Tourism Minister Charles “Max” Fernandez says the Government will seek urgent talks with JetBlue Airways after the carrier made a decision that could affect its service to Antigua and Barbuda.
Government Reopen Talks Jetblue
Speaking to ABS on the sidelines of a home-handover ceremony in Yorks today, Fernandez described the development as “unfortunate” and said discussions with JetBlue are expected before the end of next week.
“We have got to speak with them again next week,” Fernandez said, signalling that the Government remains determined to protect the country’s airlift and its access to the important United States travel market.
The minister linked JetBlue’s decision to wider difficulties confronting the airline, including substantial financial losses, changes in its senior management and the collapse of its planned multibillion-dollar takeover of Spirit Airlines.
Fernandez said Antigua and Barbuda had been performing strongly, suggesting that the decision was not necessarily a reflection of weak demand for the destination.
“We ran the numbers. We have been doing very, very well,” he said.
According to the minister, the failed Spirit Airlines deal appears to have disrupted JetBlue’s longer-term strategy. He suggested the carrier’s new leadership is now reviewing its operations and focusing on routes and services the airline considers priorities.
Fernandez said the Government had told JetBlue it was prepared to reopen negotiations and examine what changes or incentives might preserve the relationship.
However, he acknowledged that the timing presents a major challenge, since airlines generally assign aircraft and begin selling seats to planned destinations well in advance.
“It is difficult for them to move aircraft because they are already selling seats on all of the destinations that they are planning,” Fernandez explained.
Despite the setback, Fernandez said the Government is continuing to pursue other options to maintain and expand air access to Antigua and Barbuda.
He revealed that he has held direct discussions with American Airlines, which has already indicated plans to increase its service to the destination.
The minister also identified Panama as a potential new gateway, saying the Government continues to examine the possibility of securing a direct flight. Such a service could improve Antigua and Barbuda’s connections to Latin America and other international markets through Panama’s extensive aviation network.
Fernandez said Panama could also appeal to residents seeking affordable shopping and vacation opportunities, while providing additional options for visitors travelling to Antigua and Barbuda.
The minister stressed that reliable air access remains critical as the country prepares for further tourism and hotel development. He said the Government must ensure Antigua and Barbuda remains competitive and has sufficient airline capacity to support the expected expansion of the tourism industry.
