Gaining altitude: Jamaica's national carrier has risen above debt and competition to become the Island's carrier of choice. (Cover Story: Airlines).(Air Jamaica)(Company Profile)

Travel Agent, November, 2002 by Shannon, Darren

Air Jamaica is staking its claim as the up-and-coming David in an airline market filled with Goliaths. Starting as a bit player in the leisure haven of the Caribbean, the Kingston-headquartered airline has overcome debt, privatization, massive fleet renewal and competition from the U.S. heavyweights to emerge as the leading carrier to Jamaica.

"Overall, Air Jamaica has an excellent service, both on the ground and on the plane. It is a legitimate airline," says Marie Mentone, COO of Sunburst Holidays. "That's what makes it a good airline."

Critics say that this is not enough, however, and that profits alone prove the viability of a business, a goal that Air Jamaica has never been able to achieve. But in an industry where more years show red than...