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Air Jamaica is a legendary carrier that served as a national symbol and the "wings" of Jamaica for many years, connecting the island with the rest of the world. Known for its vibrant livery and the logo featuring the streamertail hummingbird, the airline always strove to turn every flight into a celebration, offering passengers a unique atmosphere of Caribbean hospitality. Despite changes throughout its history, the brand remains recognizable due to high service standards and special attention to traveler comfort. The company's history is a journey from a regional carrier to a significant player on the international stage, symbolizing the spirit of freedom and the joy of travel.

The main pride and distinguishing feature of Air Jamaica was always its exceptional service, often referred to as "celebratory service." Passengers, regardless of class, could count on complimentary beverages and an exquisite menu, making the flight not just a transfer from point A to point B, but the beginning of a vacation. The airline's crews were famous for their friendliness and professionalism, creating a warm and relaxed atmosphere on board.

Over various periods, the airline's fleet operated modern liners, including aircraft from the Airbus A320 and A340 families, as well as Boeing 727 and 737, which ensured flight reliability and safety. Safety always remained a priority for Air Jamaica: the company strictly followed international standards for equipment maintenance and pilot training. The bright aircraft, painted in national colors, were not only beautiful but also symbolized the reliability with which this carrier fulfilled its obligations to passengers.

Currently, Air Jamaica is fully integrated into the structure of Caribbean Airlines. Independent flights under the Air Jamaica brand have ceased, and all operational matters, including ticket booking and customer support, are handled through the official channels of the successor company. For any inquiries, travelers should contact the Caribbean Airlines contact center.

Official Website

Up-to-date information on flights and services is available on the official portal (the airjamaica.com website automatically redirects to this resource): www.caribbean-airlines.com

Contact Details

• Official Website: www.caribbean-airlines.com
• Customer Support (USA and Canada): +1 800 920 4225
• Customer Support (Jamaica, local calls): +1 888 359 2475
• Head Office (Trinidad and Tobago): +1 868 625 7200
• Ticket Booking: Available via the numbers listed above or through the online booking system on the website.
• Email: mail@caribbean-airlines.com (general inquiries), eticket@caribbean-airlines.com (e-ticket inquiries)
• Mobile App: Caribbean Airlines Mobile (available on App Store and Google Play)

Social Media

Historical Air Jamaica accounts are no longer updated. Current news and special offers are published on Caribbean Airlines pages:

• Facebook: facebook.com/caribbeanairlines
• Instagram: instagram.com/caribbeanairlines
• Twitter/X: x.com/iflycaribbean

Local Offices

Air Jamaica offices have been rebranded or closed. For in-person visits in Jamaica, you can contact Caribbean Airlines representatives:

• Kingston: 128 Old Hope Road, Liguanea, Kingston 6.
• Kingston Airport: Check-in counters at Norman Manley International Airport (KIN).
• Montego Bay Airport: Counters at Sangster International Airport (MBJ).

Emergency Support

Customer support operates daily. Operating hours may vary by region, but main lines (particularly in the USA and the Caribbean) are available from 07:00 to 20:00 local time. It is recommended to check the current operating hours on the official website before calling.

Baggage Rules

Preparing for a flight is the start of your journey, and packing correctly will help avoid unnecessary hassle at the airport. Since flights under the Air Jamaica brand are now operated by Caribbean Airlines, modern international standards and the rules of the successor carrier apply. Passengers are advised to familiarize themselves with the allowances in advance so that check-in proceeds quickly and comfortably.

Below are general guidelines to help you plan your baggage efficiently. Please note that exact limits may depend on the specific fare, route, and loyalty program status.

Cabin Baggage Allowance

You are permitted to take items necessary during the flight into the cabin, provided they can be safely stowed in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you. Standard rules include:

• Main Item: Usually, a passenger may take one bag (e.g., a backpack, carry-on suitcase, or trolley bag). The maximum weight is typically 10 kg, and dimensions should not exceed 114 cm in the sum of three dimensions (approximately 56x35x23 cm).
• Personal Item: Additionally, a small personal item is allowed, such as a handbag, laptop bag, briefcase, or small backpack. This item must fit freely under the seat in front of you.
• Note: Liquids in hand luggage must be in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent re-sealable bag with a capacity of no more than 1 liter.

