American Airlines Teams Up with Jamaica to Revitalize St. James High School Sports Fields
This week, the Jamaica Tourist Board warmly welcomed American Airlines to Montego Bay, marking a significant step in restoring two vital sports fields at St. James High School. This initiative, in collaboration with nonprofit Glasswing International, aims to enhance the educational experience for the school’s 1,785 students and 118 teachers.
A Community Effort
More than 40 dedicated American Airlines team members rolled up their sleeves to work on the restoration project. Their hands-on involvement is not just about fixing up the fields; it’s about boosting morale and creating a vibrant environment for learning and growth. “This collaboration exemplifies the power of partnership in uplifting our communities,” said Jamaica’s Minister of Tourism, Hon. Edmund Bartlett. “By investing in our youth and educational spaces, we nurture the next generation of Jamaican leaders and athletes.”
Commitment to Jamaica
American Airlines has a long-standing relationship with Jamaica, having proudly served the island for nearly 50 years. José A. Freig, Vice President of International and Inflight Dining Operations, emphasized this commitment: “Through our continued partnership with Glasswing International, we hope to make a positive and lasting impact, giving back to a community that is so important in our Caribbean network.”
The revitalized sports fields are expected to do more than just look good. They aim to improve student engagement, reduce dropout rates, and enhance overall school attendance. This is particularly crucial for student-athletes, who will benefit from a renewed sense of school spirit and pride.
Transformative Partnerships
Chris Martínez, Regional Projects Director at Glasswing International, shared the organization’s vision: “At Glasswing, we believe in the transformative power of community partnerships. This project in Jamaica is a meaningful opportunity to strengthen educational and wellness spaces, while working hand in hand with volunteers and communities committed to creating change.”
Expanding Connections
American Airlines is not just focused on community service; they’re also expanding their operations in Jamaica. This summer, the airline is operating 15 peak daily flights from three destinations—Kingston, Montego Bay, and Ocho Rios—with plans to increase to 20 peak daily flights in the winter. “We’re proud to serve as the largest U.S. airline in Jamaica, offering up to 93 weekly flights this summer,” said José María Giraldo, Managing Director of Operations for Mexico, the Caribbean, Canada, and Central America.
Economic Impact
The increase in airlift has had a significant impact on Jamaica’s economy. In 2024, the island welcomed 4.3 million visitors, generating approximately US$4.35 billion in tourism earnings. This influx not only supports local businesses but also contributes to community development.
A Vision for the Future
Jamaica’s Director of Tourism, Donovan White, encapsulated the spirit of this initiative: “We believe that tourism should create lasting, positive change in the communities we serve. This initiative at St. James High School is a shining example of how meaningful partnerships can go beyond travel to leave a real impact.”
As the fields at St. James High School come to life, one can’t help but wonder: what other positive changes can we expect from such collaborations in the future?