Appointed Deputy CEO in January 2026, Karen Virapin becomes the first woman from the French overseas territories to reach this level of governance within Air Caraïbes. A major development for the airline, but also a strong signal for the Caribbean air transport sector. Beyond the symbolism, this appointment raises a central question: what concrete impact could it have on governance, social dialogue, the regional network and service quality?
An appointment that reflects continuity, but not stasis
Having been with the company for fourteen years, Karen Virapin is no parachute. A former Director of Human Resources, Karen Virapin has been involved in all the company’s structural transformations: organizational changes, workforce growth, adaptation to the economic and social constraints of the airline industry. Her appointment to the position of Managing Director is therefore a logical step in the company’s continuity.
But continuity does not mean standstill. In a sector as exposed as air travel, marked by a fragile balance between costs, social demands, quality of service and local expectations, governance plays a decisive role. And it is precisely at this level that this appointment takes on its full meaning.
First woman from the French overseas territories to reach this level: a signal for Caribbean aviation
Air transport has historically been a very male-dominated sector, particularly in the executive ranks. The arrival of Karen Virapin as Managing Director is therefore a strong marker, both for the representation of women and for that of talent from the French overseas territories.
This signal goes beyond the company’s internal framework. It refers to a broader reality: the ability of companies operating in the Caribbean to recognize locally-built career paths, rooted in a detailed knowledge of the region, and not solely the result of external trajectories. This recognition is not just symbolic; it can influence the way strategic decisions are made, prioritized and implemented.
Social dialogue: a strategic lever, not a slogan
In the airline industry, social dialogue is never a secondary issue. Working conditions, organization of schedules, changes in professions, operational pressures: every decision has a direct impact on the stability of the company and the customer experience.
The fact that the new Managing Director comes from a human resources background is not insignificant. This does not guarantee the absence of tensions or consensual decisions, but it does imply a method. A method based on an understanding of internal balances, the expectations of both flight and ground crews, and the constraints specific to Caribbean services.
In the medium term, the impact will be measured less by rhetoric than by concrete indicators: social climate, ability to anticipate conflicts, continuity of service in sensitive periods.
Caribbean-Guyana regional network: local governance put to the test
Based in Pointe-à-Pitre, Karen Virapin embodies a form of governance rooted in the territories served. This geographic positioning is not neutral. It puts management as close as possible to the realities of the Antilles-Guyane regional network, which is often faced with specific challenges: flight regularity, connections, territorial continuity, and the expectations of residents and tourism professionals alike.
It’s not just a question of maintaining individual lines, but of ensuring their overall coherence. How can we link regional and transatlantic networks? How can we guarantee a clear and reliable offer in a context of increased competition and pressure on costs? Here again, future decisions will enable us to assess the real scope of this so-called “local” governance.
Service quality: maintaining high standards in a context of transformation
One of the major challenges for any airline lies in its ability to transform itself without degrading the quality perceived by passengers. Fleet modernization, internal reorganization, operational adjustments: each change entails a risk for the customer experience.
Against this backdrop, the new Executive Vice President’s career path will be closely scrutinized for consistency between internal transformation and the service promise. Punctuality, regularity, quality of welcome and management of disruptions are all concrete markers for passengers and for the regions that depend on air connectivity.
What territories can expect to see in the coming months
For the French West Indies and Guyana, the stakes go far beyond internal governance. It affects mobility, tourism, economic attractiveness and daily life. The concrete impact of this appointment can be assessed through a number of weak but revealing signals: social stability, legibility of the regional offer, continuity of services, capacity to adapt to unforeseen events. It’s not a question of waiting for spectacular ruptures, but of observing whether the promise of an anchored leadership, attentive to Caribbean realities, is translated into reality.
An appointment observed far beyond the company
Karen Virapin’s appointment to the position of Chief Operating Officer is more than just a new face inAir Caraïbes governance. She also embodies a broader evolution in the relationship between companies, territories and leadership in the French Caribbean. It’s an evolution that’s still fragile, but one that’s full of structural challenges. The next few months will tell whether Karen Virapin’s appointment marks a mere symbolic milestone, or a lasting step forward in the way we think about the governance of Caribbean air transport.
Karen Virapin is a French executive originally from Guadeloupe, appointed Chief Operating Officer of Air Caraïbes in January 2026. She has been with the company for fourteen years, and for over a decade held the position of Director of Human Resources.
Her career has been built up both in France and in the West Indies, with solid experience of organizational management and social dialogue in a demanding air transport sector. Her appointment makes her first woman from the French overseas territories to reach this level of governance within the company.
The Managing Director holds a executive position governance. She works in close coordination with General Management and is directly involved in the company’s strategic, operational and organizational decisions.
- – supervision of internal organization,
- – managing structural transformations,
- – social dialogue with teams,
- – consistency between business strategy, operational constraints and service quality.
Air Caraïbes plays a central role in air connectivity in the French West Indies and French Guiana. The company provides both:
- – essential transatlantic links with France,
- – a structuring regional network for intra-Caribbean mobility.
On December 15, 2025, Aimé-Césaire airport welcomed the first direct flight from Bordeaux to Fort-de-France, operated by CORSAIR. This new route marks a strategic turning point for Martinique’s connectivity and accessibility to the Caribbean from south-western France.
A three-way partnership to enhance regional appeal
The arrival of this inaugural flight at 5:47pm is no coincidence. It is the result of several months of collaborative work between three key players: Société Aéroport Martinique Aimé Césaire (SAMAC), the airline CORSAIR and the Comité Martiniquais du Tourisme (CMT).
