As a follow-up to the August 10, 2005 meeting between the Government of Anguilla and officials from American Eagle, the airline has announced a number of enhancements to the service offered to both visitors and residents, using its San Juan hub.

L-R: Hon. Victor Banks, Marcel Fahie, Hon. Donna Banks. Amelia Vanterpool Kubisch, Mildred Hodge and Pedro Fabregas

In its presentation to American Eagle, the Government of Anguilla had outlined its 2004 re-lauch efforts in all its markets and the successful conversion of those efforts into increased arrivals not only in 2004 but continuing throughout 2005. Government noted, however, that for there to be sustained growth in 2006 and beyond a number of steps had to be taken including increased marketplace presence, increased marketing budget, enhancement of the destination product and improved access into Anguilla. In terms of improved access the Government of Anguilla shared with American Eagle’s officials that this would require greater frequency of airline service out of hub serving Anguilla, seamless and convenient transfers and competitive airfares.

American Eagle has now responded to the Government of Anguilla with a number of enhancement terms of scheduling and fares. As of September 6, 2005, persons residing on Anguilla can travel between Anguilla and Puerto Rico for a round trip fare (including taxes) of US$207.25. This fare has no purchase restrictions and can be issued by the local American Eagle ticket office. This fare now offers Anguillians greater convenience of travel and at the same time allows residents to enjoy competitive rates out of Anguilla into San Juan and by extension into mainland USA and beyond.

Pedro Fabregas, Director of Marketing and Planning, also advised the Government of Anguilla that commencing December 15, 2005 American Eagle will introduce a second flight between San Juan and Anguilla, three times per week (Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Saturdays). Flight 5120 will leave San Juan at 1:05 p.m. and arrive in Anguilla at 2:20 p.m. and then depart Anguilla at 2:50 p.m. arriving in San Juan at 4:05 p.m. The second American Eagle flight will leave San Juan at 8:40 p.m. and arrive in Anguilla at 9:45 p.m. and depart Anguilla the following morning at 8:00 o’clock arriving in San Juan at 9:10.

This flight will be available in the American Airlines reservation system beginning Sunday, September 18.

The new schedule announced by American Eagle and which commences on December 15, 2005 will go a long way in enabling the Anguilla Tourist Board to meet its visitor arrival targets for 2005 as it enables the Board to penetrate secondary and opportunity markets within the US as well as expand existing markets in the US, Puerto Rico and internationally. With two flights per day, Anguillians will have the opportunity and convenience of traveling to Puerto Rico for the day, returning the same evening if necessary.

The Government of Anguilla and American Eagle are working closely to ensure that the improved service will increase tourist travel into the island out of, and via, San Juan as well as travel by Anguillians into, and via, San Juan. The Ministry of Tourism and the Anguilla Tourist Board are asking providers for accommodation facilities to encourage their guests to utilise the enhanced American Eagle schedule. Anguillian residents are also encouraged to take advantage of the direct flights and low fares which offer convenience in travel between Anguilla and Puerto Rico.
- Press Release

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