The dual-island Caribbean nation of Antigua and Barbuda has entered active negotiations with multiple international and regional airlines after budget U.S. carrier JetBlue made the decision to end its scheduled service to the country. The departure of JetBlue has created a critical gap in airlift capacity that serves both the vital tourism sector and local residents relying on air connections to North American markets.
Government officials confirmed that discussions are underway with a range of carriers, including major U.S. airlines and regional Caribbean operators, to secure new non-stop routes that can replace the lost capacity. Tourism, which accounts for more than 60% of Antigua and Barbuda’s gross domestic product and employs a large share of the national workforce, is heavily dependent on consistent, affordable air access to bring in visitors from the United States, one of its largest source markets.
Charles Fernandez, the country’s Minister of Tourism and Civil Aviation, told reporters that the government is confident of reaching agreements that will not only fill the gap left by JetBlue but potentially expand overall airlift to the destination. “We have had very productive initial talks with several carriers that see the long-term value of serving Antigua and Barbuda,” Fernandez said in a recent press briefing. “Our priority is to maintain competitive airfares and reliable service for both visitors and residents.”
Industry analysts note that JetBlue’s exit came amid broader industry shifts, including post-pandemic route restructuring and changing fuel costs that have led many carriers to re-evaluate their less profitable routes. Despite this, Antigua and Barbuda’s consistent investment in tourism infrastructure, including its modernized V.C. Bird International Airport and a range of new resort developments, has made it an attractive market for carriers looking to expand their Caribbean footprint. The government is also offering targeted incentives to encourage new carriers to launch service, including temporary marketing support and reduced landing fees for new routes.