By the Caribbean Journal staff

Spirit has its sights set on Jamaica — and the low-cost carrier is showing now signs of slowing down.

The Fort Lauderdale-based airline is set to launch yet another high-profile expansion to Jamaica this month with a new route from Orlando to Jamaica’s tourism hub of Montego Bay.

A quiet beach in Montego Bay.

The new service, which will operate three times each week, will launch Feb. 28, Caribbean Journal has learned.

The new flights will complement existing Spirit service to Montego Bay out of both Baltimore-Washington and Fort Lauderdale.

The next day, Spirit will add another new route to Jamaica, with a March 1 launch of thrice-weekly service from Orlando to Kingston.

Spirit has been steadily expanding its presence in Orlando, as it looks to turn the airport into a hub for Caribbean travel (including destinations like Puerto Rico, the USVI and the Dominican Republic, among others).

The Jewel Grande Montego Bay.

The moves only reinforce Florida’s growing power as a travel source market to the Caribbean, with Orlando, Miami and, increasingly, Fort Lauderdale, having turned into major air markets for the region.

The poolscape at the new S Hotel in Montego Bay.

Matt Klein, Spirit Airlines’ Senior Vice President and Chief Commercial Officer said Spirit continues to grow in Jamaica “because the beautiful island continues to see an amazing demand for visitors looking to get away to experience the warm beaches, culture and hospitality.”

Heading to Montego Bay? Consider some of the hottest places to stay in the area, from legendary villas to major golf destinations.

— CJ