Nathalie Sébastien, Chairman of SAMAC’s Management Board, hails this collective dynamic: “It’s all about selling a territory, selling a destination. And that’s only possible with the partnership of an airline and the Comité du Tourisme.” For her, this route embodies a clear vision: to open Martinique’s skies to the French provinces, beyond the traditional Parisian gateways of Orly and Charles de Gaulle.
The President underlines the historical, economic and academic links between Bordeaux and Martinique. “It’s a chance for the Martinican community living in Bordeaux to return more often and more easily to Martinique, and vice versa”, she explains. But beyond the diaspora, the entire South-West region now has seamless access to Martinique, without having to transit via Paris.
Marie-Ange Ravin, CMT Board member and representative of President Bénédicte Di Geronimo, emphasizes the strategic dimension of this opening: “The development of flows from the provinces is a major strategic focus for the Comité Martiniquais du Tourisme. For a long time focused on Paris, Martinique’s accessibility is now expanding towards high-potential outbound regions.”
A line designed for mobility and accessibility
Every Monday from December 15, 2025 to April 20, 2026, CORSAIR will operate this seasonal route during the high season. The choice of day and time slots is not an insignificant one. As Nathalie Sébastien explains, “agreeing on the choice of day and time slots is important, as it will have an impact on the passenger experience.” The aim is to facilitate travel for a full week, during a period when Martinique’s airport is very busy.
Eddy Luce, CORSAIR’s Regional Director for the Antilles, confirms this strategic approach: “For us, this is a strong signal to the people of Martinique. CORSAIR continues to invest in the overseas territories to strengthen the island’s accessibility and connect it sustainably to the major French regions.” The company is currently the only one to offer direct flights from the provinces to Martinique, with Bordeaux and Nantes departing from Pointe-à-Pitre.
This route meets strong demand. Load factors have been excellent since sales opened in March 2025. “If you’d like to fly to Bordeaux, I urge you to get your ticket right away, as seats are going to be a bit tight,” warns Eddy Luce with a smile.
A modern fleet for sustainable tourism
CORSAIR has chosen to operate this route with its most modern fleet: the Airbus A330 Neo, which now accounts for 100% of its long-haul operations. These latest-generation aircraft offer a dual advantage: enhanced passenger comfort and a reduced environmental footprint.
“Their technology reduces CO₂ emissions per seat by 25% and the noise footprint by 60%,” Eddy Luce details. For the company, it’s a concrete way of contributing to more sustainable air transport while maintaining essential routes. With an average fleet age of just two years, CORSAIR has the youngest fleet in its category on the market.
This move upmarket also translates into a premium passenger experience. The company has been rewarded two years running by Skytrax as Best Leisure Airline, in 2024 and 2025. “Our ambition is clear: to offer all our customers, whatever their class of travel, a modern, high-quality flying experience,” asserts the Regional Director.
Financial and marketing support to perpetuate the line
Aware that launching a line is not enough, SAMAC has set up a tailor-made support system. “Our aim is also to enable Martiniquais to discover Bordeaux,” explains Nathalie Sébastien. The airport has committed support both in terms of airport charges and marketing, via social networks and targeted promotional actions.
On the CMT side, work on outbound markets began in September 2025 with a major operation in Bordeaux. “We organized a meeting with nearly a hundred travel agents from the Bordeaux and Nouvelle-Aquitaine regions, in partnership with CORSAIR and Bordeaux airport, so that agencies could program and give greater visibility to packages between Bordeaux and Fort-de-France”, explains Gaëtan Paderna.
The program continues with digital campaigns, promotional caravans and easy-to-use packages to encourage bookings. The message is clear: this line must be a long-term one.
More than an air link, a human bridge
Beyond the tourism and economic stakes, this new link has a profoundly human dimension. In particular, it meets the mobility needs of young Martiniquans studying in Bordeaux, one of France’s major university cities. “This direct service will make it easier for them to maintain links with their home territory, their families and Martinique”, emphasizes Marie-Ange Ravin.
For families in the diaspora, it’s also a new-found convenience. Travel between the two territories becomes smoother and more accessible, with a reduced carbon footprint thanks to the absence of a Paris stopover.
Nathalie Sébastien concludes with a warm invitation: “Truly, don’t be afraid to set off and discover what these two territories have to offer. A direct link means more opportunities to travel, more opportunities to discover others, even if it’s someone else you think you know. Dare to travel, dare to discover.”
This inaugural Bordeaux – Fort-de-France flight is much more than just a new air route. It’s a bridge between two territories, an opportunity for tourism, the economy, young people and the future of Martinique.
About CORSAIR CORSAIR is a French airline specializing in long-haul services to French overseas territories and leisure destinations. It operates a 100% Airbus A330 Neo fleet and was voted best leisure airline by Skytrax in 2024 and 2025.
About SAMAC SAMAC: Société Aéroport Martinique Aimé Césaire manages Martinique’s international airport, which has benefited from over 120 million euros of modernization work and can handle over 3 million passengers a year.
About CMT The Comité Martiniquais du Tourisme is responsible for promoting Martinique as a destination to national and international outbound markets.
FAQ
The direct Bordeaux – Fort-de-France flight operated by CORSAIR began on December 15, 2025, with the first inaugural flight welcomed at Aimé-Césaire airport in Martinique.
The service runs once a week, every Monday, from December 15, 2025 to April 20, 2026, during the peak tourist season.
CORSAIR operates this route with Airbus A330 Neo, latest-generation aircraft that reduce CO₂ emissions per seat and enhance passenger comfort.
On November 4, 2025, the Ariane 6 rocket successfully completed its mission, placing the Sentinel-1D satellite into orbit. Lift-off from the Guiana Space Center in Kourou took place at 6:03 pm under perfectly clear skies. Thirty-four minutes later, the satellite reached orbit, confirming the reliability of the European launcher and the skill of the teams mobilized on site. This success reinforces French Guiana’s place in European space history, and illustrates the decisive role played by this Caribbean territory in global scientific innovation.
