Passengers bound for Kingston, Jamaica, on American Airlines’ inaugural flight from Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) were given a taste of the island prior to takeoff on November 4. The celebration included giveaways and Blue Mountain Coffee courtesy of the Jamaican Travel Bureau and music played by American’s in-house employee DJ. Joining American crew members for the ribbon cutting were (shown at left, from left) Lakshman Amaranayaka, American's Vice President of PHL Hub Operations; Philip Rose, Regional Director for the Jamaica Tourist Board; Alsion Roach Wilson, Consul General of Jamaica, New York; and Jim Tyrrell, PHL Chief Revenue Officer. 

“When American told us they were bringing the nonstop, year-round Kingston service to PHL, we were thrilled,” said Tyrrell. “Kingston is one of our region’s biggest underserved Visit Friends and Relatives (VFR) destinations. Before today, passengers that were traveling to Kingston either needed to start their journey at another airport or add time to their trips with layovers. This new service will get them to their loved ones faster, from their home airport.” 

American’s service between KIN and PHL is slated to operate year-round, three times per week on Mondays, Thursdays and Sundays. Kingston is American’s second nonstop route from PHL to Jamaica. The airline also operates regular year-round service to Montego Bay (MBJ). The PHL-MBJ route resumed daily service this month.