Above: Martinique (CJ Photo)

By Alexander Britell

American Airlines begins its nonstop service to the French islands of Martinique and Guadeloupe on Saturday.

It represents the first time a US carrier has offered nonstop service from the continental United States to either island in the modern era.

“We are so pleased to have this direct flight from Miami to Fort-de-France, it represents a continuation of the strong relationship we’ve always had with American Airlines,” Muriel Wiltord, director Americas, Martinique Promotion Bureau/CMT Americas, told Caribbean Journal. “This route will significantly benefit travel to and from Martinique and we look forward to providing our American visitors, the best experience.”

Both Martinique and Guadeloupe have been making a renewed push to court tourists in the Western Hemisphere, particularly the United States.

The weekly flights to Martinique’s Fort-de-France will depart Saturdays at 11:40 AM, while the flights to Guadeloupe’s Point-a-Pitre depart from Miami at 11:15 AM.

Both are serviced on Boeing 737s.