No need for alarm over US airfares as demand for JA surges, says JTB

OCHO RIOS, St Ann — Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) Deputy Director of Tourism for the Americas Philip Rose says there is no need for alarm over recently elevated airfares from the United States, arguing that the steep prices are a reflection of strong demand for the island rather than weakening interest in the destination.

Rose said airline capacity into Jamaica is currently broadly aligned with the island’s available hotel inventory, about 70 per cent of which has been restored following Hurricane Melissa. With the remaining rooms expected to reopen by early 2027, he said, additional airlift should follow.

Speaking with the Jamaica Observer on Monday after addressing the opening of the Jamaica Product Exchange (JAPEX) at Moon Palace Jamaica in Ocho Rios, Rose said the unusually high fares seen recently were driven largely by flights operating at, or beyond, capacity.