THE government’s interest and priority lies in ensuring that development continues in Guyana, and so they are willing to work with Delta Airlines to secure its local presence.

Acting Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce, Irfaan Ali asserted this position last week as he fielded questions on the impact Delta’s exit will have on the tourism sector in Guyana.
“Most of you by now have heard of the announcement from Delta; we have made it very clear to Delta that we want to work with them, the issue they raised was one of capacity, but they have added a few hundred flights since they started,” Ali explained.
He noted that despite the fact that government has been in discussion with other airlines so as to fill the void that would be created when Delta leaves Guyana’s skies in May, government is willing to work with Delta in supporting their operations.
85 per cent
The minister said that demand was not the issue, pointing out that since Delta began direct flights from John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, Timehri (CJIA), its average seating capacity was at 85 per cent.
The Tourism Minister acknowledged that the beginning of 2013 was tough in light of a 28 percent reduction in seating capacity due to the exit of REDjet early in 2012 and Ezejet’s flight suspension in the latter half of the year.
Despite this, Ali assured that government is seeking to fill the “void” created and will work towards ensuring that Guyana continues on its developmental trajectory.
“We have had a few discussions and our last communications is that we are awaiting various options and proposals that they (Delta) will submit to us and to see if there is any feasible option,” he stated.
Ali explained too that the government will be seeking to address the issue of fuel prices as they move towards the expansion of the CJIA, which is set to be a major hub.