A perfectly executed mission
Designed in its twin-engine version, Ariane 6 ensured a flight without the slightest incident. All systems operated stably, from ignition to satellite release. The European Space Agency (ESA) confirmed receipt of the first signal from Sentinel-1D thirty-nine minutes after liftoff, validating the launch as a complete success. This flight marks a new stage in the ramp-up of the Ariane program.
Objective: to guarantee Europe total autonomy of access to space. For French Guiana, this launch consolidates its role as a strategic space base, a symbol of technical and human know-how recognized the world over.
The Guiana Space Centre, a driving force for success
For over half a century, Kourou has been home to the French Guiana Space Center, Europe’s spaceport. Its geographical position, close to the equator, allows it to benefit from the Earth’s rotation, saving fuel while increasing payload capacity.
EachAriane 6 launch mobilizes hundreds of specialists: engineers, technicians, operators and safety experts. This activity sustains thousands of direct and indirect jobs in French Guiana, and reinforces the region’s image as a major scientific player. Beyond the local economy, the entire Caribbean region is involved in a project of global scope, uniting innovation, technology and international cooperation.
Sentinel-1D: a satellite at the service of the Earth
The Sentinel-1D satellite, launched by Ariane 6 is part of the European Copernicus program, designed to observe the planet with unrivalled precision. This satellite replaces Sentinel-1A, launched eleven years ago, and will operate alongside Sentinel-1C. It carries a synthetic aperture radar capable of capturing images of the Earth’s surface, day and night, even under cloud cover.
The data it gathers is essential for maritime surveillance, natural disaster prevention, soil studies and mapping vulnerable areas. Thanks to this information, scientists can monitor land movements, floods and the effects of climate change on coastlines.
The Caribbean and environmental challenges
From Kourou, satellites powered by Ariane 6 contribute to understanding the climatic phenomena affecting the Caribbean. The region’s islands are among the most exposed to sea-level rise, deforestation and cyclones. Copernicus data enable us to observe these trends and adapt risk management policies.
These radar images are used to map mangroves, monitor coral reef degradation and assess coastal erosion. Through these missions, French Guiana and the Caribbean are actively participating in the global scientific effort to better protect tropical territories. Each launch of This makes Ariane 6 a concrete step towards sustainability and environmental awareness.
Exemplary scientific cooperation
The Sentinel-1D mission is the result of a close partnership between ESA, the European Commission, Thales Alenia Space and Airbus Defence and Space. This cooperation demonstrates the excellence of the European industrial model.
Simonetta Cheli, ESA’s Director of Earth Observation Programs, commented: “This launch aboardAriane 6 completes the Sentinel-1 mission. It ensures the continuity of service that is essential for understanding our environment and for climate research.”
Ramon Torres, Sentinel-1 project manager, praised the collective work of the European and Guyanese teams, underlining the importance of this achievement for the global scientific community. Thanks to these joint efforts, Europe is consolidating its leadership in Earth observation.
Modern, responsible technology
Measuring 60 meters long and weighing nearly 900 tons, Ariane 6 has been designed for flexibility and performance. Its Vulcain 2.1 main engine and reignitable Vinci upper stage enable multiple satellites to be launched on a single mission, while reducing costs and emissions.
The launcher complies with the strictest environmental standards. European engineers have integrated technologies that limit the production of space debris and optimize energy consumption. This concern for efficiency illustrates the desire to reconcile scientific progress with ecological responsibility. By placing Sentinel-1D in orbit, Ariane 6 demonstrates that innovation and sustainability can go hand in hand.
French Guiana, between Europe and the Caribbean
The Guiana Space Center embodies the link between Europe and the Caribbean. This tropical territory, both Amazonian and maritime, symbolizes cooperation between continents. In an environment dominated by nature, the presence of the spaceport bears witness to a rare alliance between high technology and preservation of the natural environment.
Each mission is a reminder that French Guiana is not on the bangs of Europe, but at the heart of a global project focused on science and the future. The rockets Ariane 6 rises from this Caribbean territory to serve global research, unite peoples and inspire a new generation of engineers and researchers.
Ariane 6: a shared vision
The successful launch on November 4, 2025 confirms the strength of the European space program. With Ariane 6, Europe has a competitive, safe and sustainable launcher. This success illustrates the ability of European teams to innovate from a Caribbean base.
French Guiana continues to be the pillar of this adventure, linking Earth to space, science to society. Each mission bears witness to the cooperation between nations, and to our confidence in the future. Under the skies of Kourou, the Caribbean proves that it is not only a place of nature, but also a place of progress and excellence.
A strategic conference in Trinidad and Tobago
The press conference held in Trinidad and Tobago on October 6, 2025, as part of the ACI-LAC 2025 ANNUAL ASSEMBLY – CONFERENCE AND EXHIBITION, brought together the region’s leading airport industry executives. Around Mónica Infante (President of ACI-LAC and CEO of Aerodom), from the Dr. Rafael Echevarne (Managing Director, ACI-LAC) and Hayden Newton (Managing Director, Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago), discussions focused on traffic growth, sustainability and the investments needed to support the growth of air transport in the Caribbean and Latin America.
ACI-LAC which stands for Airports Council International – Latin America & Caribbean, is the regional branch of the worldwide airport organization. It represents the interests of 91 members operating over 360 airports in 42 countries and territories in the region.
ACI World confirms record figures
Data released during the ACI-LAC 2025 Annual Meeting show that passenger traffic in Latin America and the Caribbean will reach 789 million passengers by the end of 2025.
