American Airlines/American Eagle Announces Termination of San Juan-Bonaire Flights Effective May 1, 2009

In a continuing effort to streamline operations and contain costs, American Airlines/American Eagle announced that, effective May 1, 2009, the airline will discontinue service between its San Juan hub and Bonaire.

Passengers holding reservations for American Eagle flights between San Juan and Bonaire for travel after April 30, 2009 are advised to contact American Airlines or their travel provider as soon as possible to make alternate arrangements.

“We want to thank American Airlines/American Eagle for being an excellent tourism partner throughout its long history with Bonaire,” said Ramonsito Booi, Senator, who along with Burney El Hage, were instrumental in securing the service with the carrier eight years ago. “We certainly understand the need to reevaluate operations, particularly during these difficult financial times, and wish them much success in their endeavors.” Burney El Hage, Commissioner of Tourism added, “We hope we have the opportunity to work with American Airlines/American Eagle in the future. Fortunately, despite the loss of service, we have a variety of non-stop flights from other US legacy carriers and excellent intra-Caribbean air options for those who want to visit Bonaire.”

With the cessation of American Eagle service, Bonaire will be served non-stop by Continental Airlines from Newark and Houston, and by Delta from New York (JFK) and Atlanta, with year-round flights operating on Saturdays.* Flights between Bonaire, Aruba and Curacao are available on Dutch Antilles Express (DAE). Divi Divi Air flies between Bonaire and Curacao. Tiara Air flies between Aruba, Curacao and Bonaire. Insel Air flies from Miami to Bonaire via Curacao four times weekly and also connects to Bonaire from Aruba via Curacao.