LATAM Airlines has reinstated its direct service between Lima, Peru, and Montego Bay, Jamaica. The inaugural flight, which landed at Sangster International Airport on Sunday, December 1, 2024, arrived at full capacity, underscoring the demand for this route.
Boosting Regional Connectivity and Tourism Growth
The new service operates three times weekly on Thursdays, Saturdays, and Sundays and is expected to bring 45,000 visitors to Jamaica in its first year. This initiative aligns with Jamaica’s strategic focus on expanding its tourism market into South America.
Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, highlighted the importance of this development:
“The South American market represents the next frontier for Jamaica’s tourism growth. Through LATAM’s Lima hub and our ongoing discussions with other carriers, we are positioning Jamaica to become the number one Caribbean destination for South American visitors.”
Donovan White, Director of Tourism, echoed the sentiment, emphasizing the broader implications:
“This air connectivity represents more than just a new route – it is a gateway to the entire South American region and its collective population of over 700 million people. LATAM’s extensive network ensures that Jamaica is now accessible to millions of potential visitors.”
A Milestone for Both Regions
The relaunch of this route strengthens ties between Jamaica and Peru and enhances Jamaica’s access to over 20 South American destinations via LATAM’s Lima hub. The flights are expected to significantly contribute to Jamaica’s tourism goals, which have already seen record-breaking numbers.
Celebrations and Future Plans
The route’s launch was celebrated with ceremonies in Lima and Montego Bay, attended by government officials, aviation leaders, and tourism stakeholders from both nations. Building on the service’s success, LATAM plans to increase flight frequency to daily by the summer of 2025.