Checked Baggage

The policy regarding checked baggage depends on the class of service. Traditionally, for flights connecting the Caribbean region with the world, the following norms apply:

• Economy Class: Usually includes 1 piece of baggage weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs). The linear dimensions of the suitcase (length + width + height) must not exceed 157 cm.
• Business Class: Premium class passengers are often entitled to 2 or 3 pieces of baggage weighing up to 23 kg or even 32 kg each, depending on the destination.

For infants traveling without a separate seat, it is often possible to transport one collapsible stroller or car seat free of charge, as well as a small bag with items weighing up to 10 kg.

Excess Baggage

If your suitcases exceed the established limits for weight, size, or quantity, an additional fee will be required. Fees for overweight and oversize baggage are cumulative.

• Overweight: A fixed fee is charged for suitcases weighing between 23 and 32 kg. Baggage heavier than 32 kg is usually not accepted as standard checked luggage and must be processed as cargo.
• Additional Pieces: Second and subsequent pieces of baggage (if not included in the fare) are paid for separately. It is recommended to pay for extra baggage online in advance, as airport rates may be higher.

Special Items

For outdoor enthusiasts and musicians, there are special rules for transporting non-standard equipment:

• Sports Equipment: Surfboards, bicycles, diving gear, or golf sets can be transported but must be securely packed in special cases. Often, such items are included in the free baggage allowance if they do not exceed weight limits, but a service fee may apply for bulky equipment (e.g., long surfboards).
• Musical Instruments: Small instruments (violin, flute) can be taken into the cabin instead of hand luggage. Large instruments (cello, guitar) are checked in hard cases. In exceptional cases, a separate seat in the cabin (CBBG) can be purchased for valuable instruments.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For safety reasons, it is strictly forbidden to transport the following in checked baggage and hand luggage:

• Explosives, fireworks, and flares.
• Flammable liquids and gases (petrol, lighter fluid).
• Toxic and radioactive substances.
• High-capacity lithium-ion batteries and electronic cigarettes (these can be transported only in hand luggage; checking them in is prohibited).

Tips for Efficient Packing

To ensure your journey is stress-free, use these recommendations:

1. Weigh at Home: Use portable scales to ensure the suitcase does not exceed 23 kg. This will save you money on excess weight fees.
2. Labeling: Be sure to attach a tag with your name, phone number, and email on the outside and place a copy inside the suitcase. Remove old tags with barcodes from previous trips.
3. Valuables: Never check in money, documents, jewelry, laptops, and important medication. Always take them with you into the cabin.
4. Bright Accent: Tie a bright ribbon or use a suitcase cover to easily identify your luggage on the carousel among many similar bags.

Traveling with Pets

Air Jamaica (under the operations of Caribbean Airlines) understands that pets are an important part of the family and strives to make their journey as comfortable and safe as possible. Transporting animals requires prior approval and careful preparation, so we recommend declaring your intention to bring a pet immediately when booking tickets, as the number of spaces for animals on each flight is strictly limited.

Transport Options

Depending on the weight, size, and species of the animal, the airline offers several transport methods. Choosing the right option ensures your pet's safety.

This option is suitable for small pets that can comfortably fit at your feet.

• Carrier Dimensions: The soft carrier bag must not exceed dimensions that allow it to fit under the seat in front (approximately 40×30×20 cm).
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the carrier is usually limited to 8-10 kg (verify current figures when booking).
• Allowed Animals: Most often, only domestic cats and dogs are permitted in the cabin.
• Comfort: The animal must be able to stand up and turn around inside the carrier.
• Limit: Usually, no more than one pet per passenger is allowed.

If your pet is too large for the cabin, it can travel in a special temperature-controlled section of the cargo hold.

• Container: A rigid container (cage) complying with IATA standards is required, with a secure lock and ventilation on three sides.
• Size Requirements: The animal must be able to stand freely with its head held high, sit, and lie down in a natural position.
• Weight: There are restrictions on maximum weight (usually up to 32–45 kg including the cage); heavier animals are processed as cargo.
• Temperature: For safety reasons, animals are not accepted for transport if air temperatures at departure or arrival airports are extremely high or low.

