Tag:
Ministry of Tourism
Travel & Tourism
JetBlue becomes second airline to suspend Belize flights
American low-cost airline JetBlue ended its service between Belize City and New York City on May 21, 2026, as part of a restructuring plan aimed at improving profitability. The suspension of its three weekly flights, which began in 2023, is expected to impact travelers from the United States East Coast seeking a direct route to Belize. This marks the second airline this month to withdraw from the Jewel, following Spirit Airlines' discontinuation of its Belize service on May 2nd.
Travel & Tourism
JetBlue Cancels Direct New York–Belize Flights
JetBlue Airways has announced the cancellation of its direct flights between New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) and Belize City’s Philip S. W. Goldson International Airport (BZE). The service will end on May 21, 2026, affecting travelers seeking nonstop access between the U.S. East Coast and Belize.
Community and Society
Saca Chispas Field to Undergo Major Renovations in 2026
The Hon. Louis Sylvestre Sporting Arena, popularly known as Saca Chispas, located in downtown San Pedro, is set to undergo significant renovations in 2026. The facility is expected to be transformed into a modern, dome-like venue capable of hosting larger-scale sporting events, concerts, and other entertainment. The upgrades will be commissioned by the Ministry of Tourism and are projected to take approximately ten months to complete.
Travel
Spirit Airlines inaugurates non-stop flight from Fort Lauderdale to Belize
On Friday, November 21st, Belize welcomed Spirit Airlines’ first direct flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, USA. When the aircraft landed at the Philip Goldson International Airport, it was greeted by officials from the Ministry of Tourism and the United States Embassy, along with traditional drumming, refreshments, and sweet Belizean treats for the arriving passengers. The inaugural event marked an important new chapter in the country’s air travel connectivity.
Environment
Grants to Combat Sargassum Made Available by the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future
A quarter million dollars in grant funding has been allocated to the Belize Tourism Industry Association (BTIA) and the Belize Hotel Association (BHA) under the Belize Fund for a Sustainable Future to help combat the ongoing Sargassum influx. The funds will support coastal communities struggling with the seaweed and assist established beachfront businesses with clean-up efforts.
Environment
Government Launches Emergency Plan to Tackle Sargassum Surge
In response to a 70% increase in sargassum seaweed washing ashore compared to the last significant event in 2022, the Government of Belize's Cabinet has approved a comprehensive Sargassum Emergency Response Plan, announced on July 17th. This approval comes amid an escalating influx of sargassum that is severely impacting Belize’s coastal communities, tourism, and economy.
Community and Society
San Pedro Artisans Face Deadline to Relocate
San Pedro Town’s local artisans currently operating at the artisan market across from the Saca Chispas Field have been given a deadline to relocate to a new site at El Embarcadero. This initiative, spearheaded by the Ministry of Tourism and the San Pedro Town Council (SPTC), aims to boost the island's appeal to tourists. However, it has faced opposition from artisans and residents.
Community and Society
Injunction against Artisan Marker Project at El Embarcadero dismissed
The construction of a new artisan market at the El Embarcadero site on Nurse Shark Street in downtown San Pedro has been allowed to continue after it was temporarily halted. An injunction was filed against the project in November 2024. On February 3rd, a judge in the High Court in Belize City dismissed the case, granting legal approval for the project led by the Ministry of Tourism and the Area Representative.