Under the guidance of Captain Karen Mundell, an Air Canada flight touched down at Grantley Adams International Airport (GAIA) on a balmy Saturday afternoon, marking the airline’s 74th year of service to Barbados.
On December 3, 1949, Air Canada became the first North American airline with scheduled service to Barbados.
Lilian Chatterjee, the Canadian High Commissioner to Barbados, underscored the airline’s profound impact on fostering connections among people.
Standing alongside Shelly Williams, Chairman of Barbados Tourism Marketing Inc., and other dignitaries, Chatterjee extended a warm welcome to arriving travellers from Toronto Pearson International Airport.
As the vibrant sounds of Barbadian soca artistes reverberated through the GAIA arrival gate, 272 passengers and 10 crew members were treated to an immersion into the island’s rich culture — a delightful blend of music, dance, and heartfelt tokens of appreciation from the BTMI.
Reflecting on the joyous occasion, Chatterjee expressed her anticipation for the future, stating, “The passengers and the High Commission are thrilled, and I can only look forward to 75 with the link between Barbados and Canada.”
Meanwhile, Williams, echoing the sentiments of the Canadian High Commissioner, pointed to the robust relationship between the two nations, particularly within the aviation sector.
Addressing the media, Williams said, “We continue to have a wonderful relationship with Canada and with this airline.”
Williams shared that in the past summer alone, the airline designated Barbados as the Eastern Caribbean hub.
This strategic decision, Williams said, involved suspending services in select Eastern Caribbean destinations and rerouting them through Barbados, showcasing the airline’s steadfast dedication to the island.
Looking ahead with excitement, Williams pledged an even grander celebration in 2024 for the 75th anniversary of the enduring aviation partnership between Barbados and Air Canada.
(RT)
