Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/1543954
Regional Tourism Development," was held at the Hamilton Princess & Beach Club. Hosted by CTO in partnership with the Government of Bermuda, the summit forms part of the organization's Spring Business Meetings and aligns with CTO's Reimagine Plan and the work of its Airlift Committee to support sustainable growth through improved connectivi- ty. "This summit brings together the people making decisions that directly shape how the region connects with itself and the world," said CTO Secretary-General and CEO Dona Regis-Prosper. "By uniting ministers, airline leaders, airport authorities and tourism executives in one forum, we are cre- ating a platform for alignment, collaboration and action." With modern infrastructure, year-round appeal and the recent launch of BermudAir, Bermuda offers a compelling example of how targeted air service can strengthen tourism resilience and economic development. Hosting the summit also provides an opportunity to showcase the island's robust infrastructure and recent advancements while facilitating high-level dialogue on issues affecting the entire region, from intra-Caribbean routes to long-haul international air service. The agenda featured a strong lineup of speakers and pan- els addressing critical industry topics. Edmond Rose, Consulting Director of Aviation at ASM Global Route Development, presented the CTO Air Connectivity Study, offering data-driven insights into regional trends. Rose brought more than 25 years of experience in airline planning and slot coordination. Opening remarks were delivered by Owen Darrell, Minister of Tourism & Transport, Culture & Sport, Bermuda; Ian Gooding-Edg-hill, Chairman, CTO Minister- ial Council & Minister of Tourism & International Transport, Barbados; Regis- Prosper; and Erin Wright, COO & Acting CEO, Bermuda Tourism Authority. Panels included "Airside Chat I: Route Development – Connecting the Region to the World," featuring José María Giraldo, Managing Director of Operations for México, Central America, the Caribbean and Canada, American Airlines; Daniel Shurz, Senior Vice President, Revenue, Network and Enterprise Planning, JetBlue Airways; Dave Hodges, Vice President, Americas, Virgin Atlantic; Matt Chaifetz, CEO, Contour Aviation; Jonathon Freye, Executive Director, Association of Value Airlines; and Adam Scott, Founder & CEO, BermudAir. The session were moderated by Nicolás Gurwicz, Founder & Managing Director, Altura Aviation Consulting. For further information, visit https://bit.ly/ctoairconnectivity. France, it features modern and reliable infrastructure, including well-maintained roads, utilities, hospitals, and telecommunica- tions services on par with any other part of the European Union. The island's unspoiled beaches, volcanic peaks, lush rain- forests, and more than 80 miles of hiking trails and waterfalls make it one of the Caribbean's premier natural wonders. This unique blend of modern conveniences, pristine nature, and rich cultural heritage has earned Martinique several prestigious dis- tinctions in recent years. It was featured on The New York Times' "52 Places to Go in 2023" list, named "Best Caribbean Destination" by About.com, and recognized as the "Top Caribbean Island for Delectable Dining" by Caribbean Travel & Life. The Bay of Fort-de-France, fronting the island's vibrant capital, was also inducted into The Club of the Most Beautiful Bays in the World. Adding to its prestige, Martinique has been designated a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, and the iconic yole (or skiff) has been recognized by UNESCO for its cultural signifi- cance. A destination like no other – Martinique c'est mag- nifique! For more information, visit us.martinique.org. TOP TOURISM AND AVIATION LEADERS HEADLINE CTO AIR CONNECTIVITY SUMMIT IN BERMUDA B M & T ••• March/April 2026 ••• www.blackmeetingsandtourism.com 44 CARIBBEAN CORNER The Caribbean Tourism Organization's (CTO) Air Connectivity Summit. Was held during late February in Bermuda. Top airline executives, airport leaders, tourism minis- ters, directors and policymakers converged to tackle one of the region's most persistent challenges: improving air access. The one-day event, titled "Integrating Aviation and