Guyana’s aviation sector reached a new milestone as KLM Royal Dutch Airlines commenced non-stop service between Georgetown and Amsterdam this week. The inaugural KLM flight landed at Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) to a celebratory welcome, opening Guyana’s first direct connection to Europe in decades. The twice-weekly flights, operating via St. Maarten on Wednesdays and Saturdays, are expected to significantly boost travel and trade links.
At a launch ceremony, Public Works Minister Juan Edghill hailed the development as “a permanent signal of how far we’ve come.” Since 2020, Guyana has attracted nine new international carriers, he noted, underscoring rapid expansion in the aviation industry. President Irfaan Ali, also in attendance, lauded KLM as a “partner” in Guyana’s progress, emphasizing that the airline’s presence goes beyond moving people to creating new economic opportunities. The government expects the direct European route to spur tourism and investment, aligning with its broader strategy to establish Guyana as a regional transportation hub.
Aviation officials point out that CJIA has undergone upgrades to accommodate the influx of international carriers. The KLM launch follows other recent entrants and comes ahead of additional airlines slated to begin service later this year. With KLM now bridging Guyana to Europe, authorities anticipate increased visitor arrivals and smoother travel for Guyanese diaspora communities. The new route reflects growing global confidence in Guyana’s market as the country’s economy and international profile soar on the back of its oil-driven growth.
Region: Demerara-Mahaica (Region 4)
Sources: stabroeknews.comstabroeknews.com
