American Airlines senior executive Peter J Dolara, affectionately known as ‘El Jefe’, passed away earlier this month.

He rose to become senior vice president for Mexico, the Caribbean and Latin America and was based in Greater Miami.

An avid supporter of Caribbean tourism, he played an instrumental role in creating greater air connectivity to the region and saw to it that Sandals Resorts International was able to expand its hotels because of that all-important airlift.

Dolara got on well with late Sandals founder and former chairman Gordon’ Butch’ Stewart.

Of Peter Dolara, Sandals wrote: 

“The Sandals and Beaches Resort family extends our deepest condolences to the family and loved ones of Peter J. Dolara. For more than four decades, Peter stood as a towering figure in aviation and a true captain of progress. His strategic vision and steadfast leadership transformed connectivity across the Caribbean, Latin America and the United States, positively impacting the region’s tourism landscape and strengthening its presence on the global stage. Peter was an innovator who played a pivotal role in American Airlines and was instrumental in expanding airlift to Jamaica and the region. His commitment to building Caribbean tourism was evident and went far beyond increasing flight routes. For him, it was about investing in amazing destinations rife with possibility and unlocking new opportunities for its people. A firm believer in the region’s potential, he remained dedicated throughout his career to advocating for its development and ensured that American Airlines consistently delivered world-class service. Beloved by many, Peter’s legacy will forever be cemented in the history of travel and tourism. We honour and cherish his memory and the pathways he forged for us all.”

Executive chairman of Sandals Resorts, Adam Stewart, added, “Peter stood as a towering figure in aviation and a true captain of progress. His strategic vision and steadfast leadership transformed connectivity across the Caribbean, Latin America and the United States, positively impacting the region’s tourism landscape and strengthening its presence on the global stage. His commitment to building Caribbean tourism was evident and went far beyond increasing flight routes. For him, it was about investing in amazing destinations  rife with possibility and unlocking new opportunities for its people.”

Gary Sadler, executive vice president at Unique Vacations, fondly remembers the wisdom Peter Dolara shared with him in their early years working together.

 “You have to understand and take responsibility for the good times and bad times when you are in a position of authority,” Dolara told him shortly after Sadler moved to Miami—a lesson that would stay with him throughout his career.

The two often met over lunch or dinner to discuss the matters that truly shaped their work – meetings that soon became a tradition. Sadler believes this ritual of mentorship and meaningful conversation was set in motion by the late ‘Butch’ Stewart, whose influence impacted them both.