United Airlines inaugurates flights to Guyana

The Guyana government has welcomed the inaugural non-stop service by United Airlines, saying it will serve as a catalyst for further connectivity to the global tourism marketplace.

“This is a significant development for Guyana’s tourism industry. It underscores the increasing interest in travel between Guyana and the United States, a key source market for us. This new service will not only provide our citizens with greater travel options, but also serve as a major catalyst for further enhancing Guyana’s connectivity to the global tourism marketplace,” said Tourism, Industry and Commerce Minister Oneidge Walrond at the ceremony welcoming the United Airlines flight from Houston to Georgetown on Monday night.

“This direct flight will make it easier and more convenient for travellers from the United States to experience Guyana’s unique beauty and diverse offerings. We expect this to lead to a significant increase in visitor arrivals, which will have a positive ripple effect throughout our economy, creating jobs, supporting local businesses, and contributing to the overall growth and development of the tourism sector,” she said.

United Airlines will operate four flights a week to Guyana from Houston.

“We are excited to connect Houston, as well as the broader United network, with one of the fastest-growing economies in the world,” said the airline’s Senior Vice-President of Global Network Planning and Alliances, Patrick Quayle.

“This new route will offer our customers convenient access to the natural beauty and rich cultural heritage of Guyana,” he added.

United Airlines offers service to 52 unique destinations in the Caribbean and Latin American region – “more than all other carriers combined,” Quayle said.

Public Works Minister Bishop Juan Edghill regards the service as a tangible symbol of the government’s vision for expanded air travel options.

“This is a concrete example of our government’s vision for increased airlift and positioning Guyana as a significant hub for the Caribbean and beyond. It also serves as a powerful testament to the ongoing infrastructural development taking place within the country, which will further fuel interest and investment in Guyana’s immense potential,” said Edghill.

“This venture also demonstrates that the international community has confidence in our nation’s growth and potential. This new connection will not only facilitate travel and trade, but also catalyse further economic development and investment in Guyana. We are committed to fostering a thriving aviation sector that connects Guyana to the world and propels us towards a brighter future,” he added.

United States Ambassador to Guyana Nicole Theriot underscored the strengthening of the US-Guyana relationship as commercial partners.

“United Airlines’ new flight to Guyana is more than just a flight; it represents yet another significant milestone in our bilateral relationship. It’s a clear and exciting message that our commercial linkages are deepening, as we witness the growing number of US companies coming to do business in Guyana,” said the ambassador.

“Moreover, this new route will unlock incredible tourism opportunities by inviting even more travellers to experience the many offerings of both of our countries. Simply put, it’s a win-win for our economies, our cultures, and our close people-to-people ties,” the diplomat said.

CMC