BVI Officials Meet with Winair to Discuss Air Route Expansion
A group photo of attendees at the meeting. Photo supplied by BVI GIS.
The British Virgin Islands (BVI) Minister of Tourism, Kye Rymer, has been discussing the expansion of Winair’s route network and offering more frequent services to and from Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport.
The press release issued by the BVI government did not name any potential routes that might be added, although ministers appeared to be of one mind that air travel was necessary for mass tourism to hotels and resorts, otherwise the islands would just be relying on cruise ship passengers who notoriously spend very little in port, plus casual sailors.
In an interview with Virginislandsnewsonline.com, Rymer said requests were made for a direct flight from St Maarten to Virgin Gorda as the demand for flights into Virgin Gorda is high.
"It would be easier when you have some guests coming from say Europe and those different countries so that they can fly directly into Virgin Gorda," he explained.
One minister spoke of the BVI being a "hub" for the tourism industry, perhaps hinting that air passengers might meet cruise ships in the archipelago.
At the present time, Winair provides flights from St Maarten, St. Kitts, Antigua, the ABC islands, and some other Caribbean islands to Tortola.
Rymer alongside BVI Airports Authority officials also discussed Winair’s strategic growth plans, the enhancement of travel options to the region, and reinforcing the VI’s status as a premier destination.
Minister Kye Rymer said, "Expanding air routes is essential for boosting tourism, business, and family connections across the region. The Government of the Virgin Islands is dedicated to enhancing access to our beautiful Territory. Our discussions with Winair are a positive step towards strengthening our connectivity with Caribbean neighbors and beyond."
Chief Executive Officer of Winair, Mr. Hans van de Velde, said the airline is recognized for its extensive agreements to provide connections with major international airlines in Europe, the USA, and the Caribbean and has identified potential opportunities for service expansion in the region.
Mr. van de Velde said the meeting underscored Winair’s commitment to delivering reliable services and improving connectivity to the Virgin Islands, with discussions on the introduction of new routes that could significantly contribute to the Territory’s economic growth.
"We see significant growth potential in the British Virgin Islands. Our goal is to provide not only reliable service but also new travel opportunities within the Caribbean and to international destinations. The BVI’s unique appeal as a world-class destination necessitates a robust and seamless travel experience, and we are committed to meeting the highest standards," Mr. van de Velde said.
Meanwhile, Director of Tourism Mr. Clive McCoy pointed out the obvious in saying that air travel is essential for tourism. He added that the VI is a unique destination and ease of access is vital for success as a tourism hub.
Mr. McCoy said, "Collaborations like these are essential to ensure that visitors from near and far have better access to our islands, enhancing the overall visitor experience and supporting our tourism industry’s growth."
Managing Director of the BVIAA Mr. Kurt Menal, also welcomed the partnership with Winair, stating that the BVI Airports Authority is focused on improving regional connectivity and ensuring the Territory’s airport infrastructure can accommodate increased traffic and new routes.
Mr. Menal said, "This partnership with Winair presents a significant opportunity to enhance travel options for both residents and visitors, meeting the demands of a growing tourism market and strengthening regional ties."
Conclusion
The meeting concluded with both parties committing to ongoing discussions and collaboration to successfully expand Winair’s services to the VI. This initiative is anticipated to boost tourism, facilitate business travel, and enhance convenience for residents and visitors alike.
FAQs
Q: What is the purpose of the meeting between BVI officials and Winair?
A: The meeting aims to discuss the expansion of Winair’s route network and offering more frequent services to and from Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport.
Q: What are the potential benefits of the partnership between Winair and the BVI?
A: The partnership is expected to boost tourism, facilitate business travel, and enhance convenience for residents and visitors alike.
Q: What are the current routes offered by Winair?
A: Winair currently provides flights from St Maarten, St. Kitts, Antigua, the ABC islands, and some other Caribbean islands to Tortola.
Q: What is the BVI’s vision for tourism?
A: The BVI aims to become a premier destination for tourism, with a focus on mass tourism to hotels and resorts.