Major achievement for Grenada’s Tourism Industry

ST GEORGE’S, Grenada, December 15, 2011 - GRENADA’S TOURISM continued its march into new boundaries Thursday when the first regularly scheduled direct flights to Canada were inaugurated.

“It’s another history making occasion for Grenada,” declared Tourism Minister Peter David as the Caribbean Airlines flight bound for Toronto got ready to depart.

The flight originates in Port of Spain, but for people going between St George’s and Toronto, it will be a no-hassle direct connection, that is now on the permanent schedule.

Charter airlines have seasonal schedules between the two cities, but the new deal hammered out by Grenada’s Tourism officials afford for the fixed commercial schedule.

The new service is twice weekly.

The inaugural flight was sent off with much fanfare by a high level tourism delegation including Minister David, new Grenada Board of Tourism Chairman Colin Dowe and officials of the airport authority and the Airlift Committee.

The party was on hand to greet Vice President of Operations for Caribbean Airlines Captain Thomas Lawrence and his team followed by a short Ribbon Cutting ceremony.

Minister David speaking after the cutting of the ribbon says importance of regular access to the Canadian market could not be over emphasized.

“For us it’s a wonderful day and a good boost to our tourism industry, and anything that is good for tourism is good for Grenada,” he said.

“Getting into the Canadian Market directly is a hopeful sign and wonderful Christmas gift for Grenadians in the Diaspora as well as perspective Canadian visitors,” Minister David added.

Excited passengers boarded the historic flight amidst cheers following the cutting of the Ribbon by Tourism Minister Peter David 

Director at the Grenada Board of Tourism Simon Steill admits that increased marketing of the island in Canada will have to be given priority.

“It is our intention to work with Caribbean Airlines to put a strong marketing campaign package for the year ahead,” he disclosed.

“We now have two weekly scheduled flights in addition to other seasonal   flights so we have a lot of work to do to ensure we keep the passenger traffic at its peak,” Steill added.

Captain Thomas Lawrence of Caribbean Airlines says it’s a landmark occasion for Caribbean Airlines.

“We have other services to Grenada but the addition of any new route is an exciting moment and it is our intention to connect Grenada directly with other international markets.

The inauguration comes only weeks after the Ministry of Tourism unveiled a new national tourism master plan to push the industry forward in the next two years, and is the start of a new push for increased regional and international connections out of Grenada.

SOURCE: Betty-Ann Lazarus