The best-performing countries will be :
- – Colombia 105 million (+5.6%)
- – Mexico 191 million (+4.5%)
- – Brazil: 221 million (+2.1%)
The region (Latin America and the Caribbean) is expected to handle nearly 821 million passengers in 2026 according to official ACI World projections. These figures reflect the strength of the post-pandemic recovery and the Caribbean’s growing place in international connectivity.
Long-term forecasts and a global pace
Regional air traffic is expected to reach 1.725 billion passengers by 2053, with an average annual growth rate (CAGR – Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 2.9% over the next thirty years, a rate similar to the global average.
The ACI World report also states that traffic will double between 2024 and 2047, from 758 million to 1.482 billion passengers.
Annual growth projections by sub-region confirm :
- – Mexico: +3.4%, driven by the expansion of its international hubs ;
- – Brazil: +2.4%, sustained by growth in domestic traffic ;
- – Caribbean: +2%, more moderate growth, due to the small size of island markets, their dependence on tourism and the current limitations of inter-island connectivity;
- – Other Latin American countries (excluding Mexico and Brazil) : +3%, thanks to economic diversification and new regional air corridors.
Colossal investments for sustainable growth
Capital expenditure requirements (CAPEX) for the period 2026-2040 amount to US$82.6 billion, of which over US$30 billion will be devoted to the construction of new greenfield airports.
According to data from the ACI-LAC 2025 Annual Meeting, every million additional passengers generates 9,500 jobs and $25 million in GDP, demonstrating the direct economic impact of air transport on the region.
Carbon neutrality and accessibility: regional leadership
On the environmental front, speakers highlighted the results of the Airport Carbon Accreditation (ACA) program at the ACI-LAC 2025 ANNUAL ASSEMBLY.
By September 2025, 621 airports worldwide were certified, including 104 in Latin America and the Caribbean. The region thus ranks second in the world for the number of airports committed to this approach.
This internationally recognized program assesses and rewards airports’ efforts to reduce their carbon emissions, in line with ACI World’s Net Zero 2050 objective.
The other indicator of progress concerns Accessibility Enhancement Accreditation (AEA): of the 47 airports certified worldwide, 17 are in the LAC region. This distinction confirms the role of the Caribbean and Latin America as world leaders in air accessibility for passengers with disabilities.
Connectivity and liberalization: the pillars of the future
Looking beyond the figures, Mónica Infante and Rafael Echevarne stressed the urgent need to strengthen intra-Caribbean connectivity.
For Mónica Infante, the priority is to break down regulatory barriers and create a framework enabling new regional airlines to operate freely.
For his part, Rafael Echevarne reiterated that air transport liberalization is essential to boost competition and reduce costs for passengers.
“Aviation is not just an economic sector, it’s a vital infrastructure for the integration and sustainable development of our territories,” he declared.
Finally, Hayden Newton underlined the Airports Authority of Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to modernizing infrastructure through biometrics, automated systems and digital innovations.
The ACI-LAC 2025 ANNUAL ASSEMBLY confirmed the dynamic growth, innovation and sustainability of the airport sector in Latin America and the Caribbean.
With solid forecasts, massive investment and a vision focused on carbon neutrality, the region is establishing itself as a model of resilience and transformation in global air transport.
The Airline Conference 2025 will take place in Cayenne, French Guiana, on October 23 and 24. This event confirms the commitment made during the first edition in 2024 in Martinique: to give French Guiana the responsibility of hosting the sequel.
This second edition takes place against a backdrop marked by the need to strengthen regional connectivity, accelerate the ecological transition and prepare for the future of space. The Airline Conference 2025 promises to be a strategic event for the entire Antilles-Guyane region.
Six preparatory workshops to lay the foundations for the conference
In September, six preparatory workshops brought together airports, airlines, aviation authorities, local authorities, space experts and economic players. These working sessions enabled us to draw up a diagnosis and outline the main lines that will structure the Airline Conference 2025.
1. Multiscale connectivity and emerging companies
The arrival of new operators such as Caribbean Airlines, the growth of St-Barth Executive and the opening of specific routes (to Cap-Haïtien, by Sunrise) were among the highlights of the discussions. However, participants emphasized the weight of the European regulatory framework, which is stricter than that of other Caribbean countries, and recalled that airlines are now demanding risk-sharing with the territories.
2. Airport governance and performance
A comparative overview highlighted the diversity of management models: concessions in Martinique, Guadeloupe and French Guiana, local authority management in Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Martin, and a state-owned company model in Barbados with a PPP project. Discussions converged on the need to create a regional body that would be more technical than political, in order to strengthen cooperation between platforms.
3. Aerospace skills and synergies
Preparations for the Antilles-Guyane Air Transport Conference also highlighted the urgent need to structure a common frame of reference for aerospace professions. Maintenance, remote piloting of drones, space engineering: the needs are numerous and strategic. The creation of a Caribbean aerospace cluster was chosen as a priority tool for federating rectorats, universities, CNES and ENAC.
4. Ecological transition and sustainable air travel
The prospect of COP30 in Brazil set the tone for the discussions, with the reduction of carbon footprints taking center stage. Air France-KLM detailed its strategy (fleet modernization, 10% sustainable fuels by 2030), while SARA presented its plans for local biofuel production. The region’s airports emphasized their climate resilience and renewable energy initiatives.
The creation of an SAF group purchasing platform and joint lobbying of the European Union to adapt the ETS system have been identified as priorities.
5. Freight, logistics and regional integration
The findings are clear: freight is structurally lagging behind, particularly in Cayenne. The EFTI4All project was highlighted as a lever for digitizing and simplifying customs procedures. Participants stressed the importance of supporting SMEs to avoid a digital divide, and of exploiting the potential of free trade zones to boost exports.
