There was an air of anticipation as the many passengers and dignitaries await at Kennedy Airport in New York, the arrival of FLY JAMAICA, for its inaugural flight. There were the usual greetings as Jamaicans gathered, but there was genuine excitement that the Jamaica Brand would be flying. There was also the genuine goodwill for the success of the venture.
When FLY JAMAICA landed at Kennedy Airport on Thursday February 14, it could be clearly seen from the gate that the passengers were waiting. A roar went up, people clapped and scrambled to take photos – FLY JAMAICA had arrived. You could feel the excitement among those waiting to board the flight.
As the passengers waited patiently, another round of applause started as the FLY JAMAICA Crew entered the gate area ready for the Inaugural Flight; more photos, more hugs.
Then the Official Ribbon Cutting – Participating were Captain Ron Reece, Chairman/CEO of FLY JAMAICA, Mr. John Lynch, Director of Tourism, Jamaica, Mr. Will Rogers, Consultant to FLY JAMAICA, Ms. Ann Marie Francis, FLY JAMAICA’s Area Manager for the New York area, Ms. Kayla Reece, daughter of Captain Reece, Hon. Herman Lamont, Jamaica Consul General to New York. With the usual fanfare and photo op, the Boeing 757-200 Aircraft was ready for its Inaugural Flight to the Norman Washington Manley Airport in Kingston.
On board, the enthusiasm among the passengers continued; Community Leaders, Media Representatives, Religious Leaders, Alumni Associations and regular passengers were all in a celebratory mood. While there was a slight delay in departure, it did not dampen the enthusiasm.
The airline’s performance got high marks from those on board; the hot meals were welcomed, as were the two checked bags available on all flights with service in all cabins; the care and professionalism of the cabin crew was noticeable, and the flight, commanded by Captain Reece himself, was smooth.
On board, Bishop Cecil Riley provided the Spiritual Blessings and Inaugural Certificates were given to all the passengers. There was a sense that passengers were participating in an historic occasion and look forward to real success.
On arriving at Norman Manley Airport in Kingston, the flight was greeted with enthusiasm- a Reception was held and in a sense, the mission was accomplished.
The Airline , with the theme “ ONE DREAM, ONE TEAM, PROMOTING NATIONAL PRIDEâ€, will operate four flights per week, including Sundays out of Kennedy Airport, New York, and will be looking to service the new York area and the entire community.
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