Jamaica: Air traffic controllers' strike results in cancellation of most flights to and from country May 12

Airlines cancel most flights to and from Jamaica May 12 due to air traffic controllers' strike; overflights of country reportedly continue.

Event

Jamaican air traffic controllers have launched a strike May 12 that has forced airlines to cancel nearly all flights to and from the country. The strike has heavily disrupted operations scheduled through May 12 at the country's two main airports, Kingston's Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) and Montego Bay's Sangster International Airport (MBJ).

The air traffic controllers do not appear to have announced the strike in advance; several inbound flights to Jamaica had to divert to other countries after the labor action began. The controllers have not formally stated when the strike will end. The Jamaican government is holding meetings in an attempt to end the work stoppage; unconfirmed reports indicate that the controllers plan to continue the strike until the morning of May 13. The strike is reportedly linked to disputes over salaries and allegedly faulty radar equipment.

Jamaican airspace is not completely closed, as overflights of the country are reportedly continuing. Limited flights may operate to and from Jamaican airports while the strike continues, but full-scale operations are unlikely to resume until the strike ends.

Travelers will likely encounter long lines at check-in and customer service desks through at least May 13.

Advice

Confirm all flights. Do not check out of accommodations until onward transportation is confirmed. If necessary, book alternate flights as soon as possible, as seats are likely to sell out quickly. Allow extra time to transit through Jamaican airports through at least May 13.