Kingston.
The Government of Jamaica is threatening to withdraw the Air Jamaica brand from the Trinidad-based Caribbean Airlines (CAL) following widespread reports that the carrier would be reducing the number of daily flight to Jamaica.
Last week CAL Communications Manager Clint Williams confirmed to the media that the airline would be cutting back on the number of flights to Jamaica, effective April 16.
Transport Minister Dr. Omar Davis said the decision by the cash-strapped airline would contradict the agreement signed when CAL acquired Air Jamaica two years ago.
Davies said the only tangible weapon the government has relates to the use of the Air Jamaica brand.
He said there have also been challenges in discussing changes at CAL with the Kamla Persad Bissessar government and crucial information has not been forthcoming from that end.
In 2010, Port of Spain and Kingston agreed to a deal that allowed the Jamaica Government to own 16 per cent of CAL as part of the conditions for it taking over the lucrative routes of Air Jamaica.
The deal also allows for Trinidad and Tobago agreeing to a US$300 million transition plan for CAL to acquire and operate six Air Jamaica aircraft and eight of its routes.
