A new scheduled charter service between Georgetown and Lethem is offering fares more than 10 per cent below the market rate, as BK International partners with JAGS Aviation to make hinterland travel more affordable.
The initiative responds to President Dr Irfaan Ali’s continued call for airlines to lower airfares for Guyanese travelling to and from the hinterland.
JAGS Aviation Reservations Manager Natasha Smith told the Department of Public Information (DPI) on Wednesday that the reduced fares are expected to significantly benefit residents of hinterland communities.
“It not only opens up cheaper travel options for persons that live in Lethem to travel to Georgetown and back,” Smith said, adding that the service will ease access to medical care and supplies for the public.
The company is reviewing its pricing structure with a view to reducing fares further, she said.
Smith said there are plans to eventually add stops in other communities in Regions Eight and Nine, while exploring international connections to Suriname, Brazil and Venezuela.
“We’re even offering cargo fares less than the market as well so that they can bring more items to and from Lethem and Georgetown. And it opens up the tourism market as well,” she said.
The added connectivity is expected to support businesses and the growing tourism sector in Region Nine by facilitating the movement of people and boosting economic activity. (DPI)
