Jamaica Tourist Board welcomed American Airlines to Montego Bay this week in efforts to restore two sports fields at the local St. James High School.
In collaboration with nonprofit Glasswing International, more than 40 American Airlines team members worked to restore the school’s sports fields to enhance the holistic learning experience for the school’s 1,785 students and 118 teachers – boosting morale, promoting academic achievement, and creating a more dynamic and supportive environment for growth.
“This collaboration between American Airlines and Glasswing International exemplifies the power of partnership in uplifting our communities,” said Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett. “By investing in our youth and educational spaces, we are not only enhancing school life but also nurturing the next generation of Jamaican leaders and athletes. We are deeply grateful for this meaningful contribution to St. James High School and the broader Montego Bay community.”
“At American Airlines we have a strong commitment with Jamaica, a country that we have proudly called home for almost 50 years,” said José A. Freig, Vice President of International and Inflight Dining Operations. “Through our continued partnership with Glasswing International, our hope is that our team members are able to make a positive and lasting impact, together giving back to a community that is so important in our Caribbean network.”
Beyond its physical impact, the revitalized sports area is also expected to help improve student engagement, reduce dropout rates, and enhance overall school attendance—providing a home advantage for student-athletes and a renewed sense of school spirit.
“At Glasswing, we believe in the transformative power of community partnerships. This project in Jamaica is a meaningful opportunity to strengthen educational and wellness spaces, while working hand in hand with volunteers, partners, and communities committed to creating change. We are honored to collaborate with American Airlines in this effort to generate lasting impact in the lives of children and youth across the region,” said Chris Martínez, Regional Projects Director, Glasswing International.
This summer, American is operating 15 peak daily flights from three destinations in Jamaica — Kingston (KIN), Montego Bay (MBJ) and Ocho Rios (OCJ) — increasing to 20 peak daily flights in winter.
“We’re proud to serve as the largest U.S. airline in Jamaica, offering up to 93 weekly flights this summer,” said José María Giraldo, Managing Director of Operations for Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada, and Central America. “We continue expanding our footprint in the country, launching service to Ocho Rios last year and growing our operation by more than 17% for the summer, both highlighting our nearly five decades of commitment with Jamaica.”
Over the past few years, Jamaica has seen a significant increase in airlift due to partnerships with companies like American Airlines. In 2024, the island welcomed 4.3 million visitors and generated approximately US$4.35 billion in tourism earnings, which directly contributed to its economy.
“We believe that tourism should create lasting, positive change in the communities we serve, and this initiative at St. James High School is a shining example of how meaningful partnerships can go beyond travel to leave a real impact,” said Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, Donovan White. “We are proud to support efforts that empower our youth and strengthen the future of Jamaica.”
