Jamaica is gearing up for a strong winter travel season with expanded air connectivity from key international markets and the reopening of major resorts, offering travelers more opportunities to experience the “One Love” island. New and increased airlift service from the United States, Canada and Latin America, coupled with the continued restoration of Jamaica’s hotel inventory, marks another significant step forward in the destination’s amazing recovery following 2025’s Hurricane Melissa.
The island has welcomed over 2 million visitors and earned US2.5 billion between January to August of this year.
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“We are looking forward to welcoming travelers from around the world to Jamaica this winter season,” said Hon. Edmund Bartlett, Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism. “The continued confidence of our international airline partners, coupled with the reopening of our hotels and ongoing investments in tourism infrastructure, reflects the strength of Jamaica’s recovery. We remain committed to expanding connectivity, enhancing the visitor experience and ensuring that tourism growth continues to benefit communities across the island.”
Expanded air connectivity
Jamaica is making it easier for international travelers to reach the island through new and expanded airlift service. In the United States, Breeze Airways has introduced twice-weekly service from Tampa, while Canadian carrier Porter Airlines is adding nearly 5,000 seats for the winter season through new nonstop routes to Montego Bay from Toronto, Ottawa and Hamilton. Air Canada is also serving Jamaica from Halifax, Ottawa, Edmonton and Winnipeg, providing additional options for Canadian travelers.
The destination is also strengthening connections with Latin America. Copa Airlines has expanded service from Panama, operating 10 weekly flights to Montego Bay and five weekly flights to Kingston. Colombian carrier Wingo introduced year-round service in 2026, with three weekly flights each from Bogotá and Medellín, further expanding Jamaica’s reach in the region.
A winter season filled with Jamaican culture and experiences
Beyond the island’s beaches and resorts, visitors can experience Jamaica’s rich cultural traditions through a calendar of music, sporting and lifestyle events. Upcoming highlights include Annie’s Revenge golf tournament in November, followed by the Reggae Marathon in December. From live reggae performances and authentic Jamaican cuisine to outdoor adventures and cultural experiences, the winter season offers travelers opportunities to connect with the people, places and traditions that define the island.
“Jamaica’s appeal extends well beyond our beaches and resorts,” said Donovan White, Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board. “From our music and culinary heritage to the warmth of our people and the experiences found throughout the island, Jamaica continues to offer travelers compelling reasons to visit. With expanded air access and more accommodations welcoming guests, we look forward to sharing all that Jamaica has to offer this winter.”
More resorts welcoming guests
The expansion in airlift comes as Jamaica continues to restore its hotel inventory ahead of the winter season. More than 75% of the island’s room inventory is currently operational, with 90% projected to be available by Dec. 1, 2026. Additional properties are scheduled to reopen throughout the remainder of 2026 and into early 2027. Among the properties slated to welcome guests again for the busy winter travel season include Coyaba Beach Resort, Sandals South Coast, Bahia Principe Explore Runaway Bay and JOIA Rose Hall by Iberostar.
“Behind every hotel reopening are Jamaican team members eager to welcome guests and local businesses ready to reconnect with visitors,” said Philip Rose, Deputy Director of Tourism, Jamaica Tourist Board. “As more properties welcome guests this winter, we look forward to sharing the warmth and personal hospitality that keep travelers coming back to Jamaica.”
For more information about Jamaica and to plan a visit, go to www.visitjamaica.com.
