The Caribbean island of Barbados is getting increased attention from U.S. travelers as airlines increase travel options to the island.
According to the U.S. director for Barbados Tourism Marketing, Inc., Esi Skeete, the island is preparing for “an upsurge in airlift” from U.S. airlines by late 2023. “BTMI is very pleased by these developments as this enhanced airlift capacity for winter surpasses that of 2019,” reports Skeete.
Barbados has long been known for its white sand beaches, laid-back atmosphere, fine cuisine, and unique history and culture. Following the downturn in travel caused by the 2020 pandemic, Barbados has experienced a strong uptick in visitors, especially from the East Coast. Airlines have taken note, and have upgraded their schedules to accommodate the influx of tourists to this Caribbean hotspot.
Previously only offered on a seasonal rotation, United Airlines will now offer year-round flights to Barbados from key markets across the U.S. This was initially scheduled to start in November, however, increased demand and interest in popular upcoming events has pushed the kickoff date forward to late September. Started as a way to support winter passengers on Royal Caribbean’s Rhapsody of the Seas vessel, the popularity of the flights to Barbados has skyrocketed.
In early December, American Airlines will offer a daily flight from Charlotte to Barbados and a third daily flight from Miami to Barbados from December 20th, 2023- April 3rd, 2024.
JetBlue has doubled its service from New York to Barbados, extending these flights to February 2024.
These new airlifts come just in time to welcome tourists to the annual Barbados Food & Rum Festival on October 19-22, 2023, along with th opening of Wyndham’s new all-inclusive resort on the island. Sandal’s new all-inclusive resort opened in January of 2023, and accommodations are available across the island to welcome new and returning visitors.