American Airlines Adds Late-Night BVI Service
American Airlines has begun late-night arrivals and early-morning departures between Miami and Terrance B Lettsome International Airport, reducing the need for overnight stays in Miami. The daily service began Dec. 18 and will operate through March, tourism and airport officials say.
American Airlines has launched a late-night arrival and early-morning departure service to the British Virgin Islands, a change officials say will strengthen air connectivity and cut the need for overnight layovers in Miami. The new schedule began on December 18 when Flight 3668 arrived at Terrance B Lettsome International Airport (Beef Island) at 10:14 pm.
The first early-morning departure followed on December 19, with Flight 3398 leaving the airport at 8:00 am. The service will operate daily through March, the BVI Tourist Board and Film Commission said in a press release. Officials said the added overnight option builds on American Airlines’ existing operations, which already include five daily nonstop flights between Miami and Beef Island. ‘‘The new service expands access to key US markets, strengthens our tourism offering, and provides greater flexibility for residents, visitors, families and business travellers alike,’’ BVIAA Director Kurt Menal said, calling the overnight service ‘‘a major milestone that significantly enhances air connectivity to the British Virgin Islands.’’ Director of Tourism Clive McCoy said the schedule change removes a major barrier to travel. ‘‘Improved air access is critical to the continued growth of tourism in the British Virgin Islands, and this expanded American Airlines service marks a significant step forward,’’ he said.
Tourism officials highlighted benefits for visitors from North America, the UK and Europe, noting the new timings make it easier to reach the Territory without overnight stops. Air access has long been a challenge for residents and visitors, with limited schedules frequently forcing overnight stays in transit hubs.
The overnight service is expected to ease those challenges by offering more flight options and greater arrival and departure flexibility, which could benefit local businesses, family travel arrangements and the Territory’s tourism recovery. Residents and visitors should note the service is seasonal through March and are advised to check flight schedules, baggage rules and any connecting arrangements before booking.
The BVI Tourist Board and BVIAA recommend passengers also plan onward travel between Beef Island and other islands, as ferry and charter schedules may need to be coordinated with the new arrivals and departures. The launch was announced by the BVI Tourist Board and Film Commission and welcomed by airport officials as part of continuing efforts to improve air links and support the Territory’s tourism economy.
Primary source: BVI News