In a surprising move, American Airlines has decided to pause all flights from New York to Cancun for two months this fall. This temporary suspension will last from September to November, potentially disrupting plans for those looking to escape to the Caribbean during this period. However, travelers planning trips later in the winter, during Cancun’s peak season, will not be affected.
American Airlines has cited the need to adjust its capacity as the reason for this decision, with the airline’s overall growth rate expected to be 5% lower in the second half of the year. This news has come as a shock to loyal customers who frequently fly from JFK to Cancun. Additionally, Cancun’s recent moderate performance has also contributed to this decision.
Cancun remains the top beach destination for Americans traveling abroad, known for its luxurious beachfront properties, tourist-friendly environment, and high level of hospitality. Despite its popularity, Cancun has seen a slight decrease in traffic this fall, with Mexico experiencing a 1.6% drop in international visitors during the shoulder season. One of the main issues affecting Cancun is the presence of sargassum, a foul-smelling algae that has invaded many beaches, potentially contributing to the decline in demand.
Despite these challenges, Cancun is still on track for a record-breaking year, capturing nearly half of all foreign arrivals to Mexico. American Airlines plans to resume its flights on November 4, just in time for the high season starting in December.
For those affected by the suspension, American Airlines has assured that they are working to re-accommodate customers on affected flights and apologized for any inconvenience. In the meantime, travelers can still fly to Cancun from New York with Delta and Jet Blue, both of which will continue their regular operations. Delta offers 1-2 daily flights, while Jet Blue has at least three flights a day, with fares starting as low as $99 one-way.
American Airlines customers who prefer to stick with their airline can take connecting flights to Cancun through several hubs, including Charlotte, Chicago, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, Philadelphia, and Phoenix.