The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has responded swiftly to JetBlue Airways' decision to discontinue its nonstop service between New York's John F. Kennedy International Airport and V.C. Bird International Airport, effective after October 31, 2026.
The change came to light after JetBlue's reservation system ceased offering nonstop bookings on the route beyond that date, raising concern among travellers who depend on the direct New York-Antigua connection.
Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez described the development as disappointing but framed it within a wider global trend rather than a reflection of any issue specific to Antigua and Barbuda.
"While this development is disappointing, it is important to recognize that it is not unique to Antigua and Barbuda," Fernandez said. "Airlines worldwide are continually reviewing their networks and optimizing aircraft deployment in response to changing market conditions."
Despite the loss of the nonstop route, tourism officials say they are working closely with JetBlue to preserve convenient access to the island through the carrier's connecting network.
Dean Fenton, Director of Tourism for the United States at the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), said the authority remains engaged with JetBlue while continuing to strengthen ties with other carriers serving the destination.
"The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority will keep working with JetBlue to maximize connectivity through the airline's hub network and help ensure our destination stays easily accessible to travellers," Fenton said. "At the same time, we will keep collaborating with all of our airline partners to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda's airlift and protect our competitive edge in the North American market."
JetBlue has recently adjusted several routes across the Caribbean as part of a broader strategy to optimize its network and aircraft utilization. Similar cuts have affected nonstop services from New York to Providenciales in Turks and Caicos, Montego Bay in Jamaica, and Puerto Plata and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.
The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority says it remains committed to maintaining strong airlift into the destination and will continue working proactively with airline partners to support the country's growing tourism sector and ensure visitors retain reliable access from key international markets.
