Sangster International Airport, operated by MBJ Airports Limited (MBJ), marked a significant expansion of its international routes with the return of LATAM Airlines Peru, connecting Jamaica with direct non-stop service to Lima, Peru. 

 The inaugural flight touched down at 4:38 PM on Sunday, December 1, 2024, with a full complement of 151 passengers aboard an A320 aircraft, signalling a strong demand for the route.

The service, operating three times weekly on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays, represents a crucial link between Jamaica and South America, offering connections to major destinations including Argentina, Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, and Uruguay through LATAM Airlines’ extensive network.

“The return of LATAM Airlines to Sangster International Airport marks a significant milestone in our route development strategy,” said Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited. “This service not only strengthens our connectivity with South America but also demonstrates the growing confidence that airlines have in Jamaica as a premier destination. The full inaugural flight shows the strong demand for travel between these regions, and we’re excited to facilitate this important connection.”

The resumption of LATAM’s service joins other recent route additions at MBJ, including Bahamas Air’s service from Nassau, Bahamas, and Avelo Airlines’ flights from Hartford, Connecticut, increasing the airport’s connectivity to 46 international destinations.

Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, who was present for the inaugural arrival along with other dignitaries, welcomed the development as a boost to Jamaica’s tourism sector.  The service, which is scheduled to arrive MBJ at 4:45 PM and depart at 5:45 PM also has the added benefit that Jamaicans travelling to Peru do not require a visa.

The return of LATAM Airlines, which commenced operations on this route in December 2019 and ceased due to the COVID-19 pandemic, represents a strong vote of confidence in Jamaica’s tourism recovery and MBJ’s position as a leading Caribbean aviation hub.