Government Vows to Protect Airlift After JetBlue Drops JFK-Antigua Nonstop Service

The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has responded to JetBlue Airways‘ decision to discontinue its nonstop service between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and V.C. Bird International Airport after October 31, 2026.

The change became apparent after the airline’s reservation system stopped offering nonstop flights on the route beyond that date, prompting concern among travellers who rely on the direct connection between New York and Antigua.

Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez acknowledged that the development is disappointing but stressed that it reflects a broader trend affecting airline networks globally rather than an issue specific to Antigua and Barbuda.

“While this development is disappointing, it is important to recognize that it is not unique to Antigua and Barbuda,” Fernandez said. “Airlines worldwide are continually reviewing their networks and optimizing aircraft deployment in response to changing market conditions.”

Despite the loss of the nonstop service, tourism officials say they are working closely with JetBlue to preserve convenient access to the destination through the carrier’s connecting network.

Dean Fenton, Director of Tourism for the United States at the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority (ABTA), said the authority remains engaged with the airline while continuing to strengthen relationships with other carriers serving the destination.

“The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority will keep working with JetBlue to maximize connectivity through the airline’s hub network and help ensure our destination stays easily accessible to travellers,” Fenton said. “At the same time, we will keep collaborating with all of our airline partners to strengthen Antigua and Barbuda’s airlift and protect our competitive edge in the North American market.”

Officials noted that JetBlue has recently adjusted several routes across the Caribbean as part of a wider strategy to optimize its network and aircraft utilization. Similar reductions have affected nonstop services from New York to Providenciales in Turks and Caicos, Montego Bay in Jamaica, and Puerto Plata and Punta Cana in the Dominican Republic.

The Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority said it remains committed to maintaining strong airlift into the destination and will continue working proactively with airline partners to support the country’s expanding tourism sector and ensure visitors continue to have reliable access from key international markets