By Reginald Andrew
Minister for Tourism Dr. Ernest Hilaire has revealed that Virgin Atlantic’s cancelation of flights to Saint Lucia was due to a lack of “room stock”.
As the country seeks to strengthen its hotel business and improve the destination’s uniqueness, this issue cannot be overlooked. The opposition United Workers Party (UWP) chastised the government for Virgin Atlantic’s withdrawal from the air flight radar, blaming it on local tourism officials’ carelessness.
In a previous statement, the St. Lucia Tourism Authority (SLTA) voiced severe concern about the airline cancellations, underlining the inconvenience to travellers and the possible consequences for the tourism industry.
On Monday, Dr. Hilaire addressed the issue, emphasizing the difficulties of airlifting passengers to the island. He noted that this issue began during the previous administration, when “Virgin (Atlantic) pulled away,” and that conversations with the airline regarding a future comeback are still ongoing.
“As a government, we do not pay minimum guarantees to airlines,” Dr. Hilaire explained.
He emphasized that they notified Virgin Atlantic’s representatives that the key issue about the airline’s comeback is the assurance of available rooms for Virgin Holidays and other commercial operations.
The minister noted that the English market is “family vacation” orientated, and that Saint Lucia is currently expanding its hospitality sector with the development and refurbishment of various resort properties.
However, due to a loss of rooms, the island was unable to meet its goal of providing adequate room stock for family holidays and lone travellers. He stated that “all the rooms in Saint Lucia are moving towards couples,” with honeymoon and wedding locations being particularly popular.
Furthermore, vacation businesses’ prices are lower than the targeted rates. “Saint Lucia is transitioning into a luxury destination, resulting in higher daily rates,” he said.
Dr. Hilaire stated that, while there has been a commitment to increasing the number of available rooms, the existing shortage puts the destination at risk. “We cannot be perceived solely as a luxury destination, as this would exclude a significant market segment,” he told reporters.
He emphasized the critical need for a broad housing provision, promoting “home accommodation” as a feasible option. Some airlines are looking for package deals that include rooms, which adds to the urgency of the situation.
Dr. Hilaire repeated: “We require additional 3-Star and even 4-Star hotels in Saint Lucia that can meet market demands.”
A family of five, for example, has budgetary challenges when booking airline tickets and accomodations at the same time. He explained that for Virgin Atlantic, it simply did not make economic sense to continue operating without the needed room stock.
He remarked on a difference in hotel categories from a few years ago, referencing the Royalton Hotel’s unique arrangements.
Despite a shortfall of approximately 500 rooms, the island had a “record-breaking year,” resulting in fewer tourists.
According to Dr. Hilaire, “Virgin (Atlantic) has assured us they intend to return to Saint Lucia, and we expect that next year, more rooms will become available.”
Despite losses, the Minister stated, “We have challenges in the industry…” (But) the future looks bright, and given the next two years, it will be even bigger than it has ever been. But right now, we need to manage it more delicately.”
Moving forward, the SLTA reiterates its commitment to working with Virgin Atlantic and other airlines to avoid inconveniences and extends a warm welcome to travelers. The focus remains on improving the guest experience and guaranteeing the industry’s resiliency.