Pilotcenter.net News: Avelo Airlines, a US budget carrier, has officially launched its inaugural international route, connecting Bradley International Airport in Hartford, Connecticut to Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay, Jamaica. This marks a significant milestone for both Avelo Airlines and the tourism sector in Jamaica and the broader Caribbean region.

The first flight on this new route, operated by Avelo's Boeing 737-800 registered N808VL, took place on November 16, 2024. The flight, numbered XP902, covered a distance of 1,644 miles in three hours and 23 minutes. With 150 passengers and six crew members on board, the inaugural flight arrived in Montego Bay at 10:11 local time, greeted by a traditional water cannon salute.

The ceremony at Sangster International Airport celebrated the inaugural flight with vibrant Jamaican cultural performances, reflecting the island's rich heritage. Notable guests included government representatives, tourism stakeholders, and aviation leaders from Jamaica and the US. Audrey Marks, Jamaica’s Ambassador to the US, highlighted the route's importance for the Jamaican community in Connecticut and its surroundings.

Avelo Airlines' new biweekly service will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays throughout the winter of 2024/25, aiming to make Jamaica more accessible to a diverse range of travelers. This initiative is particularly significant for the community in Windsor and nearby areas in Connecticut, where many have strong cultural and family connections to Jamaica.

Giselle Cortes, Head of Airports at Avelo Airlines, expressed gratitude for the historic moment, stating, "Montego Bay has become our first international destination, and we are very proud to be landing in Jamaica." The airline's goal is to foster unity, as symbolized by the phrases "one crew" at Avelo and "one love" in Jamaica, coming together on the gorgeous island.

Donovan White, Director of Tourism for Jamaica, highlighted the opportunity for leisure travelers from New England to immerse themselves in Jamaica's warm hospitality, diverse culture, and top-notch attractions. Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett, recognized the impact of this new route in enhancing visitor numbers from the US, creating job opportunities, and boosting economic activities for New England residents.

Avelo Airlines' expansion continues with the upcoming launch of seven new routes from Bradley International Airport in winter 2024/25, including service to Cancun, Mexico starting on November 20, 2024. Apart from its fleet of 189-seat Boeing 737-800s, Avelo also operates 147-seat Boeing 737-700s, serving a total of 76 routes to 47 destinations across the US, Jamaica, and soon Mexico. The airline maintains bases in various locations, making travel convenient for passengers across different regions.