JAMAICA’S TOURISM RECOVERY PATH: Jamaica’s primary international gateways witnessed significant passenger traffic reductions in January, according to latest operational data. The aftermath of Hurricane Melissa continues to reverberate through the island’s tourism infrastructure, with both Norman Manley International Airport (NMIA) and Sangster International Airport (SIA) reporting diminished activity.
Concession operator Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacífico disclosed Thursday that SIA processed 284,200 passengers during January, representing a substantial 37.7 percent decrease compared to January 2025’s 456,200 travelers. Despite this sharp decline, the figures indicate a gradual recovery from December 2025’s low of 262,200 passengers at the nation’s busiest aviation hub.
NMIA experienced a more moderate 6.9 percent contraction, handling 155,500 passengers versus 167,000 during the same period last year.
The aviation downturn directly correlates with ongoing restoration efforts across Jamaica’s hospitality sector. Multiple luxury resorts remain temporarily closed as reconstruction continues, compounded by infrastructure challenges involving utility restoration and roadway clearance to key tourist destinations.
According to the Jamaica Tourist Board’s official updates, 23 major hotel properties have postponed reopenings throughout 2026. The phased recommencement schedule includes:
– Grand Decameron properties: March 1 reopening
– Three Sandals resorts: May 30 operational restoration
– Two Royalton hotels: August 25 return to service
– Eight Hyatt properties: November 1 reactivation
– Bahia Principe Grand Jamaica: December 1 reopening
Amid the recovery landscape, Princess Senses the Mangrove resort has initiated operations with substantial promotional incentives, offering up to 60 percent discounts for bookings through February 2026 to October 2027.
Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett maintained an optimistic outlook during recent stakeholder engagements, asserting Jamaica remains positioned for a successful winter tourism season despite current challenges.