6. Financing and innovation
The workshop highlighted the difficulties of financing strategic projects such as Flying Whales in French Guiana, and proposed the creation of a regional investment fund. Financial institutions (AFD, BPI, SEM patrimoniale, Caribbean banks) were identified as essential partners. All players agreed on the priority of formalizing the air and space cluster at the Airline Conference 2025.
The official program for October 23 and 24, 2025
The round tables and plenary sessions announced will provide a concrete framework for the priorities emerging from the preparatory workshops. The two-day format will enable the Airline 2025 Conference to move from strategic reflection to operational commitments.
Day 1 – Thursday, October 23, 2025, Cayenne
- 🕐 12:30 pm – 2:00 pm : Inaugural lunch.
- 🕐 2:00 pm – 4:00 pm : Opening plenary – Connecting the basin: from inter-island links to international gateways – towards an integrated Antilles-Guyane airspace – Plateau des Guyanes.
- 🕐 16h00 – 18h00 : Round Table 1 – From air to space: forging skills and innovations for a sustainable, shared future.
- 🕐 7:00 pm: Welcome cocktail.
Day 2 – Friday, October 24, 2025
- 🕐 09h00 – 09h45 : Opening plenary.
- 🕐 10h00 – 12h00 : Round Table 2 – Airport hubs: drivers of competitiveness and regional cooperation..
- 🕐 12h00 – 13h30 : Lunch.
- 🕐 1:30 pm – 3:00 pm : Round Table 3 – Freight and logistics: building tomorrow’s value chains in the Guiana Shield and Greater Caribbean..
- 🕐 3:30 pm – 5:30 pm : Round Table 4 – Investing in air travel: financing and partnerships for sustained growth.
- 🕐 17:30 – 18:00: Closing plenary.
Strategic challenges for the region
The Airline Conference 2025 aims to provide clear answers to several major challenges. The Airline Conference 2025 aims to ensure the continuity of inter-island links, strengthen training, accelerate the ecological transition and modernize freight. It will also lay the foundations for a regional fund, by formalizing public-private partnerships.
An assertive political dimension
The Airline Conference 2025 goes beyond the technical framework: it symbolizes a strong political will. After Martinique in 2024, French Guiana is keeping its promise to organize this second edition, and asserting its strategic position in Caribbean cooperation.
On October 23 and 24, Cayenne will become the focal point for the region’s aviation and space ambitions. The Airline 2025 Conference will mark a new stage in regional cooperation.
Saint-Martin is gearing up for a new phase in its air connectivity. Several regional and American airlines have announced the opening of new routes or the increase of existing frequencies. These announcements strengthen the island’s accessibility and consolidate its role as a Caribbean hub. In this context, direct flights to Saint Martin are becoming a major lever for supporting tourism and the local economy.
Contour Airlines: stronger ties with Puerto Rico
From November 14, 2025, Contour Airlines will operate a new direct service between San Juan (Puerto Rico) and Princess Juliana International Airport (SXM). Three rotations per week are planned: Tuesday, Friday and Sunday.
The company will operate 30-seat regional aircraft, a format suited to short routes and regular traffic flows. This service is strategic: it brings Saint-Martin closer to the rest of the Lesser Antilles, simplifies business travel and offers regional tourists direct access to the island.
With this announcement, Contour confirms the importance of direct flights to Saint Martin in the structuring of an efficient Caribbean air network that complements international routes.
Southwest Airlines: Orlando and Baltimore depart from 2026
The arrival of Southwest Airlines is a major step forward for Saint-Martin. From April 7, 2026, a daily flight will connect Orlando (MCO) to the island. Two days later, from April 9, 2026, a weekend service will be inaugurated from Baltimore/Washington (BWI).
These openings are strategic. Orlando is a fast-growing tourist metropolis and a major outbound market. Baltimore, on the other hand, provides access to a vast customer base on the East Coast. With these new services, travelers will benefit from more direct flights to Saint Martin, reducing journey times and boosting tourist arrivals.
JetBlue: reinforcement from Boston
JetBlue, already present on several Caribbean routes, has confirmed an increase in service to Saint-Martin. From December 18, 2025, service between Boston Logan (BOS) and SXM will become a daily frequency, compared with just a few flights a week previously.
This development reflects the steadily growing demand for direct flights to Saint Martin from the northeastern United States. Boston represents a strategic market, particularly for high-end customers attracted by seaside resorts and quality hotel services. At the same time, JetBlue continues to strengthen its position from Fort Lauderdale, consolidating its position as a major player in Caribbean air links.
Frontier Airlines: unprecedented access from Atlanta
Low-cost carrier Frontier Airlines has chosen to enter the Saint-Martin market with a new route linking Atlanta (ATL) to SXM. The service will begin on December 6, 2025, with one weekly flight.
Atlanta is one of the world’s largest air hubs, connecting virtually all major American cities. Thanks to this opening, Saint-Martin benefits from wider access to a huge market. Even if frequency remains limited, this development confirms the general trend: the multiplication of direct flights to Saint Martin is at the heart of the strategies of airlines seeking to expand their presence in the Caribbean.
Expected economic and tourism benefits
The impact of these announcements goes far beyond the airline industry. Tourism is the central pillar of St. Martin’s economy, and each new direct flight contributes to increasing the attractiveness of the destination.
The increase in direct flights to Saint Martin offers several advantages:
- Easy access from strategic U.S. cities such as Orlando, Boston, Baltimore and Atlanta.
- Diversification of issuing markets, reducing dependence on certain geographical areas.
