A pair of boots, or a flight to Jamaica; this year either choice is affordable; welcome to Flair Airlines

BY SIMONE J. SMITH

What if I told you that you could book a ticket to go to Jamaica, right now for as low as $149 CAD (pending government approval), including taxes and fees?

I know, I know, it sounds way too good to be true, but on Tuesday, December 12^th, 2023, the Toronto Caribbean Newspaper was invited to the official launch of Flair Airlines, Canada’s leading ultra-low fare airline. Naturally, with such BIG news, came an even bigger celebration. Appropriately, the event was held at Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen located at 104 Portland St. in Toronto, Ontario.

Inspired by the warmth and vibrancy of Jamaica’s culture and people, Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen is a take on traditional Caribbean cooking balanced with relevant culinary twists. The restaurant was co-founded as a passion project by Gusto 54 Founder and CEO Janet Zuccarini and Angela Lawrence, Gusto 54’s Chief Culture Officer.

It is located in a circa-1890 row house re-envisioned by Partisans Architects and interior designer Wendy Haworth. For the Flair Airlines event Chubby’s opened up their two floors of seating, two bars, and two outdoor patios. The decor reflected the airline’s brand identity, incorporating its logo, colors, and design elements throughout the restaurant.

The appetizers (fried plantain, spicy shrimp) showcased a harmonious balance of flavours, textures, and the presentation was flawless. Chubby’s Jamaican Kitchen did a great job of melding old and new, inside and out to create a transporting dining experience complete with delicious Caribbean cooking, eclectic design and soulful hospitality. The atmosphere was one of: excitement, anticipation, and a sense of achievement.

The guest list includes a diverse range of attendees: airline executives, industry professionals, social media influencers, media representatives, and potential clients. It was all very glamorous and a perfect setting for the launch. After I grabbed my signature cocktails, I had the opportunity to network and learn more about what we as a community have to look forward to.

It was announced that a new service to Kingston, Jamaica would begin on December 16^th, 2023. Flair Airlines will fly three times weekly between Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ) to Norman Manley International Airport (KIN). With this new route, Flair is delighted to cater to the unique travel needs of the Jamaican Canadian community. Flair recognizes the importance of this connection to facilitate affordable travel between families, friends, and cultures.

 “This is more than just a new route for us—it’s a bridge between communities and an opportunity to create lasting memories,” said Garth Lund, Chief Commercial Officer, Flair Airlines. “Flair Airlines is Canada’s leading low-fare airline and its greenest airline, on a mission to provide affordable air travel that connects them to the people and experiences they love. With an expanding fleet of Boeing 737 aircraft, Flair is growing to serve over 35 cities across Canada, the U.S., Mexico, Dominican Republic, and Jamaica.

There is a vibrant Jamaican community in Canada who will be able to use this service to reconnect with loved ones more often at an affordable price. We look forward to welcoming travelers onboard as we embark on this exciting journey together.”

This year, Flair Airlines is proudly presenting a revolutionary approach to gifting – the “Flair Anti-Gift Guide.” This season they are inviting Canadians to transcend the mundane and embrace the extraordinary by gifting memories and moments that linger in the heart forever.

Amidst a sea of material gifts that often fade into the forgotten corners of our lives, why not offer something truly unforgettable: the gift of experiences that resonate and last a lifetime? I am impressed with how passionate they are about making air travel accessible to all, without breaking the bank. This year, they are delighted to offer Canadians an unparalleled opportunity to indulge in the joy of experiential gifting across North America – all at prices comparable to traditional gifts.

Why choose an experience over a material gift? Imagine this:

• Instead of a $50 bottle of chardonnay, picture yourself soaring to California with Flair.
• Rather than purchasing another pair of shoes, envision burying your toes in the sun-kissed sands of Jamaica.

To further showcase their commitment to reimagining gifting traditions, they are offering, and have offered enticing discounts and thrilling contests every week in December.

 Week 1 (December 1-7):

• 30% off on all Flair flights to Mexico destinations.
• Chance to win Flair flights to Mexico along with an immersive day experience guided by a top-tier tour company.

Week 2 (December 8-14):

• 30% discount on all Flair flights to Florida destinations.
• Chance to win Flair flights to Florida plus a complete luggage set from Herschel.

 Week 3 (December 15-21):

• 30% off on all Flair flights to Las Vegas.
• Win Flair flights to Las Vegas and tickets to experience The Sphere, the epitome of Vegas entertainment.

Week 4 (December 22-29):

• 30% discount on all Flair flights to any Canadian destination.
• Win Flair flights to Montreal and VIP tickets to Osheaga 2024.

If you are interested in giving a gift that your loved one won’t forget, you can find out more about the “Flair Anti-Gift Guide.” by visiting www.flyflair.com.

The Flair Airlines Launch was definitely an event designed to make a memorable first impression on all attendees and it has set the tone for the airline’s future in the industry.