Les compagnies aériennes, les lignes de croisière et les marques de voyage s’unissent pour soutenir la Jamaïque et les Caraïbes suite à l’ouragan Melissa

When Hurricane Melissa struck Jamaica with historic intensity, several major tourism players immediately mobilized their resources. American Airlines was the first airline to resume flights between Miami and Kingston, ensuring a crucial link for residents and aid. Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, and United Airlines followed suit, temporarily waiving change fees and capping their fares to avoid any abusive speculation. Cruise lines like Royal Caribbean and MSC Cruises also coordinated relief initiatives, bringing supplies and funding on-site. In this article, you will discover the concrete commitment of airlines, cruise companies, and local stakeholders in the reconstruction.

• American Airlines resumed strategic flights to the Caribbean, while encouraging its customers to support relief efforts through donations to the Red Cross.
• Royal Caribbean and Carnival Corporation provide targeted financial support and increase fundraising efforts to help affected communities.
• Sandals Resorts ensured the total safety of its guests and employees while offering increased flexibility for affected bookings.
• Local tourism authorities established task forces dedicated to the rehabilitation of the sector and plan a phased reopening before the end of the year.
• Other brands such as Club Med, Corsair, Air Caraïbes, Air France, TUI, Ponant, and Transat are also participating in the efforts, reinforcing the industry’s solidarity.

Air support and accompanying measures in response to Melissa

Airlines play a central role in the recovery. American Airlines, in particular, was quick to restore its flights to Kingston and other affected areas. Meanwhile, Delta, Southwest, and United waived their change fees for customers impacted by the disruptions. This flexibility makes it easier for travelers to adapt without penalties, a sign of an engaged sector. French airlines like Air France, Corsair, and Air Caraïbes have also adjusted their operations, ensuring service to major Caribbean destinations.

• Gradual resumption of flights to Kingston, Holguin, and Providenciales.
• Waiver of change fees until early November 2025.
• Capped fares to avoid increased costs after the disaster.
• Encouragement of donations through loyalty programs like American Airlines’ AAdvantage.

Concrete actions by major cruise lines in the region

The cruise giants are not sitting on the sidelines. Royal Caribbean, through its president Michael Bayley, is organizing the urgent shipment of food and supplies. Carnival Corporation is collaborating with the Arison Foundation and the Miami HEAT team to inject one million dollars for the victims. Holland America maintains its series of charitable cruises “On Deck for a Cause” to fund a dedicated aid fund. These initiatives highlight their commitment to the region and their determination to support the affected populations.

• Coordination of aid shipments by Royal Caribbean.
• One million dollar donation by Carnival Corporation and the Arison Foundation.
• Mobilization around fundraising events by Holland America Line.
• Mobilization of local crews: more than 1,200 Jamaican employees involved.

Hotels, resorts, and local initiatives for sustainable recovery

Hotel complexes like Sandals Resorts have already secured all their guests and employees in Jamaica before trying to assess the damage. The group promises great flexibility for travelers affected by the storm. Couples Resorts regularly shares updates on the status of their properties, reassuring travelers. Furthermore, Jamaican Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett has launched working groups to coordinate the sector’s reconstruction with a targeted reopening set for December 2025.

• Ensuring the safety of teams and guests by Sandals Resorts.
• Increased flexibility on bookings and customer assistance for disruptions.
• Dedicated Task Forces for the preparation of the tourism restart.
• Calls for donations via the Sandals Foundation to multiply relief initiatives.

How to participate or adapt as a traveler in 2025

For anyone planning to visit the region, it is crucial to stay informed about the latest developments and flexible options offered by airlines and travel agencies. Whether you are a customer of Air France, Ponant, TUI, or Transat, these brands facilitate date changes without fees. Also, be sure to follow local safety recommendations on specialized websites to prepare your stay with peace of mind.

1. Regularly check updated travel advisories for the Caribbean and Jamaica.
2. Choose offers with flexible cancellation policies provided by Air Caraïbes or Corsair.
3. Participate in support programs by making a donation through the companies’ or associated foundations’ platforms.
4. Prepare your itinerary by including visits to areas that have begun their reconstruction.
5. Stay informed about official updates and adjust your trip according to local announcements.

The Caribbean tourism sector is striving to recover quickly from Hurricane Melissa. Thanks to the synergy of airlines like American Airlines, cruise operators such as Royal Caribbean, and hospitality players, Jamaica and the neighboring islands benefit from strong and coordinated support. If you are planning a trip, prioritize flexible offers and participate in the reconstruction for a solidarity-based tourism experience. To learn more, discover the aid measures and travel options in our complete dossier.