Bridgetown, Barbados – Air Canada marked a significant milestone on Tuesday, December 3rd, as Flight AC966 from Toronto landed at the Grantley Adams International Airport. This historic arrival commemorated 75 years of continuous service between Canada and Barbados, solidifying the airline’s position as a key player in the Caribbean tourism industry.
The wide-body Boeing 787-8 Dreamliner, piloted by Captains Mark Tibbetts and Darren Little, carried 234 passengers and eight crew members. The aircraft was warmly welcomed by officials from the Ministry of Tourism and International Transport, the Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., the Grantley Adams International Airport, and the Barbados Hotel and Tourism Association.
Minister of Tourism and International Transport, Ian Gooding-Edghill, highlighted the enduring partnership between Air Canada and Barbados. He noted that Trans-Canada Air Lines, the airline’s predecessor, was the first North American carrier to offer scheduled flights to the island in 1949.
“Barbados has the distinction of being Air Canada’s longest-serving flight destination in the entire Caribbean and enjoys the highest repeat visitor rate within the region,” Minister Gooding-Edghill stated. He emphasized the airline’s role in supporting Barbados’ economic development, especially during challenging times such as the COVID-19 pandemic.
Air Canada’s Manager, Airport Operations, Jacqueline Parris, expressed gratitude for the strong partnership with Barbados. She highlighted the mutual benefits of the relationship, including increased economic growth for the island and a loyal customer base for the airline. Parris also expressed optimism for the future, anticipating expanded flight routes and collaborations on sustainable tourism initiatives.