The Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) says the country is set to strengthen its position as one of the world’s most accessible island destinations over the next six months with expanded air service and seat capacity for the fall and winter months.

JTB said on Friday, Aug. 15, that, from September 2025 through February 2026, seat capacity across the island’s three major airports is projected to grow by 4.4 percent, compared to the same period last year. 

This includes Montego Bay’s Sangster International Airport (MBJ), Kingston’s Norman Manley International Airport (KIN), and Ocho Rios’ Ian Fleming International Airport (IFIA), JTB said. 

It said that, for the September-February period, MBJ will see a 5.6 percent increase in scheduled seat capacity and an 8.5 percent rise in departures year over year. 

KIN is expected to record a 1.3 percent increase in capacity and a 3.1 percent rise in departures, while IFIA is projected to see a 37 percent increase in overall capacity, JTB said. 

“This expanded airlift reflects Jamaica’s continued growth as a leading global tourism destination,” said Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett. 

“Our airline partners across North America, Europe and the Caribbean recognize the demand for our island’s world-class offerings and have responded with more seats, more gateways and more convenience for travelers,” he added. “This puts us firmly on track to meet our 5x5x5 growth targets.” 

In North America, JTB said service from key US gateways will be complemented by new Canadian connections, giving travelers more ways to reach Jamaica’s shores. 

JTB said MBJ will welcome additional US flights, including from Baltimore/Washington International Airport and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport, along with new WestJet service from Edmonton, Alberta.

In Europe, JTB said Jamaica gained its first direct Lisbon–Montego Bay flights on World2Fly Portugal, building on existing European service. 

JTB said regional connectivity has improved with LIAT operating about three weekly flights between Kingston and Montego Bay. 

“We are seeing healthy increases to our airports from diverse markets,” said Jamaica’s Director of Tourism Donovan White. “These additional seats ensure Jamaica remains well connected to both our top source markets and emerging gateways, while giving visitors more travel options than ever before.” 

JTB said the growth in airlift comes on the heels of a successful 2024, which saw 4.3 million visitors and US$4.3 billion in earnings. 

JTB said the US remains Jamaica’s top source market, accounting for about 75 percent of stopover arrivals, while Canadian and European arrivals continue to post strong year-over-year gains.