Jamaica’s Global Airlift to Increase for Fall and Winter 2025/2026

  • Jamaica is set to strengthen its position as one of the world’s most accessible island destinations over the next six months with expanded air service and seat capacity.
  • From September 2025 through February 2026, seat capacity across the island’s three major airports is projected to grow by 4.4% compared to the same period last year. This includes Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ), Kingston’s Norman Manley International Airport (KIN), and Ocho Rios’ Ian Fleming International Airport (IFIA).
  • For the September–February period, MBJ will see a 5.6% increase in scheduled seat capacity and an 8.5% rise in departures year over year. KIN is expected to record a 1.3% increase in capacity and a 3.1% rise in departures, while IFIA is projected to see a 37% increase in overall capacity.
  • “This expanded airlift reflects Jamaica’s continued growth as a leading global tourism destination,” said Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon Edmund Bartlett. “Our airline partners across North America, Europe and the Caribbean recognise the demand for our island’s world-class offerings and have responded with more seats, more gateways and more convenience for travellers. This puts us firmly on track to meet our 5x5x5 growth targets.”
  • In North America, service from key U.S. gateways will be complemented by new Canadian connections, giving travellers more ways to reach Jamaica’s shores. MBJ will welcome additional U.S. flights, including from Baltimore/Washington International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, along with new WestJet service from Edmonton, Alberta.
  • In Europe, Jamaica gained its first direct Lisbon–Montego Bay flights on World2Fly Portugal, building on existing European service. Regional connectivity has improved with LIAT operating approximately three weekly flights between Kingston and Montego Bay.
  • The growth in airlift comes on the heels of a successful 2024, which saw 4.3 million visitors and $4.3Bn in earnings. The U.S. remains Jamaica’s top source market, accounting for approximately 75% of stopover arrivals, while Canadian and European arrivals continue to post strong year-over-year gains.

 (Source: Jamaica Tourist Board)