THE date for the Caribbean Airlines takeover of the national carrier Air Jamaica has been pushed back from April 12 to April 30.

A release from the Air Jamaica divestment team today stated that the new date by which the transition arrangement is to be fully in place was agreed on late yesterday with the Trinidad-owned airline.

Air Jamaica Chairman Dennis Lalor was quoted as saying that Air Jamaica had agreed to the extension to ensure that enough time is devoted to completing negotiations.

“The extension is also intended to ensure a seamless launch of the operations into the transition period,” Lalor said.

The divestment team said negotiations with Caribbean Airlines were at a very advanced stage.

“As is expected with transactions of this nature, they are very complex and require extensive attention to detail. Jamaicans can rest assured that the details being worked out in respect of these negotiations are designed to ensure that the best possible arrangement is made for Jamaica and Jamaicans.” the release stated.

During the transition period, Air Jamaica will continue to operate on its routes, using its current fleet of aircraft, its current regulatory authorisations, and its current “JM” code.

Many of Air Jamaica’s employees will also be utilised under a Caribbean Airlines/Air Jamaica interim agreement.

The transition period may last up to one year.

All reservations made previously and tickets purchased on Air Jamaica will continue to be honoured. Additionally, all 7th Heaven frequent flyer benefits will continue and all passengers, shippers and business partners can continue to rely on Air Jamaica to continue providing its usual services.

The airline will continue to provide flights from Jamaica on the New York, Fort Lauderdale, Toronto, Baltimore, and Philadelphia routes.