The Canadian airline, WestJet, has been granted approval to operate two repatriation flights between Canada and Guyana, as there is a significant demand for flights by citizens of both countries.
This repatriation flight was coordinated during discussions concerning the reopening of the airports.
Minister of Public Works Juan Edghill on Tuesday, while on a visit to the Cheddi Jagan International Airport, said that he is currently working with his technical advisors to see how best they can move passengers between Guyana and Canada in a short period of time.
He explained that with Caribbean Airlines not operating, the route is currently unserved and many persons, who travel between the two countries are unable to fly.
A WestJet flight was scheduled to arrive yesterday and depart today. Edghill informed that the outgoing flight is already booked to capacity.
Asked if WestJet and the government have been in talks with the airline to fill the gaps in the route, Edghill responded in the negative but noted that it is something the government will seek to pursue.
Meanwhile Director General Lt. Col. (Ret’d) Egbert Field of the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority said that there have been no concrete talks with the airline. He noted that his agency is ready to entertain an application from WestJet should they apply to serve the route.
The country’s international airports are now open for commercial flights after a seven-month hiatus due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
WestJet has operated several repatriation flights between Guyana and Canada.
