Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett and Minister of Science, Energy, Technology and Transport Daryl Vaz have welcomed Avelo Airlines’ introduction of direct flights between Hartford, Connecticut and Montego Bay, Jamaica, starting November 16, 2024.

The Houston, Texas-based airline said the non-stop flights will operate twice weekly, on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Doing so will provide an accessible and affordable travel option for passengers.

Responding to the announcement Minister Bartlett noted, “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.”

He expressed confidence that this new route will boost tourism and strengthen the cultural ties between Jamaica and the United States while enhancing convenience for travellers.

Avelo Airlines yesterday disclosed plans to expand its service routes, including introducing nons-top service from Bradley International Airport to seven new destinations. A connection from there to Jamaica will be its first-ever international flight. Afterwards, on November 20, 2024, Avelo will launch flights to Cancun, Mexico.

Starting operations just over three years ago, Avelo Airlines promotes itself as a “convenient, affordable and reliable” air carrier. The airline serves over 50 destinations from bases at Los Angeles’ Hollywood Burbank Airport (BUR), Southern Connecticut’s Tweed-New Haven Airport (HVN), Orlando International Airport (MCO), the Delaware Valley’s Wilmington Airport (ILG), Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU), and the Bay Area’s Sonoma County Airport (STS).

Bartlett said the Ministry of Tourism commends the airline for recognising the value of expanding its service to Jamaica. Additionally, it anticipates “a successful partnership that will benefit both destinations”.

In the meantime, Transport Minister Vaz acknowledged Avelo for creating the first non-stop service between Hartford, Connecticut, and Montego.

“[It] will provide direct air connectivity to US citizens and the Jamaican diaspora within the Hartford area,” he noted.

“This new air operation will continue to deepen relations between Jamaica and the United States under the current open skies’ agreement. The Ministry of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport on behalf of the government wish Avelo Airlines every success in their operations,” he concluded.