ST JOHN’S, Antigua – The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA) on July 3 welcomed the start of nonstop service on JetBlue Airways from Newark Liberty International Airport to VC Bird International Airport in Antigua. The new service will operate three times a week, on Saturdays, Mondays and Wednesdays, departing Newark at 8:50 am and arriving in Antigua at 1:17 pm.
Passengers boarding the inaugural flight at Newark Liberty International Airport were treated to some delightful Caribbean music performed by a pan soloist and were presented with mini flags. The festivities included a ribbon-cutting ceremony at the check-in counter with representatives from the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority and from JetBlue Airways.
“As the travel industry rebounds, we are delighted that JetBlue is expanding their service to Antigua and Barbuda, providing both our visitors and returning residents with another convenient option for them to experience our twin-island destination,” noted Charles Fernandez, minister of tourism and investment. “Antigua is a tropical paradise with a diverse range of offerings and this decision signifies a tremendous vote of confidence in our tourism product. Our destination remains one of the Caribbean’s leading hotspots with remarkable natural beauty, a rich culture and delectable cuisine which excites the imagination of visitors and ensures a memorable vacation experience.”
“The launch of new destinations from Newark International Airport, including Antigua, allows us to grow our presence in the Caribbean and helps further our network strategy in the greater New York area” said Andrea Lusso, vice president network planning, JetBlue. “This new route seeks to grow our airline’s presence in key regions and introduce our low fares and more competition for customers both in Antigua and in Newark.”
The full flight was met on arrival at the VC Bird International Airport with a water cannon salute on touchdown, followed by a ribbon-cutting ceremony with minister Fernandez, ABTA chief executive officer Colin James, and JetBlue’s Supervisor Airport and Ground Operations ANU, Shevonne Joseph.
The new JetBlue service from Newark complements the existing service from New York JFK which currently includes flights on Tuesdays, Fridays and Sundays.
Traveling to Antigua is easy as all travelers need to do is show proof of a negative PCR test taken and received within seven days of their flight. Visitors may be required to undergo testing on arrival or at their hotel as determined by the local health authorities. In Antigua, the wearing of face masks is mandatory along with social distancing protocols. On arrival, all visitors must complete a health declaration form.
