AA swoops into Florida market
published: Tuesday | March 4, 2008
Janet Silvera, Senior Gleaner Writer
WESTERN BUREAU:
American Airlines has entered the competitive Jamaica/ Fort Lauderdale, Florida, market which is currently controlled by Air Jamaica and Spirit Air.
The American carrier, which has a legacy of over 30 years in Jamaica, announced yesterday that it will commence operations from Ft Lauderdale into Norman Manley, Kingston, as of June 1, pending Government's approval.
The airline will fly the route daily with its 148-seat Boeing 737-800 aircraft, which features 16 seats in first class and 132 seats in the coach cabin. The 737 is one of the newest aircraft in its fleet.
Requests
According to American, a significant percentage of the Jamaican community in South Florida that lives or does business in Ft Lauderdale, has constantly requested the service. "Many presently use the MIA (Miami International Airport) service, but continue to ask for FLL as it is closer to their homes and families. Also, the AAdvantage programme allows them to obtain and redeem miles for future travels," said Yvonne Pearson, country manager.
Not only is the airline estimating that the new route will boost the economic development in Kingston and the Ft Lauderdale areas, but will offer the option of connections from gateways, including Los Angeles, Dallas Ft Worth, Chicago, New York, San Juan, Puerto Rico and San José, Costa Rica.
Complements service
In a statement to the media, American Airline's senior vice-president - Mexico, Caribbean and Latin America, stated that the new flight complements its current service from Miami, allowing increased visits to friends and family, as well as continuing to develop trade and tourism in Jamaica.
American Airlines currently serves Jamaica from Miami with three daily flights to Kingston and two flights to Montego Bay. It also serves Montego Bay daily from New York-JFK and five times weekly from its Dallas/Fort Worth hub.
Following is the schedule for the Kingston - Fort Lauderdale service (all times local):
