St. Thomas' newest tourism partner – United Airlines – was welcomed to the territory in grand style Thursday by Knight Quality Stations.
A luncheon meeting attended by senators and business leaders hosted by station owner Randy Knight was held at Virgilio's Restaurant to celebrate the arrival next month of two flights per weekend from two hubs – Washington's Dulles Airport and Chicago's O'Hare Airport.
Stephen M. Beatus, vice-president for Latin America and the Caribbean said, "It made a lot of sense for us to come here. We're the free world's largest airline and we're always looking for new destinations. St. Thomas looked right."
Beatus said he expects United to expand its service to St. Thomas.
"If things go as good as they appear to be expanded service is in the cards."
Edward Thomas, president of West Indian Company Ltd., said he was encouraged, especially with the other airlines that are also expected to start serving the territory this year. The United presence will increase the potential for overnight visitors – which spend more than the cruise ship passengers, according to Thomas.
Travel consultant Juliana Barzey said, "We really need them. We're already fully booked for the month of December. There are not enough flights. This will help."
Janise M. Robinson, United operations manager for St. Thomas said 14 people have been hired locally. They will go through training and then be hired permenantly, she said.
Beatus said United has partnered with Gulfstream which will be a benefit to St. Croix.
Gustavo Rubio, general manager for Puerto Rico and the USVI, said the Gulfstream flights will be scheduled to allow for connections to St. Croix within an hour of the United arrivals on St. Thomas.
He also said the Gulfstream partnership allows for United connections to many destinations through San Juan daily.
Thomas added that for an airline to make this commitment they must have confidence in the destination.
"We're an American territory. We appeal to the American Tourist. Now we have to do our best to continue to improve the infrastructure and change the perception of crime in St. Thomas."
St. Thomas Source was the first to break the news in March that United Airlines had decided to schedule flights to St. Thomas.
Beatus echoed what United spokesperson Matt Triaca said in March, "This is great for our frequent flyers and our leisure travelers."
United will occupy four desks at the airport at the north end of the terminal, according to Robinson.
The first flight will be Oct. 31.
