JetBlue Airways has announced additional flights to Aruba. The low-cost airline will offer a second flight every Saturday from New York’s JFK International Airport to Aruba commencing December 2 2006. A second daily flight will also be laid on for the Christmas holidays, December 21 2006 to January 7 2007.
New baggage regulations are now in place for passengers departing from any airport in the EU.
Hand Baggage – Passengers are allowed 1 item of hand baggage measuring a maximum of 56 cm x 45 cm x 25 cm. Large musical instruments will be allowed as a second item of hand luggage.
Liquids – Passengers can only carry small quantities (maximum 100 ml per container) of liquids, gels and aerosols in their hand baggage. These containers must be carried in a resealable, clear plastic bag (1 per passenger) and be presented separately at security control. Exceptions will be made for baby formula and medication required during flights.
UK tour operator First Choice has announced new charter flights from Manchester. The direct flights will operate on Tuesdays from May 8 2007 to October 23 2007, departing at 10:15 am with a flying time of nine hours and 45 minutes.
The US government has delayed the passport requirements of the Western Hemisphere Travel Initiative until January 1 2008 for land crossings at the Mexican and Canadian borders and for cruise passengers coming to the US from the Caribbean, Mexico, Canada or Bermuda. They amendment does not apply to those travelling by air, who are still required to have a passport from January 8 2007. Vincent Vanderpool-Wallace, Secretary General of the Caribbean Tourism Organization (CTO) believes the amendment doesn’t go far enough and has equated it to “a category 6 hurricane” in the Caribbean region.
Cunard’s new luxury cruise ship, the Queen Victoria, will call at Aruba as part of her 105-day inaugural world cruise. The ship will visit Aruba on January 19 2008 after departing Fort Lauderdale.