ST. JOHN’S, Antigua, Dec. 14, 2015 /PRNewswire-HISPANIC PR WIRE/ — Plans made by Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Officials to welcome more flights from more airlines and tour operators around the world, upon completion of one of the largest and most modern airports in the Eastern Caribbean have rapidly taken off.

The Antigua and Barbuda Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Asot Michael, and Tourism Officials, welcomed a fourth airline into the destination, just three months after the opening of the new terminal at the V.C. Bird International Airport.

Seaborne Airlines launched its non-stop service between their hub in San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport and Antigua today with a 34 seat Saab 340 aircraft. The inaugural flight departed San Juan at 12:45 pm, and arrived into Antigua at 2:20 pm.

Seaborne Airline Officials, Mr. Hector Montanez – Director of Business Development & Marketing, Mr. Fernando Vazquez – Director of Airports, and Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Officials, Mrs. Paula Frederick-Hunte – Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism, Investment, Economic Development & Energy, and Ms. Shirlene Nibbs – Tourism Consultant for the Tourism Ministry were onboard the flight.

In welcoming the new carrier, Minister of Tourism, the Hon. Asot Michael called Seaborne Airlines, “the largest regional operator in the Caribbean.”

“The entrance of Seaborne, provides passengers with one additional option for travelling to Antigua and Barbuda, quicker and more conveniently.

“As a regional hub, the more modern V.C. Bird International Airport, was extremely appealing and advantageous to Seaborne as they seek to expand their services throughout the wider Caribbean.”

Commenting on the inaugurals held to date, the Minister said, “Our mandate is to grow airlift and to enhance our existing strategic positioning.”

“JetBlue’s launch into Antigua and Barbuda earlier in December, and today’s arrival of Seaborne, is especially significant, due to the codeshare agreement signed between the two airlines in October. What this codeshare means to the everyday traveler is that they will be able to travel from JetBlue serviced territories in the United States, to Antigua seamlessly, with one ticket, one check-in and reliable baggage transfer.”

Seaborne’s partnership with JetBlue Airways, as well as Air Europa, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, and United Airlines, means that, the airline can provide connections for passengers from thirty-three other destinations in the Americas as well as in Europe, into Antigua and Barbuda.

“We are excited to introduce Antigua as the 17^th airport served by Seaborne Airlines; the fastest growing airline in the Caribbean,” said Seaborne CEO and President Gary Foss.

“I am confident that our customers throughout the region will benefit from Seaborne’s unmatched customer service commitment, low fares and connectivity to our airline partners.”

Flights from Antigua to San Juan depart at 3:05 pm and arrive at 4:40 pm.

V.C. Bird International Airport’s growing portfolio of passenger airlines maintains Antigua and Barbuda’s position as a major hub in the Eastern Caribbean.

About Seaborne Airlines

Seaborne Airlines has been operating in the Caribbean for over 23 years, carrying approximately 3 million customers safely. With over 1,500 monthly departures to 17 airports, Seaborne serves San Juan’s Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, St. Thomas airport and Seaplane base, St. Croix airport and Seaplane base, Anguilla, Antigua, Tortola, Dominica, Martinique, Guadeloupe, Saint Martin, St. Kitts, Nevis, La Romana, Punta Cana, and Santo Domingo. All flights operate with two pilots and two engines under Federal Air Regulation Part 121, the strictest code of the US Federal Air Regulation governing air travel.

Schedule effective December 13, 2015

About Antigua & Barbuda:

Antigua (pronounced An-tee’ga) and Barbuda (Bar-byew’ da) is located in the heart of the Caribbean Sea. The largest of the Leeward Islands, Antigua & Barbuda comprises 108-square miles. The 365 white and pink sand beaches, one for every day of the year, are just the beginning of the treasures that await visitors. Antigua’s rich history and spectacular topography provide a variety of popular sightseeing opportunities. Nelson’s Dockyard, the only remaining example of a Georgian fort commissioned by the British in 1755, is perhaps the most renowned landmark. Betty’s Hope, built in 1674, is the site of one of the first full-scale sugar plantations on Antigua, and offers a chance to step back into time by visiting the restored mills. Another unique attraction is Devil’s Bridge, located at the eastern tip of the island in Indian Town National Park, where Atlantic breakers have carved out a natural limestone arch. Antigua boasts a varied tourism calendar including events such as the World Class Antigua Sailing Week, Classic Yacht Regatta, Antigua Sports Fishing and also the annual Carnival; known as the Caribbean’s Greatest Summer Festival. Island accommodation ranges from luxury resorts and all-inclusive hotels to smaller more intimate boutique guesthouses and cottages. For information about Antigua & Barbuda visit www.visitantiguabarbuda.com