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CNWEEKLYNE WS.COM
THURSDAY JANUARY 9, 2025
Bodies Found in Jetblue Wheel Well Rumored to be Jamaican
Two individuals were found dead in the wheel well of a JetBlue aircraft after it landed at Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport on Monday night. The airline confirmed the discovery on Tuesday, although the identities of the deceased remain unknown. The circumstances surrounding how they accessed the aircraft are still under investigation. continues on B3 – JetBlue
Diaspora and Entertainment Fuel Jamaica's US$4 Billion Tourism Boom Jamaica's tourism industry is thriving, with the diaspora playing an increasingly pivotal role in its success. In 2024, the country earned a record-breaking US$4.3 billion from 4.3 million visitors, underscoring the sector's resilience and cultural pull. Minister of Tourism Edmund Bartlett credited the strong performance to the country's enduring appeal despite challenges such as reduced airline capacity, Hurricane Beryl, and travel advisories. "We had 68,000 less seats into Jamaica, which meant there was a natural reduction in the projected figures in terms of arrivals. Tourism, as you know, is resilient," Bartlett said.
A key driver of this resilience is the tradition of Jamaicans living abroad returning home during the festive season. December has long been a peak period for the diaspora to reconnect with family, friends, and cultural roots. This trend continues to grow, bringing significant economic benefits to the island. An increase in entertainment offerings has also fueled the island's tourism boom in 2024. One of the standout events during this holiday season was the New Year's Eve Freedom Street concert at Kingston's National Stadium, which exemplifies the robust tourism tie between Jamaica and its diaspora. The concert, headlined by dancehall star Vybz
Kartel (his first performance in 13 years), drew close to 40,000 attendees at the stadium — according to event producer and Downsound Entertainment executive Cordel 'Skatta' Burrell — including a significant number of diaspora visitors. These international arrivals helped fill hotels and short-term rentals across Kingston. The event also attracted a number of high-profile celebrities like Jamaican-American rapper Busta Rhymes and Canadian-American model Winnie Harlow who joined in the revelry. continues on B2 – Tourism boom
WHAT’S INSIDE NEWSMAKER First Haitian-American US attorney in Florida, announces resignation a3
CARIBBEAN Stuart Young chosen as next PNM leader as Rowley prepares to resign A4
WOMEN IN FOCUS Actress Sheryl Lee Ralph to receive Hollywood Star this month A8
SPORTS Dwayne Bravo appointed head coach of Abu Dhabi Knight Riders for ILT20 B7