Antigua and Barbuda is set to significantly enhance its international connectivity with the launch of weekly direct charter flights to Cartagena, Colombia. This new route, scheduled to commence on October 24, 2025, marks a pivotal step in the twin-island nation’s strategy to bolster tourism, deepen economic ties with South America, and solidify its position as a gateway to the Eastern Caribbean. The initiative is a collaborative effort between the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), regional airline LIAT 2020 Ltd., and BlueSea, a platform dedicated to promoting Latin American tourism to the Caribbean.
Expanding Horizons: A Gateway to New Markets
The introduction of these weekly charter flights signifies a strategic expansion for Antigua and Barbuda’s tourism sector. Minister of Tourism Charles Fernandez highlighted the route’s potential, stating, “We are beginning with a weekly charter flight, and I am confident that it will expand over time—we could even see daily service.” This sentiment was echoed by Colin James, CEO of ABTA, who celebrated the route as “a gateway to new markets.” He emphasized that South America represents a region with substantial tourism growth potential, and this flight could “open up an entire continent as a new source market for Antigua and Barbuda.” This move aligns with Antigua and Barbuda’s broader objective to become a recognized tourism and commercial hub within the Caribbean.
A Collaborative Endeavor: LIAT 2020 and BlueSea
The establishment of this direct air link is made possible through a strategic partnership between LIAT 2020 Ltd. and BlueSea The Latin American Traveller. This collaboration is the culmination of years of planning, with the idea of directly connecting Antigua and Barbuda with Colombia predating the COVID-19 pandemic. BlueSea CEO María Britto Bettini noted that while the pandemic caused delays, the importance of this connection was always recognized. LIAT 2020 will operate these flights using its next-generation aircraft, promising a swift journey of approximately two and a half hours. Charmaine Spencer, Director of Tourism for the Caribbean and Latin America at ABTA, underscored the flight’s ability to attract not only leisure travelers but also corporate groups and premium tourists seeking the exclusivity of the islands.
Unlocking New Opportunities: Economic and Cultural Exchange
The new route is expected to yield significant economic benefits for Antigua and Barbuda, a nation recognized as the Caribbean’s fastest-growing economy in 2024. Beyond boosting the tourism sector, the direct flights are anticipated to create new opportunities for economic growth and development. For travelers, this initiative offers quick and comfortable access to Antigua and Barbuda’s renowned beaches, rich cultural heritage, and genuine hospitality. It also provides an avenue for Caribbean residents to explore the historical, cultural, and culinary richness of Cartagena and other Colombian regions. Furthermore, the route is beneficial for Colombian nationals seeking medical treatment, offering a more direct travel option, especially for those without U.S. visas who face transit challenges.
A Strategic Focus on Latin American Markets
This development is part of Antigua and Barbuda’s concerted effort to cultivate stronger ties with Latin America, a market identified as increasingly strategic and possessing considerable growth potential. The country has been actively participating in trade events and engaging with airlines to lay the groundwork for enhanced connectivity. The growing interest from Latin America, evidenced by a 13% rise in arrivals in the first half of the year, underpins the significance of this new air link. The initiative also aims to position the entire Caribbean region more broadly by fostering greater integration and accessibility with South America.
Looking Ahead
The launch of weekly charter flights to Cartagena represents more than just a new travel option; it signifies a strategic investment in regional integration and economic prosperity. As Antigua and Barbuda continues to enhance its global presence and solidify its appeal as a premier Caribbean destination, this direct connection to South America is poised to unlock new avenues for tourism, trade, and cultural understanding, promising a vibrant future for both nations involved.