- Competitiveness is enhanced, since the presence of several companies encourages price competition.
- Sustainable growth for the hotel, catering and tourism-related services sectors.
At the same time, the island’s residents and professionals benefit from an expanded network for regional and international travel.
Saint-Martin, the Caribbean air hub
Princess Juliana International Airport, already famous for its single runway along Maho beach, confirms its strategic position. The combined arrival of Contour Airlines, Southwest, JetBlue and Frontier testifies to Saint-Martin’s attractiveness to airlines.
These new routes are part of a dynamic in which demand for direct flights to Saint Martin continues to grow. They reinforce the island’s role as a privileged gateway to the Lesser Antilles and as a tourist hub in the region.
The opening of new routes and increased frequencies by Contour Airlines, Southwest, JetBlue and Frontier are a strong signal for Saint-Martin’s tourism and economic future. Direct flights to Saint Martin are becoming a strategic asset, offering travelers simplified access and consolidating the destination’s appeal.
From late 2025 and early 2026, passengers will have more options than ever to reach the island non-stop, reinforcing its status as a key Caribbean crossroads.
August 15, 2025 will go down as a milestone in the history of regional connectivity. Caribbean Airlines inaugurated its new direct service between Dominica and Puerto Rico, creating a strategic bridge between two complementary territories: one recognized as the Caribbean’s “nature island”, the other as an essential air hub for North American travellers.
This long-awaited launch meets growing demand from regional and international travellers, and confirms Caribbean Airlines’ role as a key player in Caribbean air transport.
A launch celebrated on both sides of the sea
Inaugural flights BW296 and BW297 set the tone for a new stage in Caribbean mobility. At Douglas-Charles airport in Dominica, the aircraft was greeted by a traditional water salute, a powerful symbol of the importance of this opening. On the other hand, in San Juan, a cultural ceremony highlighted the historical and human links that already unite the two territories.
For Garvin Medera, CEO of Caribbean Airlines, this new route is part of a wider strategy: “These schedule improvements are a direct response to market demand and feedback from our customers.” With this announcement, the company reaffirms its commitment to offering a more fluid and accessible air network in the Caribbean region.
Air services tailored to today's needs
Caribbean Airlines is now offering up to three weekly flights between San Juan and Dominica. Flight BW297 departs Puerto Rico at 4:00 pm, landing in Dominica at 5:50 pm, while return flight BW296 leaves Douglas-Charles at 10:25 am for San Juan at 12:15 pm.
With a flight time of around 1h50, the trip is quick and comfortable. Fares start from 363 US dollars round-trip, a price that further opens up the destination to a regional audience while attracting North American travelers.
In addition to this route, Caribbean Airlines is also strengthening its connections between Dominica and Trinidad, facilitating connections to New York and other international destinations via Port-of-Spain. The airline is thus positioning itself as a facilitator of multi-destination travel, particularly popular with tourists wishing to combine several islands in a single holiday.
Dominica, a preserved natural treasure
With this new connection, Caribbean Airlines is putting the spotlight on a little-known territory: Dominica. Situated between Guadeloupe and Martinique, this English-speaking island of around 66,000 inhabitants attracts visitors with its authenticity and commitment to the environment.
Nicknamed the “Nature Island”, Dominica is famous for its Boiling Lake, countless rivers, spectacular waterfalls and Morne Trois Pitons National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. Trafalgar Falls, Middleham Falls and Emerald Pool are must-sees for lovers of unspoilt scenery.
Visitors can hike the 185-kilometer Waitukubuli National Trail, which crosses the island from one end to the other, or meet the Kalinago community, custodians of an ancestral Caribbean culture. Add to this a pioneering environmental policy – Dominica has banned single-use plastics from 2019 – and the island emerges as a model of sustainable tourism.
Puerto Rico, the ideal gateway
Opposite this unspoiled jewel, Puerto Rico presents itself as a modern and practical hub. For American travelers, it requires no passport, making it a true gateway to the Lesser Antilles.
San Juan is known for its colorful historic center, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as for its urban and festive atmosphere. The island also offers natural treasures such as the El Yunque rainforest and unique beaches like Mosquito Bay in Vieques, world-famous for its bioluminescence.
For Chekira Lockhart-Hypolite, Dominica’s Acting Minister of Tourism, “this new service brings incredible convenience, especially for travelers from the United States. With less congestion than major hubs like Miami or New York, visitors reach Dominica faster and with less stress.”
Economic and tourism benefits
In addition to its practical benefits, this direct service provided by Caribbean Airlines represents a major economic lever. It encourages the development of multi-island tourism, combining the modernity of Puerto Rico with the ecological adventure of Dominica.
For Willianette Robles Cancel, Executive Director of the Puerto Rico Tourism Company, “the tourism industry is a pillar of the Caribbean economy. These alliances that increase air access are essential to encourage growth and offer varied experiences.”
The Dominican authorities are anticipating a significant increase in tourist arrivals, particularly from the United States. This increase should support the local economy while preserving the island’s authentic charm.
With this new route, Caribbean Airlines is not content to simply open an air route. It offers a new way to travel in the Caribbean, combining efficiency, comfort and cultural diversity.
Dominica gains in accessibility without sacrificing its authenticity, while Puerto Rico strengthens its role as a strategic hub. For travelers and economic players alike, this air route represents much more than just a journey: it is a link between preserved nature and modernity, between authenticity and connectivity.
The 13ᵉ Meeting of Civil Aviation Directors of North America, Central America and the Caribbean (ICAO NACC/DCA/13) brought together public decision-makers, civil authority officials and technical partners to set regional priorities for safety, interoperability and connectivity. The meeting was held at the Santo Domingo Sheraton, under the aegis of the NACC regional office of the International Civil Aviation Organization and the Dominican Institute of Civil Aviation (IDAC).
