Air Jamaica to cut routes

The national carrier Air Jamaica has announced that it will be cutting several of its routes next month in an effort to cut cost.



The routes include Atlanta, Miami, Los Angles, Barbados, Grenada and Grand Cayman.



The routes are to be cut on February 26.



Air Jamaica said the cuts would result in the closure of the affected stations and reduction in the work force.



The move is part of the new business plan for 2009, which has already been approved by cabinet.



The airline said the business plan is in response to the current global economic downturn as it seeks to position the company on a path towards financial stability.



It said it would also be improving aircraft utilization by more than 25 per cent and executing an efficiency plan that will improve productivity.



This is expected to bring the company’s unit cost in line with the international market.



The cuts will see the airline’s fleet be reduced to nine aircraft.



Air Jamaica said it would also be restructuring existing leases.



Meanwhile the airline said talks are continuing to meet the March 31 divestment deadline.