This Saturday, February 24, 2024, American Airlines, as American Eagle operated by Envoy, will begin new service between Miami (MIA) and Ocho Rios, Jamaica (OCJ). But this isn’t just any new destination in American’s international network; this is the first time that OCJ will receive scheduled commercial air service. OCJ is also the first unmanned Air Traffic Control (ATC) airport in Jamaica. This new destination is the result of more than two years of close planning and coordination between teams across Envoy, American and the Jamaican government.
Located on the north shore of Jamaica, east of Montego Bay (MBJ), Ian Fleming International Airport takes its station code – OCJ – from the nearby resort town of Ocho Rios, and its name from the British author famous for the James Bond series of books. Many of the Bond series was written during his time in Jamaica.
Keeping with the James Bond theme, on January 25, Capt. Robert Neider, First Officer Christy Schafer and representatives from Envoy took aircraft 007 (N207AN) from DFW to OCJ on a proving run to test the new approach setup, check in with the airport and local authorities and make sure that everything is safe, compliant and ready for commercial air service to begin at this new destination.
On the ground, the Envoy team met with the team who will make it happen – including aircraft fuelers, agents, customs officials and other airport personnel hired to make this operation a success. Representatives from American Airlines were also on hand to provide hands-on training with a real E175 aircraft before revenue service begins on February 24.
“We’re all pleased to be here today – we’re all working hard to make sure that this new route and destination is a success, and you’re a big part of what will make that happen,” said Envoy Vice President, International Operations, Jorge Ramirez-Blanco during the event. “We’re glad to help customers enjoy all that the Boscobel, Ocho Rios and surrounding areas have to offer.”
Before leaving, Envoy Director, System Operations Control, Robert Nault presented the team with an Embraer 175 aircraft model to mark the event and recognize our partnership. MIA-OCJ service will operate twice weekly starting Feb. 24 with flight AA4007.
Thank you to everyone who continues to make our network and our flight operations a success!
Cover photo: On approach to OCJ. Image taken under FAA Part 91 with no customers on board.