BA says Grenada remains among preferred destinations

by Michael Bascombe

LONDON, UK, Nov 11, 2008 – Grenada continues to be a preferred destination for British Airways despite a gloomy outlook due to the global economic crisis, according to BA officials.

Tourism Minister Peter David has been meeting with officials of the airlines to discuss marketing strategies for the next season.

The Minister, who is attending the World Travel Market in London, met with BA’s Head of UK and Leisure Sales, Adam Daniels on Monday and was assured by BA that Grenada continues to be a preferred destination and they are considering increased flights to Point Salines International Airport for 2009/2010 season.

“For BA, Grenada continues to show strength as a destination,” Daniels said.

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Minister David said that “BA is a significant carrier particularly as it originates in the UK, the source of the one of our main tourist markets.”

The meeting was also attended by William Joseph, Director of Tourism and Richard Strachan, Chairman of the Grenada Board of Tourism.

The delegation also met with Monarch Airlines to discuss the new flights from the UK beginning in December. The airline replaces Excel Airways and will service both Grenada and Tobago.

Excel grounded operations in September after being forced to enter into Administration having suffered as a result of volatile fuel prices, the economic downturn, and were unable to obtain further funding.

The Minister and his delegation also met with several travel agents and tour operators who all expressed optimism about the future for the Tourist Industry in Grenada. He also attended the Annual Guild of Travel Writers Dinner where Grenada featured prominently.

The delegation also did interviews with British and European Media. "All these media opportunities assist in exposing Grenada to the British and European market.

"We believe that despite the present world economic downturn the prospects are very good for the tourism industry in Grenada." Joseph said.

Minister David has also been looking into increasing the flow of tourists from Canada to Grenada. During a recent visit to Toronto he indicated the main hurdle to cross was beefing up airline travel from Canada.

The first step has been taken with the resumption of direct service from Miami which is an important gateway from the North American market.

On Wednesday Minister David will attend the Commonwealth Ministers of Tourism meeting in London and will also meet with the Grenadian organisations in London.

They have expressed excitement about the Diaspora Desk at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.