Tobago Correspondent
Caribbean Airlines (CAL) has added 1,000 more seats on the domestic airbridge as it ramps up capacity for this weekend’s Tobago Carnival.
The announcement came yesterday, less than 24 hours after Tourism Secretary Zorisha Hackett appealed to the local airline for more flights to accommodate last-minute revellers.
CAL said the flights will become available today, as it affirmed its commitment to supporting Tobago’s tourism sector.
Speaking to the media on Sunday after welcoming passengers from the inaugural Toronto to Tobago flight, Hackett said the new ANR Robinson International Airport will be busy this entire week as thousands arrive for the October 30-November 1 festival.
However, she believes the event — expected to attract 60,000 visitors — could be even more successful if additional transport becomes available.
“This week we want some more flights on the ground, to get the spontaneous ‘Carnival babies’ over. We have a lot of persons; they get the vibe and suddenly want to come over,” she said.
Hackett said two jets per day would be required to facilitate the heavy traffic. She said the logistics must be sorted out to ensure visitors can return home when the festival is over.
“That is always the challenge. That has to be worked out well to ensure people enjoy themselves and can safely get back home to get to work next week.”
The additional flights were welcomed by Hackett, who posted to social media, “Ask and it shall be given unto you.”
Meanwhile, the Port Authority confirmed it is also at full capacity with the Buccoo Reef ferry back in operation, ensuring the full fleet of passenger vessels is available for the peak period.
