Guyana celebrated a significant leap in its aviation and tourism sectors on Tuesday with the launch of non-stop flights from Canada. This was made possible due to a collaboration between Canadian Jetline and Fly Always Air Services. This major development paves the way for Canadians, both from the Diaspora and tourists, to smoothly travel to Guyana, making their trips more direct.
The grand inauguration took place at the Cheddi Jagan International Airport. According to the Department of Public Information (DPI), Minister of Public Works, Bishop Juan Edghill, warmly welcomed the passengers and underscored that the airport’s recent enhancements have now made it possible for Code F-type aircraft to touchdown in Guyana.
Edghill also attributed the successful landing of the Fly Always plane to the leadership of President Dr Mohamed Irfaan Ali. He emphasized the government’s commitment under President Ali to make travel for both Guyanese and Canadians to Guyana straightforward and comfortable.
Deodat Indar, Minister within the Ministry of Public Works, drew attention to Guyana’s swift progress and its escalating global prominence. He commented on the growing demand for air travel to Guyana, thus the necessity for more airline services.
Fly Always’ new direct route from Toronto to Guyana promises passengers biweekly flights on an A320 plane that can accommodate 174 passengers. This means there will be an impressive 36,192 seats available annually. The flight will include a brief halt in the Dominican Republic for refuelling.
Tourism Minister, Oneidge Walrond, also emphasized the importance of this pitstop in the Dominican Republic, alluding to a recent MOU signed between the two countries to boost their tourism sectors. Walrond lauded the Dominican Republic’s prowess in tourism and voiced Guyana’s eagerness to learn and leverage the connection, especially given the sizable Guyanese diaspora in Canada.
Guyana’s government has shown unwavering commitment to rejuvenating its tourism sector, directing funds towards infrastructure enhancements like airport renovations, stadium projects, and hotel constructions.
August 2023 saw Guyana registering a 14% increase in passenger traffic, amounting to 480,384 compared to the same period in 2022. This growth is 8% more than the figures before the pandemic in 2019.
As of March 2020, the nation had six active airlines. This number has since grown, with new carriers like Jet Blue, Inter Caribbean Airways, Fly Always, and British Airways joining the list under the current administration, boosting global connectivity.
Furthermore, August 2023 data showcased a 26% surge in Guyana’s cargo operations, with cargo imports climbing by 22% and exports seeing an exceptional 47% rise.
In light of these advancements, Guyana is gearing up to fortify its stature in the global tourism and aviation sectors. The non-stop flights from Canada are a testament to Guyana’s evolving prominence as a sought-after global tourist hub.