This method is used for very large dogs, exotic animals, or when transporting without the owner accompanying.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds baggage allowances or the route does not permit transport in the baggage hold.
• Requirements: Processing through the cargo terminal, compliance with strict veterinary and customs regulations.
• Booking: Carried out through the airline's cargo department in advance.

Required Documents

To check in for the flight, you will need a complete set of documents. The absence of any paper may be grounds for refusal of carriage.

• Veterinary Passport of international standard with microchip information.
• Health Certificate issued by a state veterinarian no earlier than 3–10 days before departure.
• Vaccination Certificate (a valid rabies vaccination is mandatory, administered at least 30 days and no more than a year before the flight).
• Import/Export Permits and international certificates required by the veterinary services of the destination country (especially strict for island flights).

Service Costs

Pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is paid separately. Rates are fixed or depend on weight.

• In Cabin: Fixed fee (usually varies from $50 to $100 per segment).
• In Hold: Cost depends on cage size and total weight (estimated from $100 to $200 and up).
• Cargo: Calculated individually according to cargo rates.

Preparation Tips

To ensure a calm flight, start preparing in advance:

• Acclimatization: Let the animal get used to the carrier or cage several weeks before the flight.
• Feeding: Do not feed the pet a heavy meal less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness.
• Container Floor: Be sure to line the bottom of the cage with absorbent pads.
• Stress: Consult a veterinarian. The use of strong sedatives is generally not recommended due to pressure changes.

Restrictions

The airline reserves the right to refuse carriage in the following cases:

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with snub noses (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) are often banned from transport in the hold due to the risk of respiratory problems.
• Aggressive Breeds: Certain fighting dog breeds may be completely banned from transport.
• Age: Puppies and kittens under 3–4 months (before immunity forms after the rabies vaccine) are usually not permitted.
• Exceptions: Service dogs and guide dogs are transported free of charge in the cabin with appropriate documents and a muzzle.

Attention: Transport rules may change depending on the aircraft type and destination. We strongly recommend contacting the airline's contact center to confirm details before purchasing a ticket.

Caribbean Miles Loyalty Program

Since the operations of Air Jamaica are fully integrated into the Caribbean Airlines structure, passengers can now enjoy all the benefits of the Caribbean Miles loyalty program. This is a unique reward system designed for frequent flyers between the Caribbean islands, as well as to North and South America, allowing every journey to be turned into new opportunities.

Membership Tiers and Privileges
The program includes several status levels, each unlocking access to exclusive services. The more you fly, the higher your status:

• Silver: Achieved by accumulating 20,000 miles in a calendar year. Members receive priority check-in, priority boarding, and bonus miles for every flight.
• Gold: Awarded for 40,000 miles. Includes lounge access for the member and a guest, priority baggage handling, and waivers on some date change fees.
• Executive Gold: The highest level (80,000 miles). Guarantees maximum comfort, including complimentary class upgrades (subject to availability), increased baggage allowance, and a guaranteed seat on the flight even during peak dates.

How to Earn Miles
Earning miles in the Caribbean Miles program is easy and convenient using various channels:

• Flights: Miles are accrued for every journey on airline flights depending on distance and booking class (minimum 500 miles per segment).
• Partners: Earning points when booking hotels and renting cars through the partner network.
• Shopping: Using co-branded credit cards (available for residents of certain countries in the region) allows you to accumulate miles for everyday spending.
• Duty Free: Bonuses for purchases in the Caribbean Colours inflight shop and duty-free catalog.

How to Spend Miles
Accumulated points are your currency for new experiences:

• Free Tickets: Exchange miles for reward flights to any point in the route network (only taxes and fees are paid).
• Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business Class for enhanced comfort.
• Transfer Miles: The option to gift accumulated points to friends or family members (Miles Transfer).
• Miles Reactivation: An option to extend the validity of expiring points for a small fee.

Alliance Membership
Currently, the airline is not part of global alliances (such as Star Alliance or SkyTeam). However, Caribbean Miles is a self-sufficient program with a wide network of regional partners, ensuring travel convenience throughout the Caribbean.

How to Join
Becoming a Caribbean Miles member is free and takes just a few minutes. To do this, fill out the registration form on the airline's official website. Immediately after registration, you will receive an individual membership number and can start earning miles from your very next flight.

