InterCaribbean Airways Ogle operations to strengthen Guyana’s regional connection

– new Barbados-Guyana route marks major boost for tourism, trade,
and regional mobility

InterCaribbean Airways officially commenced operations at the Eugene F Correia International Airport on Thursday, emphasising Guyana’s expanding aviation links and deepening its regional integration.
The inaugural flight from Barbados was welcomed by Minister of Tourism, Industry and Commerce Susan Rodrigues, alongside Minister within the Ministry of Public Works Deodat Indar, Guyana Civil Aviation Authority (GCAA) Director-General Lt Col (Ret’d) Egbert Field, and Private Sector Commission Chairman Capt Gerry Gouveia Jr.
The event – held against the backdrop of active construction works at the Ogle airport – was described by officials as symbolic of Guyana’s broader national transformation.
In her feature remarks, Minister Rodrigues said the airline’s expansion into Ogle aligns squarely with the Government’s agenda to improve airlift, expand tourism pathways, and support the country’s rapid economic growth.
She noted that the inaugural flight represents a concrete step in expanding Guyana’s regional footprint.
“Today marks a significant milestone as we welcome the inaugural InterCaribbean Airways flight from Barbados to this hub. This moment reflects the steady progress we continue to make in expanding Guyana’s regional presence and strengthening the links that support our tourism sector and broader economy. Today carries special meaning for Guyana.”
“The arrival of this aircraft proudly carrying the Guyana flag and the ‘Spirit of Guyana’ tagline represents the confidence in our country and the direction in which we continue to move. It also strengthens our connection with the region. Flights like these enable more people to travel to our beautiful country for business, leisure, or to spend time with their families. They also create opportunities for tourism, trade, and investment. The Government of Guyana remains fully committed to strengthening regional and international connectivity. Investments in airport development, new routes, and aviation partnerships continue to support this goal,” the Minister said.
Minister Rodrigues announced that tourism performance continues to show historic growth. The Caribbean is now Guyana’s second-largest visitor source market, a trend she said underscores the need for improved airlift, such as InterCaribbean’s new service.
She noted that the Caribbean Tourism Organization has recognised Guyana for having the highest percentage increase in visitor arrivals from January to July this year.
Rodrigues emphasised the importance of the Guyana–Barbados relationship, calling Barbados a “reliable gateway” for regional and international travel.
“The Caribbean Tourism Organization has also recognised our growth. Their recent report highlighted that Guyana recorded the highest percentage increase in visitor arrivals in the region for the period from January to July of this year. This recognition reinforces the positive work taking place across the tourism sector and the growing interest in Destination Guyana. Based on current trends, Guyana is expected to close December 2025 with at least a 20 per cent overall increase in arrivals, which would mark the highest annual total in our entire tourism history. The connection between Guyana and Barbados is a significant one. Our two countries continue to build a strong partnership in tourism, trade, and cultural exchange. Barbados has long served as a reliable gateway for regional and international travel, and this service strengthens that role,” she added.