

Chatterjee highlighted the rich history that binds Canada and Barbados, saying, “Air Canada has a very, very rich history in bringing our peoples together - both Canadians coming here and Barbadians going to Canada - and we are thrilled to have that partnership.”