Comfort Levels and Service Classes

Although Air Jamaica operations are now conducted under the aegis of Caribbean Airlines, the spirit of Caribbean hospitality remains an unchanging hallmark on board. The airline strives to make the flight not just a movement through space, but a true immersion into the relaxed atmosphere of the islands even before arriving at the destination. Passengers are offered modern and comfortable conditions that meet high international standards.

The airline's fleet serving the routes is equipped with comfortable seats and thoughtful interiors to ensure a pleasant journey on both short regional flights and longer flights to North America.

Business Class

For those who value enhanced comfort and privacy, Business Class is offered. This is the ideal choice for business travelers and tourists wishing to start their vacation with maximum convenience.

• Priority Service: Business Class passengers enjoy separate check-in counters and priority boarding, saving time at the airport.
• Comfortable Seats: The cabin features wide leather seats with increased recline and ample legroom. The cabin configuration (usually 2x2) guarantees no middle seat, providing more personal space.
• Premium Dining: The Business Class menu includes exquisite Caribbean and international dishes served on porcelain tableware, as well as an expanded selection of premium beverages.

Economy Class

Economy Class on flights connecting Jamaica with the world is famous for its friendliness and decent level of service. The airline strives to maintain the traditions of Air Jamaica's celebrated flights, offering passengers more than just a standard journey.

• Seating Comfort: Ergonomic seats with adjustable headrests ensure comfort en route. The distance between rows allows even tall passengers to sit comfortably.
• Caribbean Plus: On certain aircraft types, Caribbean Plus category seats are available, offering extra legroom and priority disembarkation upon arrival.
• Hospitality: Crews are known for their warmth and attention to detail, creating a casual and joyful atmosphere on board.

Food and Beverages

The culinary component is the carrier's pride. Even in Economy Class, passengers are offered full meals inspired by the vibrant flavors of the Caribbean.

• Authentic Cuisine: The menu often features traditional dishes such as jerk chicken, rice and peas, curries, and tropical fruits. This allows tourists to get acquainted with the local culinary culture while still in flight.
• Beverages: Passengers are offered a wide selection of soft drinks, juices, tea, and coffee. Traditionally, complimentary signature beverages are available on many flights.

Entertainment and Connectivity

To make the flight time fly by, the airline offers modern leisure solutions:

On board most aircraft (especially Boeing 737-8 and 737 MAX 8), the Caribbean View system is available. This is a streaming service allowing passengers to watch movies, series, listen to music, and track the flight map directly on their personal devices (smartphones, tablets, or laptops). To do this, it is recommended to download the airline's app in advance and charge your gadgets. In Business Class on some aircraft, individual built-in screens may be provided.

Passengers are also offered the inflight magazine Caribbean Beat, covering culture, arts, and the best vacation spots in the region.

Special Services

The airline cares about the needs of all passenger categories and offers a range of additional services for a comfortable journey:

• For Families with Children: Priority boarding is provided for families with infants. Special children's meals can be ordered on board (requires a request at least 48 hours before departure).
• Passengers with Disabilities: The company provides full assistance at the airport and on board, including wheelchair provision and help with boarding/disembarking. To receive this service, notify the airline when booking the ticket.
• Dietary Requirements: Upon prior request, vegetarian, diabetic, gluten-free, and **Halal** meals are available, accommodating medical or religious requirements.

The route network of Air Jamaica is currently centered around its key hub — the city of Nairobi. The carrier provides regular air service to important regional centers and popular resorts, offering passengers convenient options for business trips and vacations.

Useful Tips for Travelers

Planning a trip with Air Jamaica (in cooperation with Caribbean Airlines) will be much easier and more pleasant if you follow a few proven recommendations. Proper preparation will help save your budget and avoid unnecessary hassle at the airport, allowing you to enjoy the anticipation of your journey.

Best Time to Book

To "catch" the best fares, it is recommended to buy tickets in advance. For international flights, the optimal booking time is 2–3 months before departure. If you are planning travel during peak season (Christmas holidays, summer vacations, or carnival periods), it is better to take care of tickets even earlier — 4–5 months in advance. For domestic or short regional flights, good prices can often be found 3–4 weeks before the departure date.

