Barbados is set to receive a significant airlift boost from the United States this winter, as American Airlines (AA) resumes its direct service from New York’s JFK and introduces a new non-stop flight from Philadelphia.
José María Giraldo, AA’s Managing Director of Operations for Mexico, Central America, and the Caribbean, announced the expansion at Grantley Adams International Airport during a media briefing following the arrival of AA Flight 585 from JFK. “We are thrilled to further strengthen our commitment to Barbados, a country we have served for over 49 years. With the new daily route from New York, operated by Boeing 737s, we’re opening up Barbados to more global travelers and supporting its vital tourism sector,” Giraldo said.
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In addition, AA will launch a weekly service from Philadelphia starting Saturday, positioning itself as the only US airline to operate from four hubs to Barbados, with up to 30 flights each week.
Craig Hinds, Acting CEO of Barbados Tourism Management Inc. (BTMI), emphasized that the JFK route is a crucial gateway for tourism and cultural exchange with the United States, remarking that the return of this route aligns with the island’s preparations for We Gatherin’ 2025, a year-long celebration inviting the diaspora and tourists to participate in cultural festivities.
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“This flight from JFK, which first launched 49 years ago, has introduced Barbados to countless visitors, and we expect it to bring over 25,000 additional seats from JFK alone,” Hinds stated. The new Philadelphia route will further boost airlift capacity with an extra 3,900 seats during the winter season.
AA Flight 585, piloted by Captain Brian Nealis and First Officer Benjamin Sebek, landed in Barbados with 135 passengers. The travelers were warmly greeted by tourism and airport officials, as well as the Haynesville Tuk Band and dancers, underscoring the island’s enthusiastic welcome for increased American tourism.
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