Jamaica’s tourism sector is set to receive a major boost this upcoming winter, with a significant increase in airline seats from Canada. Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, announced that the island will benefit from a surge in available seats ranging from 62% to 109%, thanks to airline partners Sunwing, Flair, and Caribbean Airlines.
“This increase in seats over what is gearing up to be a busy winter season is a testament to the confidence our partners have and the demand for the destination,” said Bartlett. As Canada is Jamaica’s second-largest source market for tourism, this expansion supports the country’s strategic goal of increasing Canadian arrivals to 500,000 by 2025.
Sunwing Airlines will see a 62% increase in seats from Montreal, growing from 12,852 to 20,979, while Ottawa flights will see a 77% rise, adding 2,646 more seats for a total of 6,048. Flair Airlines will more than double the seats on its Toronto to Kingston route, moving from 6,936 to 14,505—a 109% increase. Caribbean Airlines will also boost capacity, increasing from 8,320 to 12,000 seats, representing a 44% rise.
Donovan White, Director of Tourism, emphasized the importance of airlift in driving tourism growth, stating, “Airlift continues to be a critical strategic focus in increasing arrivals to Jamaica, and we are grateful for our airline partners who see the value in adding seats over this busy period. Jamaica remains attractive and top of mind as a top destination.”
Jamaica is projected to welcome over 4.2 million visitors this year, with the tourism sector expected to generate US$4.3 million in earnings. The increase in airline seats from Canada will play a crucial role in achieving these goals, reinforcing the island’s position as a leading destination in the Caribbean.