How to Find Discounts and Promotions

To not miss out on special offers, it is worth using the following tools:

• Official Website: Regularly check the special offers section on the operator's site.
• Newsletter: Subscribe to the Caribbean Airlines newsletter. Subscribers are often the first to know about private sales and seasonal promotions.
• Flexible Dates: When searching for tickets, use the function to view prices for adjacent dates. Shifting departure by just one day can significantly reduce the cost.

Online Check-in

Don't waste time in queues at the airport — use the web check-in service. It usually opens 24 hours and closes 3 hours before the flight departure.

• Go to the website or app, enter your booking code and surname.
• Select a seat in the cabin (if one was not selected previously).
• Download the boarding pass to your mobile device or print it out.
• If you have luggage, it can be quickly dropped off at special "Bag Drop" counters at the airport.

Seat Selection Tips

Comfort in flight largely depends on where you sit. When booking or checking in, pay attention to the following nuances:

• For Views: Choose Window seats to admire the landscapes during takeoff and landing.
• For Ease of Movement: Aisle seats allow you to get up and stretch without disturbing neighbors.
• Extra Comfort: Consider paying extra for seats in the front of the cabin or at emergency exits, where there is more legroom.

Mobile App

The Caribbean Airlines Mobile app is your personal assistant in your pocket. Install it before your trip to access useful features:

• Quick booking and payment for tickets.
• Real-time flight status notifications (delays, gate changes).
• Access to a digital boarding pass (works offline).
• Managing miles in the loyalty program.

Travel Insurance

The airline strongly recommends obtaining comprehensive travel insurance before any trip. This is a small investment that will protect you from unforeseen expenses in case of flight cancellation, lost luggage, or the need for medical assistance abroad. Ensure your policy covers the entire duration of your stay and any active leisure activities if you plan to engage in them.

History and Development of Air Jamaica

The history of Air Jamaica is a tale of national pride, cultural identity, and the aspiration to connect the island nation with the rest of the world. The airline was founded in October 1968 by the Government of Jamaica, which sought to create an independent carrier without relying on foreign companies. The airline operated its first commercial flight on April 1, 1969, opening routes from Kingston and Montego Bay to New York and Miami. This event became a significant milestone for the country, which had only recently gained independence.

In its early years, Air Jamaica quickly gained popularity thanks to its unique approach to service. Unlike the strict standards of other carriers of that time, a festive atmosphere reigned on board: flight attendants wore bright uniforms, impromptu fashion shows were held right in the cabin aisle, and passengers were offered complimentary celebratory beverages and local cuisine. It was then that the company's image as a symbol of Caribbean hospitality was solidified.

Era of Privatization and Expansion
A significant stage in development was 1994, when the airline was partially privatized. Under the leadership of the renowned Jamaican entrepreneur Gordon "Butch" Stewart, a new chapter began. During this period, a massive rebranding was conducted, the fleet was renewed, and the route network expanded significantly. Air Jamaica planes with the recognizable "doctor bird" logo became a familiar sight at airports in London, Toronto, and many US cities.

Fleet Evolution
The company's technical development kept pace with the times. At the beginning of its operations, Air Jamaica utilized Douglas DC-8 and DC-9 aircraft, which became the workhorses of the first decades. In the 1970s, three-engine Boeing 727s appeared in the fleet, allowing for longer flights.

In the modernization era of the 1990s and 2000s, the company bet on liners from the European consortium Airbus. The backbone of the long-haul fleet consisted of wide-body Airbus A340s, used for flights to London, while medium-haul routes were served by A320 and A321 family aircraft. These liners were distinguished not only by comfort but also by one of the most colorful liveries in the aviation world.

Merger and Modernity
Despite the brand's popularity, the airline faced financial difficulties amid fierce competition and rising fuel prices. In the late 2000s, the Jamaican government regained control of the carrier to seek a strategic partner. In 2010, the integration process with Caribbean Airlines, based in Trinidad and Tobago, began.

The final merger was completed in 2011. Although the Air Jamaica brand was used for several years after the deal, eventually all operations were fully transferred under the Caribbean Airlines flag. Today, the legacy of Air Jamaica lives on in the route network connecting Jamaica with North America, and in service standards that are still focused on the warmth and cordiality established by the founders of the legendary airline.