At the heart of the discussions, the Collectivité Territoriale de Martinique (CTM), through the Direction de la Sécurité de l’Aviation Civile Antilles-Guyane (DSAC-AG), presented two structuring projects: the First Air Conference in Martinique and the LAC eFTI4all pilot site. The stated aim is to strengthen long-haul and intra-regional links, optimize freight, accelerate the dematerialization of information flows and place the region on a path of innovation at the service of the Greater Caribbean, in line with ICAO NACC/DCA/13.
Assumed visibility in a strategic forum
The ICAO NACC/DCA/13 format is a major operational rendez-vous for civil authorities in the area, with agendas, technical sessions and planning workshops aimed at sharing feedback and common roadmaps. Held from August 4 to 7, 2025, it confirms the importance of this forum for member states and territories.
In this context, Martinique relies on the DSAC Antilles-Guyane – the competent authority for Martinique, Guadeloupe, French Guiana, Saint-Barthélemy and Saint-Martin – to carry out its priorities: safety, quality of service, fluidity of operations on the ground and in the air, coordination with port and logistics infrastructures, in line with the commitments reiterated at ICAO NACC/DCA/13.
Two key announcements
These two announcements are part of the roadmap discussed at ICAO NACC/DCA/13 and supported by the Territory’s Logistics Strategy Commission, chaired by Sandra Casanova at the instigation of Executive Council President Serge Letchimy.
1) First Airline Conference in Martinique
Conceived as a working meeting between companies, infrastructure managers, service operators and institutional players, the conference has three aims:
- ✅Strengthen connections (long-haul and intra-regional) to improve service, reduce dependence on a few hubs and secure territorial continuity;
- ✅Improving freight capacity, a decisive factor in the competitiveness of export industries and the supply of island markets;
- ✅Accelerate innovation (equipment and procedures), with a focus on energy efficiency and operational performance.
The conference is intended as a catalyst to position Martinique as a key player in the regional and transatlantic air network.
2) eFTI4all LAC pilot site
The second focus is digital: Martinique serves as a pilot site for eFTI4all, a European project implementing the eFTI regulation (EU 2020/1056) and aimed at dematerializing transport documents. In concrete terms, the aim is to make information exchanges (shipments, formalities, controls) between companies and authorities interoperable and legally reliable, from the first kilometer to the last. On the scale of the Europe-Caribbean corridors, the reduction in delays, errors and administrative costs represents a direct gain for both companies and control authorities.
Why is it so important for the Greater Caribbean?
The regional economy is based on a logistics chain in which air and sea complement each other. By standardizing data and making their circulation more reliable, the approach adopted by ICAO NACC/DCA/13 makes it possible to anticipate load disruptions, improve the predictability of operations and save days on certain sensitive flows (spare parts, high-value health products). For airlines and forwarders, the challenge is not just a technological one: it’s a question of competitiveness and resilience in the face of climatic hazards, peak demand and regulatory constraints.
On the passenger side, the conference announced in Martinique should help structure more regular and better-coordinated connections between the islands and the major continental airports. Service quality depends as much on runway and departure lounge capacity as it does on procedures and the quality of data transmitted upstream. All operators will be keeping a close eye on the link between strategic thinking and practical implementation (slots, maintenance, handling, security).
Governance and cooperation
Martinique’s approach is based on clear governance: the CTM sets the course, the Logistics Strategy Commission ensures coordination, and the DSAC-AG guarantees alignment with safety and compliance requirements. This political-operational-regulatory triptych, presented at ICAO NACC/DCA/13, is essential if we are to move from announcements to achievements.
Next steps
- 🔜 Operational timetable: publication of the detailed program for the First Air Conference in Martinique (format, speakers, expected deliverables) and articulation with the workstreams defined by ICAO NACC/DCA/13.
- 🔜 eFTI4all: consolidation of use cases in the LAC (Latin America & Caribbean) zone and provision of tools for companies (interfaces, exchange repositories, compliance guides).
- 🔜 Partnerships: mobilizing airlines, port operators, logisticians, research centers and administrations to test, evaluate and deploy joint solutions – with Martinique as a bridgehead.
Martinique’s active participation in ICAO NACC/DCA/13 is more than just an institutional presence: it formalizes a course where connectivity, freight and reliable data come together. The Première Conférence de l’aérien en Martinique aims to organize the ramp-up of regional links and capacity, while eFTI4all provides the digital infrastructure needed to make exchanges more fluid and secure. On a Caribbean scale, the challenge is clear: boost performance without compromising on safety or transparency of operations.
Air Caraïbes, French Bee and Volotea have just signed an unprecedented interline agreement enabling passengers of Spanish low-cost carrier Volotea to combine their short-haul flights with the long-haul routes of Air Caraïbes and French Bee. This alliance aims to considerably simplify bookings and connections, while expanding travel possibilities to the Caribbean, North America and the Indian Ocean without multiplying tickets or the risks associated with stopovers.
An unprecedented partnership in the European and overseas air markets
Air Caraïbes, French Bee and Volotea are opening a new chapter in the airline industry, by combining the low-cost business model with airlines specialized in long-haul flights to the French overseas territories. This cooperation expands Volotea’s network without direct investment in long-haul aircraft, while Air Caraïbes and French Bee strengthen their visibility in Europe, particularly in the face of well-established players.
This geographical alliance now covers connections between several European regional cities – including Lourdes, Rodez, Ancona, Genoa and Turin – and destinations such as Guadeloupe, Martinique, French Guiana, Réunion, Saint-Martin, Saint-Barthélemy, as well as the USA and Canada.
