InterCaribbean Airways launched a direct flight between Guyana and Grenada on Sunday, aiming to create business opportunities and connect Caribbean people.
There will be twice weekly between the Maurice Bishop International Airport in Grenada and the Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA), Timehri.
All flights will be operated by interCaribbean ERJ 145 jet.
The inaugural flight landed at the CJIA on Sunday afternoon.
On that flight was a delegation from Grenada led by the country’s Minister for Mobilisation, Implementation and Transformation, Andy Williams.
Addressing a welcome ceremony, Williams described the connection as a “game changer” for both Grenada and Guyana.
He said with the flight travelling has been made easier and accessible more than ever whether it’s for business or just leisure.
“This is more than a new route. It is a bridge that connects two vibrant nations, rich in culture, commerce and connectivity.
“This new route simplifies journeys, strengthens relationships and opens doors of countless opportunities for all people,” Williams said.
For the business community, Williams said the route creates a easier pathway to explore investments, partnerships and trade.
“The connection is an invitation to experience the best of what we have to offer.
“The direct flight between Grenada and Guyana is more than just a route. It is a symbol of what we can achieve when we come together with vision,” he said.
The duration of a flight between the two countries is approximately one and a half hours.
Chief Executive Officer of interCaribbean Airways, Trevor Sadler hinted at further expanding the airline with new connections likely for Guyana in the future.
“There are bigger things coming…what that does for us as a company is even giving us bigger range capacity as to where we can fly,” Sadler.
Meanwhile, in this remarks, Director of the Guyana Tourism Authority, Kamrul Baksh said the addition of the route is pivotal in Guyana’s history.
Prior to this, passengers were required to take a connecting flight to get to Grenada from Guyana.
“The Caribbean region is incredibly open to Guyana’s tourism product and interCaribbean is going to play a very fundamental role in connecting and bridging the divide,” Baksh said.
Also on the flights were influencers and media professionals from both countries.
They will be participating in a familiarisation trip, organised by the Guyana Tourism Authority in collaboration with interCaribbean Airways, over the next few days.
The purpose of the trip is to highlight the various sites and exchange culture and cuisine. It is aimed at promoting Guyana and Grenada as must-visit destinations.