WTM: Cayman Islands bids to improve air access

The Cayman Islands is looking to build on impressive growth from the UK by offering improved air access.

British Airways, which currently has four flights a week from London to Georgetown, is believed to be reviewing adding services as part of a major drive by the Cayman Islands’ Department of Tourism to woo new carriers.

Meanwhile, flag carrier Cayman Airways is expected to announce interlining deals with UK and US airlines at World Travel Market and in the coming months.

“About half of our arrivals come via Miami with Cayman Airways but until recently there was no interlining, so it was difficult for agents because there was no through-ticketing or through baggage,” said department of tourism regional manager Don McDougall.

Cayman Airways also operates to Houston, Chicago and New York, so interlining could open up the destination through a number of US hubs. McDougall said visiting friends and relatives traffic may then arrive on indirect flights, freeing up spaces on BA flights for tour operator traffic.

The additional air capacity is seen as vital by tourism chiefs after a significant leap in visitors in 2007. This year, the islands of Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac and Little Cayman will attract 21,000 visitors from Europe, with 80% of those from the UK – a 21% rise on last year.

Much of the rise in visitor numbers has come on the back of significant consumer advertising campaigns, but McDougall also credits the islands’ strong educational programme for agents for some of the success.

“We are relaunching our online training next year and will continue our regional roadshows, on-site training and fam trip programme,” he said. “The academy programme will be backed up with incentives of gifts and holidays for top-sellers.”

McDougall added the islands are making much of their green credentials, and had pledged to make its dive industry carbon neutral within five years.