BASSETERRE, St. Kitts -- THE Federation anticipates a surge in tourist arrivals from its second-largest source market, the Caribbean, as Sunrise Airways launches its services to the destination, opening up a gateway for intra-regional travel and the exchange of goods and services.
Tourism Minister Marsha Henderson emphasized the significance of this new partnership, highlighting its alignment with the vision for the future of St. Kitts and Nevis. She stated, “Sunrise Airways' commitment to One Caribbean resonates with our goal of strengthening regional ties and fostering a vibrant Caribbean community. In the complex landscape of global tourism, connectivity acts as the linchpin.”
The government has been actively working to enhance airlift into the destination from both the United States and across the region. Recent months have witnessed the entry of InterCaribban, Jet Blue, and Caribbean Airlines into the market, bolstering arrival numbers to the Federation, which heavily relies on tourism.
“Today's arrival strengthens that crucial thread, stitching our federation of St. Kitts and Nevis seamlessly into a broader travel network. This fosters increased tourist arrivals and facilitates vital synergies across industries. Let us all imagine a vibrant exchange of ideas, cultural experiences, and business collaborations flourishing under the warm sun of St. Kitts and Nevis,” the minister remarked.
With the St. Kitts Music Festival just weeks away, the addition of Sunrise Airways provides a timely boost for the St. Kitts Tourism Authority as it aims to attract more visitors during the off-peak season.
“With the new service of Sunrise Airways, experiencing the magic of St. Kitts, including the upcoming music festival, is now easier than ever. Tourism, the lifeblood of our economy, thrives on accessibility. And so we recognize Sunrise Airways as a potent catalyst, injecting fresh life into this vital sector. The influx of visitors will translate into a cascade effect, generating employment opportunities across diverse sectors such as hospitality, transportation, retail, local artisans. All will experience a surge in economic activity. This in turn fuels infrastructure development and fosters an environment ripe for innovation and entrepreneurial ventures,” she added.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew celebrated the arrival of the new airline, reaffirming his government’s commitment to ensuring its long-term success.
“The government of St. Kitts and Nevis stands ready to provide support to ensure the success and sustainability of Sunrise Airways' operations within our jurisdiction. We will work collaboratively to address challenges, seize opportunities, and innovate in ways that enhance the overall travel experience for passengers while fostering economic prosperity for our nation.”
Ellison ‘Tommy’ Thompson, CEO of the St. Kitts Tourism Authority, commended the airline for expanding airlift to St. Kitts from the Caribbean, noting a significant increase in connectivity.
“Like you, all of us at Sunrise Airways are committed to sustainability, environmental stewardship and the preservation of our natural resources and cultural heritage. We wholeheartedly endorse the progressive vision put forth by the Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis in these areas and look forward to supporting your efforts toward achieving sustainable island state status in the years to come.”
Philippe Bayard, CEO of Sunrise Airways, expressed excitement about the airline's entry into the St. Kitts-Nevis market, marking a new chapter in its expansion into the broader Eastern Caribbean region. He emphasized Sunrise Airways' commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship, aligning with the Federation's vision of becoming a sustainable island state.
“We feel privileged to collaborate with the Government of St. Kitts and Nevis in advancing the forward-thinking agenda, benefiting both the Federation and the wider Caribbean region. In closing, I want to thank everyone who has been involved in making today possible. Your dedication has been a great source of inspiration to us all.”
