Bonaire Welcomes JetBlue’s First Flight To The Island

Tourism Corporation Bonaire (TCB), in partnership with The Public Entity of Bonaire, Bonaire International Airport (BIA), and Bonaire Hotel and Tourism Association (BONHATA), welcomed JetBlue’s first flight to the island of Bonaire, on November 5^th, 2024. The Bonaire Ambassadors welcomed the Airbus A350 with a flag salute, followed by a celebratory event at the airport.

TCB warmly welcomed all arriving visitors in a cultural setting with folkloric and ‘ka’i orgel’ music and local ambassadors dressed in traditional folkloric attire. All visitors received a welcome gift as a mark of appreciation for flying to Bonaire on JetBlue’s inaugural flight.

At the ceremony event, Miles Mercera, CEO of TCB, signified his excitement for the new partnership and air services of JetBlue to Bonaire. “Welcoming JetBlue as an airline partner marks a significant step in our commitment to making our beautiful island more accessible to North American travelers,” noted Miles Mercera. “This expansion not only reflects the growing interest in our region but also showcases our dedication to fostering tourism and welcoming visitors to experience the unique culture and stunning landscapes we have to offer. Together, we’re paving the way for new adventures and unforgettable memories.” Commissioner Clark Abraham, Maarten van der Scheer, CEO of BIA, Veroesjka de Windt, CEO of BONHATA, and David Jehn, Vice President of Network Planning and Airline Partnerships at JetBlue, all expressed enthusiasm for continuing building the partnership and cooperation between JetBlue and Bonaire.

In continuation with the celebration of this milestone for the island of Bonaire, TCB, in collaboration with Diamond Public Relations and sector partners, invited a group of Freelancers and Media Partners based in the city of New York to come and explore the island, partake in some fun activities, and try new culinary experiences for the first time. The Media Trip is scheduled to take place from November 9^th to 12^th, 2024.

The new, nonstop flight will operate twice weekly, departing on Tuesdays and Saturdays from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) at 7:00 a.m. and arriving at Bonaire at 12:35 p.m. The return flights will depart Bonaire at 1:50 p.m. and land at JFK at 5.35 p.m.

A special thank you goes to the partners of JetBlue and JetBlue hotels on the island: Captain Don’s Habitat, Chogogo Beach & Dive Resort, Delfins Beach Resort, Divi Flamingo Beach Resort, Fiesta Tours Bonaire, Grand Windsock Bonaire, Harbour Village Beach Club, Maduro & Curiel’s Bank Bonaire, Plaza Beach & Dive Resort, Sorobon Luxury Beach Resort, and The Bellafonte.