The allure of the Caribbean, with its turquoise waters, pristine beaches, and vibrant culture, has always been strong. However, for those residing on the West Coast of the United States, reaching this tropical paradise often involved lengthy layovers, connecting flights, and a considerable investment of travel time. Now, travelers can rejoice, as a significant upgrade in air travel options is underway, promising easier and faster access to the Caribbean. This November marks a turning point, with Cayman Airways launching the only commercial non-stop route between the West Coast and the Caribbean, and American Airlines increasing its direct flights to Anguilla. This article delves into the details of these exciting developments, exploring the destinations, the airlines, and the potential impact on tourism and the economies of these beautiful island nations.
A Game-Changer for West Coast Travelers: Cayman Airways to Grand Cayman
Beginning November 5th, Cayman Airways, the esteemed national flag carrier of the Cayman Islands, will inaugurate a weekly non-stop service connecting Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) in California to Owen Roberts International Airport (ORIA) in Grand Cayman. This monumental route marks the first and only direct flight between the West Coast of the United States and the captivating Cayman Islands.
For years, West Coast residents dreaming of a Caribbean escape had to contend with circuitous routes, often involving red-eye flights followed by extended layovers in East Coast hubs or Miami. This often translated into lost vacation time and added travel fatigue. The introduction of this direct flight eliminates these inconveniences, offering a seamless and efficient journey to the heart of the Caribbean. Before this, the closest direct route operated by Cayman Airways was out of Denver.
Kenneth V. Bryan, the Cayman Islands Hon. Minister for Tourism and Transport, expressed his enthusiasm for this new venture, stating, "The department of tourism and my ministry have been working closely with Cayman Airways for many months to bring this route to fruition [because] Los Angeles is a ripe market for expansion and provides us a strategic gateway to the West Coast."
He further emphasized the strategic importance of this connection, noting that California residents already constitute a significant portion of the Cayman Islands’ annual visitors from the United States, accounting for over four percent. The ease and convenience of the new direct flight are expected to significantly boost these numbers, contributing to the Department of Tourism’s ambitious goal of achieving at least 50 percent of the tourism accommodation revenue banked in 2019.
The new direct flight, There’s Now a Direct Flight Between the Caribbean and the West Coast, is also expected to open doors to travelers from Asia and Australia, providing them with a more accessible route to the Caribbean’s alluring shores.
Discovering the Wonders of Grand Cayman
Grand Cayman, the largest of the three Cayman Islands, is a gem in the Caribbean, renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty, luxurious resorts, and a wide array of activities to suit every traveler’s taste. From the world-famous Seven Mile Beach, with its powdery white sand and crystal-clear waters, to the vibrant underwater world teeming with marine life, Grand Cayman offers an unforgettable vacation experience.
Visitors can immerse themselves in the island’s vibrant culture, savor delectable cuisine, and explore a range of attractions, including:
- Stingray City: A unique and unforgettable experience where visitors can interact with friendly stingrays in their natural habitat.
- Diving a Shipwreck: Grand Cayman is a diver’s paradise, boasting numerous shipwrecks and stunning coral reefs.
- Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park: A tranquil oasis showcasing the island’s diverse flora and fauna, including the endangered Blue Iguana.
The Cayman Islands are also known for its luxury accommodations.
Flight Details and the Boeing 737-8
Cayman Airways will operate this year-round service using one of its new fleet of Boeing 737-8 aircraft. The flight will depart LAX on Sundays and return from Grand Cayman on Saturdays. The flight time is approximately five and a half hours, making it a swift and comfortable journey to paradise.
To celebrate the launch of this groundbreaking route, Cayman Airways is offering an introductory fare of $399, making this Caribbean dream even more attainable.
Boosting the Local Economy: Tourism and Film
Beyond its impact on tourism, the new direct flight, There’s Now a Direct Flight Between the Caribbean and the West Coast, is expected to stimulate the Cayman Islands’ burgeoning film industry. Minister Bryan hopes that the enhanced accessibility from the Entertainment Capital of the World will attract filmmakers to the archipelago, showcasing its stunning landscapes and contributing to the local economy.
The Cayman Islands have already served as a backdrop for several high-profile productions, including the 2021 action-comedy "Red Notice," starring Ryan Reynolds, Gal Gadot, and Dwayne "The Rock" Johnson. The islands also recently hosted the filming of "Littlemouth," a sci-fi feature starring Dennis Quaid, Isabelle Fuhrman, David Thewlis, and Josh Hutcherson.
By facilitating connections between the Cayman Islands Film Commission and decision-makers in Hollywood, the direct flight aims to foster the growth of the local film industry, creating new opportunities and bringing economic benefits to the islands.
American Airlines Enhances Service to Anguilla
While Cayman Airways is connecting the West Coast to the Caribbean, American Airlines is bolstering its presence in the eastern Caribbean by increasing the frequency of its direct service from Miami International Airport (MIA) to Anguilla’s Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA).
From November 3rd to December 17th, the airline will operate eight weekly flights, doubling the previous fall schedule of four flights per week. From December 18th to January 8th, 2023, the number of flights will further increase to 11 per week, providing even greater access to this idyllic island during the peak festive season.
Kenroy Herbert, the Anguilla Tourist Board chairman, lauded the success of American Airlines’ non-stop service, stating, "The success of American Airlines’ non-stop service to Anguilla speaks to the demand for our destination and the strength of our tourism product. In less than a year, we moved from two flights a week to eight. This service has opened up new markets for Anguilla, the U.S. West Coast, Canada, and South America."
Minister of Tourism Haydn Hughes echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the critical role of direct air service in growing business: "Expanding direct air service is critical to growing business as easy and convenient direct access is a key consideration for travelers. [It] is proving to be a game changer for our island, and we are confident that additional carriers will follow."
Anguilla: A Serene Caribbean Escape
Anguilla, a tranquil coral island dotted with 33 pristine beaches, offers a serene and luxurious escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. Renowned for its powdery white sand, turquoise waters, and upscale resorts, Anguilla is a haven for relaxation and rejuvenation.
The enhanced direct service from Miami makes Anguilla even more accessible to travelers seeking a tranquil Caribbean getaway.
A History of Accessibility
Prior to the introduction of American Airlines’ direct service in 2021, reaching Anguilla required a flight into Saint Martin followed by a ferry or boat transfer. This added considerable time and inconvenience to the journey, often deterring potential visitors. There’s Now a Direct Flight Between the Caribbean and the West Coast to Anguilla made traveling significantly easier.
The direct flight has revolutionized travel to Anguilla, allowing visitors to be on the beach enjoying their vacation within half an hour of arrival. This shortened journey is particularly beneficial for families traveling with children, a key demographic for Anguilla.
The Future of Caribbean Travel
The launch of Cayman Airways’ direct flight from Los Angeles to Grand Cayman and American Airlines’ increased service to Anguilla represent a significant step forward in Caribbean travel. These developments not only enhance accessibility for travelers but also offer a glimpse into the future of air travel, where direct routes and seamless connections are prioritized.
These new routes will undoubtedly contribute to the growth of tourism in the Cayman Islands and Anguilla, fostering economic development and creating new opportunities for local communities. As the demand for Caribbean travel continues to rise, we can expect to see further expansion of direct flight options, making this tropical paradise even more accessible to travelers from around the world. This new direct flight, There’s Now a Direct Flight Between the Caribbean and the West Coast, represents a welcome change for those seeking sun, sand, and serenity.
