ANTIGUA & BARBUDA TOURISM AUTHORITY

 The Antigua & Barbuda Tourism Authority recently confirmed that British Airways has agreed to increase the number of flights into Antigua for the upcoming tourist season. From 26th October, 2010 British Airways will once again commence daily flights from London to Antigua; an increase from the current schedule of 5 flights per week to 7 flights per week. Even more encouraging is the fact that the airline plans to maintain a strong year round schedule. The number of flights for summer will increase from 5 to 6 flights per week with two of the six flights now completely dedicated to Antigua. The increase in flights is being driven by strong demand for the destination for both the winter and summer seasons.

“The steady rise in visitor arrivals from the UK is very encouraging. What we are seeing is the success of the strategic work being undertaken by the UK Office. The UK team is working to build strong relationships with our travel industry partners, building confidence and reinforcing the positives that the destination has to offer. This has laid the foundation for travel agents and tour operators to push Antigua & Barbuda with greater confidence. The airlines recognize this and have moved to capitalize on the increased demand.” said CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority Colin C. James.

This latest news comes shortly after Virgin Atlantic announced an additional direct flight from London for the upcoming season which will give Virgin Atlantic two direct flights and one shared flight to Antigua.

Tourism Minister John Maginley also endorsed the renewed confidence in the destination by the UK travel trade.

“This is fantastic news for the destination. It means that we have reversed the deficit in airlift caused by the loss of the charter flights. The airlines are responding to demand for the destination and the UK office is working closely with industry partners to ensure those extra seats are filled".

" We believe lack of airlift has stifled our growth out of the UK and with these additional flights we look forward to seeing the UK arrival figures continue to grow.” Said John Maginley, Minister of Tourism, Culture & Civil Aviation.

The UK Office this week secured excellent coverage for the destination with a three page spread in one of the UK’s major weekly travel trade magazines; Travel Weekly. The article highlighted many superb deals being offered by the hotel properties. It also featured some themed activities planned for the upcoming season including Tennis Week at Carlisle Bay in November and an alternative Bollywood Christmas organized by Jolly Beach Resort.

Representatives from the UK Office are currently in Antigua with 29 top selling independent travel agents; Travel Counsellors, who are being rewarded for their achievements in selling the destination. The group will be visiting various hotel properties as well as touring visitor sites and attractions.