Tag: aviation

Avelo to introduce low-cost flights from Connecticut to MoBay this fall

ST JAMES, Jamaica — Beginning November 16, 2024, Avelo Airlines will operate its first scheduled international route between Jamaica’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ) and Hartford’s Bradley International Airport (BDL).

These non-stop flights will operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays, providing an accessible and affordable travel option for passengers.

Introductory one-way fares between MBJ and BDL start at US$178.

The airline made the announcement on Wednesday.Avelo is the only airline offering nonstop service between Montego Bay, St James and the capital region of Connecticut.Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett has welcomed Avelo Airlines’ announcement.

“We are extremely pleased to welcome Avelo Airlines to Montego Bay with their new direct flights from Hartford, Connecticut. This route is of great significance as Connecticut and the surrounding areas represent a major market for visitors to Jamaica. Additionally, these regions have a high concentration of Jamaica’s Diaspora, making this new service a vital link for families and friends. We are confident that this new connection will not only enhance convenience for travellers but also boost tourism and strengthen the cultural ties between our nations,” Bartlett stated.

Avelo Airlines announced this expansion as part of the largest growth initiative in its history, introducing nonstop service from Bradley International Airport to seven new destinations, including its first-ever international flights. Alongside Montego Bay, Avelo will also launch flights to Cancun, Mexico, beginning November 20, 2024.

“The Ministry of Tourism commends Avelo Airlines for recognising the value of expanding their service to Jamaica and looks forward to a successful partnership that will benefit both destinations,” Minister Bartlett added.

Founded in 2021, Avelo Airlines has quickly established itself as a leading ultra-low-cost carrier in the United States. With a focus on providing affordable and convenient travel options, Avelo has rapidly expanded its network to include a variety of domestic and international destinations. The airline’s commitment to customer satisfaction and innovative service has made it a popular choice among travellers.

GAP effects leadership changes at Kingston airport

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico (GAP), operators of the Norman Manley and Sangster international airports and the PAC Kingston Airport Limited (PACKAL), has effected significant leadership changes.

These appointments, actualised as of April 1, aim at delivering the best possible customer service and excellence in airport management and operations.

Chiefly, seasoned Mexican aviation professional, Fernando Vistrain, will assume the role of GAP country manager for Jamaica.

According to the Guadalajara-based airport operators, Vistrain brings a wealth of experience to the position. He joined GAP in 2003 and has held various key positions within the organisation, demonstrating exemplary leadership and dedication throughout his career.

Mr. Fernando Vistrain, Country Manager for Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico (GAP) for Jamaica

Vistrain’s extensive experience in aviation security, operations management, and strategic leadership makes him the ideal candidate to lead our operations in Jamaica. His track record of success, coupled with his deep understanding of the industry, will be invaluable as we continue to enhance the services and facilities at Norman Manley International Airport.

Fernando holds a diploma in Industrial Processes and a BSC in Aeronautical Engineering from Instituto Politécnico Nacional in Mexico City. He also holds a Master of Business Administration from the Universidad Anáhuac, Mexico City. Currently, he is pursuing a master’s degree in Human Resources Management, Vistrain is committed to furthering his expertise and contributing to the continued success of Kingston Airport Limited.

Additionally, Sitara English-Bayfield will take over as CEO at Kingston Airport Limited.

Mrs. Sitara English-Bayfield will take over as the Chief Executive Officer of Kingston Airport Limited.

English-Bayfield is an accomplished professional with a strong finance and administration background. She has been serving KAL since October 2019, functioning as its director of finance and administration, where she has demonstrated exceptional leadership and strategic vision.

With over a decade of experience in financial management and project planning within the aviation industry, English-Bayfield brings a wealth of knowledge and expertise to her new role. Her proven track record of success and dedication to excellence make her the perfect candidate to lead Kingston Airport Limited into its next phase of growth and development.

Additionally, she holds a Bachelor of Science in Accounting and Economics and a master’s degree in Economics from the University of the West Indies, Mona. She also holds a Post Graduate Diploma in Finance and Financial Law. English-Bayfield is a certified International Airport Professional (IAP), having completed the requirements of the Airport Management Professional Accreditation Program (AMPAP) offered jointly by the Airports Council International and the International Civil Aviation Organization.

Montego Bay Jamaica (MBJ) Airports Limited affirms commitment to optimum safety.

The management team of MBJ Airports Limited, operators of Sangster International Airport (SIA), have addressed the recent temporary closure of the runway due to construction-related activities. The decision had been made within the framework of their Safety Management Systems, designed to prioritize the safety of all operations.

Montego Bay Airports Limited (MBJ)

As is the norm in the aviation industry, steps have already been taken to conduct a thorough review of the circumstances. MBJ Limited has given the assurance that the safety of all passengers, airlines, and stakeholders involved in airport operations, remains their utmost priority. They have expressed their appreciation for the understanding and patience of all stakeholders. MBJ’s safety systems and procedures have maintained a flawless record of runway safety.

MBJ Limited has expressed appreciation to the Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, for their vigilance, commitment and concern for the aviation industry’s welfare. They thanked their airline partners, some of whom resumed operations on the same afternoon when the issue was resolved, demonstrating their commitment to the success of operations at MBJ and to Jamaica. They acknowledged the exceptional coordination efforts of key stakeholders in the tourism industry, particularly the Jamaica Tourist Board and members of the Jamaica Hotel and Tourist Association (JHTA), whose collaboration played a pivotal role in minimizing disruptions.

MBJ announced that the runway extension project has reached a major milestone as the extended runway is now open and operational. With the introduction of a Runway End Safety Area (RESA) at both ends of the runway, this further enhances the safety of aircraft operations at SIA.

For the past two decades, MBJ Airports Limited has consistently invested in SIA’s development. During the pandemic, their commitment to airport improvement and expansion continued with the expansion of the Departures Area. Currently, they are implementing transformative projects as part of their significant investment programme. These projects encompass a comprehensive upgrade and expansion of the check-in area, outbound security, immigration hall, and landside roads. The redevelopment aims to enhance throughput, increase parking capacity, and further elevate the passenger experience.

“Sangster International Airport stands as the gateway to Jamaica and a cornerstone of the nation’s infrastructure. The airport continues to be a recognized leader in the Caribbean,” stated Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited. “We remain dedicated to maintaining this reputation by continually investing in facilities and advancing the quality of the passenger experience. By working collectively, we are confident that we will overcome challenges and create an even more robust, secure, and welcoming aviation ecosystem for all.”