Simplified travel: one ticket, one reservation
At the heart of this partnership is the desire to make travel simpler and less stressful. Air Caraïbes, French Bee and Volotea now enable passengers to book a one-way ticket covering the whole journey, whether it’s a short-haul flight with Volotea or a long-haul one with Air Caraïbes or French Bee.
This integration considerably improves baggage management, with baggage transported directly to the final destination, eliminating the usual hassle of retrieving and depositing baggage during stopovers. The promise of “no more complexity is also based on optimized connections at Paris-Orly airport, the nerve center of these connections. This process makes journeys smoother and reduces the stress associated with delays or difficult connections between several airlines.
An optimized network for a better passenger experience
The coordination of schedules between Volotea and the French long-haul airlines guarantees improved connectivity, enabling passengers to connect the main European regional capitals with the French overseas territories without hindrance. The dense network of short and long flights offers a wide range of connections, coupled with improved logistics management and lower overall costs. Air Caraïbes, French Bee and Volotea are thus reinforcing the fluidity of their routes.
Economic benefits for travellers
Volotea’s low-cost model, combined with the strength of Air Caraïbes and French Bee, now makes destinations previously often reserved for more expensive direct flights accessible at competitive prices. This economic gain is accompanied by greater choice, with the possibility of reaching places like Santo Domingo, Miami, Reunion or Polynesia without the constraint of multiple bookings.
These savings are not purely financial: the reduction in waiting time, the peace of mind linked to integrated baggage management, and the ease of booking clearly enhance the customer experience. Air Caraïbes, French Bee and Volotea are thus helping to democratize access to these destinations.
Impact on the traditional airline industry and future prospects
This strategic alliance between Air Caraïbes, French Bee and Volotea could shake up the traditional hierarchy of airlines linking Europe to its overseas territories. The association of a low-cost player with long-haul airlines brings a new dynamic that could encourage other airlines to consider similar collaborations.
At a time when demand for flexible, simple solutions at competitive fares is growing, this partnership is positioned as an appropriate response to travelers’ expectations, while strengthening the attractiveness of the French Overseas Territories and promoting their links with Europe.
A stronger bridge between Europe and the French overseas territories
In short, the interline agreement signed between Air Caraïbes, French Bee and Volotea offers a turning point for travelers wishing to connect Europe with tropical and overseas destinations. Thanks to simplified routes, more affordable fares and better connection management, this agreement paves the way for a more connected, fluid and competitive air network.
Passengers benefit from a more integrated, less restrictive experience, while airlines strengthen their presence in a fast-changing market. This new balance between low-cost and long-haul could well redraw the map of air transport between Europe and the French overseas territories.
The “Rush été 2025” system is now fully deployed at Guadeloupe Maryse Condé airport, in response to an unprecedented number of passengers at this time of year. From the very first days of July, high passenger numbers at Guadeloupe Maryse Condé airport confirm the trend: the 2025 summer season will be marked by a high number of passengers.
The month of June already recorded 144,459 passengers, a significant increase over the same period in 2024. According to airport management, this increase is part of a wider dynamic, with a 3.8% growth in traffic over the first six months of the year. Faced with this situation, SAGPC SA has launched the Rush summer 2025 plan to maintain fluidity of operations and quality of service.
A targeted operational plan
“Rush été 2025” is based on a reinforced organization. The aim is to avoid the inconveniences often associated with peaks in traffic, while ensuring the smooth running of flights. The plan, devised in advance, mobilizes all the hub’s operational teams, from ground services to operations staff. Particular attention is paid to coordination between airlines, managers and subcontractors.
Adapting flights to key destinations
To meet demand, Air France, Corsair and Air Caraïbes have adjusted their schedules. Additional rotations to France are being introduced, with a peak expected on August 21, when eight flights to Paris are scheduled. “Rush été 2025” also includes the return of charter flights to Punta Cana, as well as a regular Sunday flight to Miami. These reinforcements reflect the region’s attractiveness, but require rigorous logistics.
Reinforced human resources
The success of “Rush été 2025 ” also relies on the deployment of additional human resources. The “pink polos”, young students identifiable by their uniforms, have been recruited to guide passengers through the check-in and boarding areas. Their mission: to reduce the anxiety associated with travelling during busy periods, by simplifying the passenger’s journey. The number of baggage handling and cleaning staff has also been increased.
Easy traffic flow and access
As part of “Rush été 2025”, improvements have been made to vehicle circulation and terminal access. The P1 parking lot now benefits from a more flexible configuration, thanks to mobile barriers that allow for smoother exits. These adjustments are designed to limit the bottlenecks seen in previous years, particularly at long-haul flight arrival times.
New installations in progress
Two elevators accessible directly from the forecourt are due to go into service by the end of July. This installation is designed to facilitate travel for families with children and people with reduced mobility. “Rush été 2025” also sees the arrival of new baggage carts, designed to improve overall passenger comfort during peak periods.
Practical advice for worry-free travel
In order to limit the impact of heavy traffic, management is advising passengers to follow a few simple instructions. As part of “Rush été 2025”, passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least four hours before departure for international flights. Check the validity of your travel documents, clearly label your baggage and find out in advance about check-in times. Reception staff are on hand as passengers enter the airport to guide them to the various check-in points.
A summer under tension, but under control
Thanks to “Rush été 2025”, Guadeloupe Maryse Condé airport intends to maintain a constant quality of service despite the pressure exerted by increased traffic. By focusing on anticipation, human resources and technical adjustments, SAGPC SA aims to guarantee a smooth airport passage for all passengers. The success of this strategy hinges on the coordinated mobilization of all the hub’s players, in a context where logistical control remains essential.
