KINGSTON, Jamaica — Buoyed by a nearly 80 per cent year-over-year surge in visitor arrivals from South America last year, the Ministry of Tourism is now advancing strategic plans to significantly expand airlift from the region.

According to a release from the Ministry of Tourism, following high-level discussions with airline executives in Colombia and Panama last week, the ministry is intensifying Jamaica’s push into the Latin American market, targeting a substantial increase in seats for the 2026 and 2027 winter tourist seasons.

“We are building on an exceptional period of growth from the Latin American region. Jamaica recorded a 75.9 per cent year-over-year increase in Latin American arrivals in 2025, with standout performances across key South American markets, Peru, Argentina and Chile,” said Minister of Tourism, Edmund Bartlett.

“These discussions follow a surging demand and a reaffirmation of our commitment to making Jamaica the most accessible and compelling Caribbean destination for travellers from across that region. As discussions continue, we are aiming to conclude the added lift by mid-year.”

Jamaica’s existing LATAM airlift — currently operating at average load factors between 80 per cent and 86 per cent aross active routes — demonstrates the strength of underlying demand. Travel and tourism revenues across Latin America are expected to grow at approximately 6.7 per cent annually through 2030 which positions Jamaica to capture an increasing share of this outbound spend.

“Travellers from the region are drawn to Jamaica because we offer cultural affinity, value, and ease of access. With this in mind, we have support from well-established tour operators and travel trade to drive more awareness and engagement,” said Director of Tourism Donovan White.