Avelo Airlines Exits Bradley, Leaving Hartford’s West Indian Community Struggling
Big changes are coming to Bradley International Airport, and it’s hitting the West Indian community in Greater Hartford especially hard. Avelo Airlines has announced that it’s pulling all flights from Bradley, including the popular nonstop route to Montego Bay, Jamaica. For many in the community, this flight wasn’t just a vacation option—it was a lifeline.
Sherwane Hudson from Windsor described the nonstop flight as “like a godsend.” Traveling to Jamaica multiple times a year, Hudson relied on the convenience of the direct flight. “We go back home a lot, so I know that it was a big factor, especially a direct flight to Montego Bay,” he said. But soon, that connection will be gone. The airline confirmed it will stop operations at Bradley entirely by January 25, 2026.
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Andrew Lawrence, president of the Caribbean Trade Council, voiced what many are feeling: disappointment. He emphasized that the Montego Bay flight was a crucial link for Hartford’s West Indian community, serving tens of thousands of people, particularly retirees who split their time between Jamaica and the U.S. “They live in Jamaica, but they plan all of their medical visits back here,” Lawrence explained. Losing the flight disrupts not just travel plans but important aspects of daily life for many families.
Avelo explained that the decision was based on business realities, claiming revenues from Bradley weren’t enough to cover costs. Any other interpretation, they said, is “unfortunate, false, and uninformed.” However, the Connecticut Airport Authority (CAA) says it offered multiple incentives—including waived fuel taxes and terminal rent—to keep Avelo at Bradley. The airline reportedly requested even longer incentives, which were denied. Despite strong passenger numbers, with flights reaching up to 95% capacity over the summer, Avelo has decided to leave.
The announcement has left local travelers frustrated. Tisa Rabun from Glastonbury expressed her disappointment, noting that the route was important not only for those visiting family but also for anyone looking to explore Jamaica on vacation. With the departure of Avelo, passengers will now face the inconvenience of connecting through New York or Boston.
CAA officials are already in talks with other carriers to restore nonstop service to Jamaica, hoping to fill the gap left by Avelo. Meanwhile, the airline assures customers with future bookings that refunds will be issued for any canceled flights. Despite the setback, Lawrence remains hopeful. “We’ll make it through, and I’m confident that there’s going to be another carrier that will take up this initiative,” he said.
For Hartford’s West Indian community, Avelo’s exit marks the end of a convenient and valued travel option—but the search for a new carrier could bring the route back in the near future. Until then, families and travelers will have to adjust and find alternative ways to stay connected with home.
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