KINGSTON, Jamaica — The Opposition People’s National Party says it has taken careful note of recent public statements issued by the Venezuelan Consortium of Aeronautical Industries and Air Services, S.A. (Conviasa) regarding the diversion of one of its flights to Norman Manley International Airport in Jamaica and the subsequent treatment of passengers and crew.

A caustic statement from Conviasa indicated that after “unforeseen circumstances” forced an aeroplane flying the Cancún, Mexico to Maiquetía, Venezuela route to land in Jamaica, passengers had to remain on the tarmac for around eight hours.

It accused Jamaica of aggravating the situation, expressing its “most vigorous rejection of the conduct of the competent authorities in Jamaica, by not ensuring minimum conditions of assistance, dignified treatment and operational support to passengers and the aircraft.”

However, Minister of Transport Daryl Vaz, in commenting on the matter, told the Gleaner it was his understanding that the aircraft had stopped to refuel and he was awaiting a full report.

Opposition Spokesperson on Foreign and Regional Affairs, Senator Donna Scott-Mottley, said that reports of prolonged delays, uncertainty surrounding refuelling, and concerns about passenger welfare raised serious questions that must be addressed with urgency and transparency by the Government of Jamaica.

Scott-Mottley highlighted that Jamaica is a member of the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and a signatory to the Chicago Convention which imposes certain obligations on Jamaica such as safe landing for carriers in distress, priority handling, and prompt assistance to passengers and crew, without discrimination.

The senator noted that these are not optional standards, but are binding obligations that underpin global aviation safety and Jamaica’s reputation as a responsible international partner.

In light of this incident, the Opposition is calling for:

• A full and transparent report outlining the sequence of events, including decision-making responsibilities related to ground handling and refueling;
• Clarification of the Government’s policies and protocols for handling aircraft especially in emergency situations;
• An assessment of passenger care and welfare measures, to ensure that Jamaica’s standards meet international expectations;
• Immediate steps to strengthen inter-agency coordination, including clearer lines of authority during aviation incidents involving legal or diplomatic sensitivities.

“Jamaica’s international reputation was built not only on compliance with the law, but on the humane and dignified treatment of all who pass through our borders. It is therefore essential that this matter be handled with seriousness and accountability,” said Scott-Mottley.

She urged the Government to provide the Jamaican people and the international community with a clear and timely account of what transpired, while taking all necessary steps to prevent similar occurrences in the future.

Donna Marie Scott-Mottley