Planning a trip with Caribbean Airlines? Get routes, baggage rules, booking tips and an honest review before you book your flight.
Caribbean Airlines is the state-owned airline of Trinidad and Tobago and serves the Caribbean, North America, Guyana and a few other Caribbean destinations. It has a major platform in Port of Spain, with a strong platform in Kingston, Jamaica as well. It operates Boeing 737 aircraft on longer routes and ATR turboprops on short regional flights, with the sale of two cabins: Economy and Business.
If you’re planning a trip and researching Where Can You Go Without a Passport? Full Guide understanding Caribbean Airlines’ routes and destinations can help you explore your travel options.
So, should it be worth flying? Yes, for most travelers, particularly if you’re traveling from the Caribbean to places such as New York, Miami, or Toronto. However, it has all sorts of quirks and I learned them the hard way.
Let me walk you through all of it.
Why I’m Writing This
I’m going to spill the beans here: I was not an airline nerd in the beginning. I began as someone who had to arrive for his grandmother’s birthday and forty or so minutes to make a choice of flights.
This was my first experience booking with this airline. I chose the cheapest fare and I didn’t read the fine print and arrived at the airport with a suitcase that I packed as if I’m moving house. Answer: No, I wasn’t packing up my house. The agent at the counter smiled kindly and then he explained to me the weight of my bag.
Since then, I have been flying the airline numerous times. I’ve had flights that took off on time, I’ve had one that stayed on the tarmac long enough for me to make a podcast, I’ve had a flight attendant give me an extra snack because I don’t look well. I really looked exhausted, I’ve got to tell you.
Here is a guide to all the things that I wish I had known before my first trip.
Caribbean Airlines Background at a Glance
Let’s take a quick look at the snapshot before we get more in-depth.
| Detail | What to Know |
| Based in | Trinidad and Tobago (state owned) |
| Main hub | Piarco International Airport is the airport in Port of Spain. |
| Other key base | Kingston, Jamaica |
| Fleet | How to fly Boeing 737s and ATR turboprops |
| Cabins | Economy and Business |
| Alliance | None |
| Typical destinations | New York, Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Toronto, Georgetown, Barbados, Kingston and more! |
| Official website | caribbean-airlines.com |
Airlines frequently update their fees, routes and fleet. Please check the latest information on the airline’s website before booking any flights.
This requires a little background since context is helpful.A little background, since context is helpful.
It started in 2007 following the closure of the previous BWIA airline, and inherited many of its routes and history. You may very well have a view on BWIA if you lived in the area. A lot of that is my uncle saying, “The old planes had more soul.
The airline now operates as the regional work-horse. The Caribbean version of the neighborhood bus, the service may not be the shiny, modern version of a big global airline, but it knows its route, knows its passengers — and gets a ton of families where they need to go.
That identity matters. Not all the passengers are tourists. They’re family, students, nurses, and business owners who fly this airline because it goes where they live and love.
What is the reason for the flight of an airplane?
Caribbean Airlines operates flights to approximately two dozen destinations in the Caribbean, North America and South America. Many itineraries use Trinidad as a hub even if it’s not the final destination as Port of Spain is the hub of the network.
Here are the main groups of routes:
- In North America it is New York (JFK), Miami, Fort Lauderdale and Toronto. These routes are very busy and tend to get full around holidays.
- Caribbean: There are short-range flights between the islands of the Caribbean, including between Jamaica, Barbados, Tobago, Grenada, St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Antigua and the other islands.
- South America: Georgetown, Guyana, is a significant route and has been increasing in importance over the past few years.
The one thing I personally appreciate about the network – it offers you choices that the larger carriers don’t offer. Looking to travel from Trinidad to Tobago via short plane ride? Done. Attempting to go to Guyana with no mess of connections? Often easy.
This one comes from my own experience, make sure that your flight is a direct or connecting flight before you pay for it. I’m not sure what went wrong, but on my second visit I thought ‘direct’ meant ‘no stops’. It meant that the flight number remained the same. I’m spending more time than I intended in Port of Spain!
If you’d like a closer look, see “What’s It Like Onboard?” below” section website.
Let me tell you the truth, no brochure.
Economy
What it is, it’s pretty comfortable in the economy. The seats are the standard ones found on narrow-body jets, making them comfortable and having just the right dimensions for taller passengers! The flight attendants are friendly and talkative, and their warmth is what I remember most. One flight stands out: a flight attendant had a short chat with a first-time flyer in front of me, and by the time we landed, the two seemed like they’d known each other for years.
On the shorter trips, it’s easy to have a service, and on the longer trips, it’s typically the old-fashioned service with a snack or meal. What is offered varies from year to year; if there is no mention of dinner, don’t assume that it’s included.
Business Class
Business Class will provide you with extra space, extra service and a better meal. It’s a fair upgrade for longer flights, or when you need to land fresh to meet for a meeting. Compare with what you’d pay for more comfort on other routes, as the jump is not great on some routes.
Entertainment and Wi-Fi
Forgo in-car entertainment. Get your shows, music and books before you leave. I don’t see the in-flight screen as a plan, it’s more like a nice surprise. It has helped me avoid a lot of tedious hours.
Pronouns: Everybody Asks About
If you only remember one part of this article, remember today’s. Baggage rules are one of the most annoying things at the boarding area and they vary between routes, fare classes and travel classes.
In general, you should know the following:
- Carry-on: The majority of passengers are allowed to take one cabin bag and one personal item (purse, laptop bag or small backpack bag) free of charge.
- Checked bags: are allowed and the amount depends on fare and destination. Some airlines offer a checked bag on their fares, others may ask for a fee for the checked bag on their lowest fare.
- Max weight limits: This is usually 23kg (50lb) for a standard checked bag on most airlines. That’s what number I wish I’d know before I moved out.
- Bag sizes: Airlines have a maximum permitted size for each bag based on its length, width and height.
- Excess baggage: Additional fees may apply, and international charges can quickly become expensive.
I found this analogy that really helped me to understand. You can think of the bag allowance as similar to a gym membership: They tell you what you can get and what you need to pay for if you want more. The ones who are caught with fees are the ones that didn’t read the plan.
These are my rules of thumb for my bags:
- Peruse the baggage line on your booking confirmation. Screenshot it.
- Use a cheap baggage scale to weigh the bag at home. It’s just a few bucks, and it will save you cash.
- Have plenty of space in luggage. There’s a good chance that you will take something home.
- Pack the heaviest coat for the airplane. No one has ever been charged for wearing a coat.
- Please refer to the official baggage page for details, particularly near the boarding time of the flight, as policies may change.
If you have to bring gifts of food (and let’s face it, if you’re flying between family houses then you will) then look into the customs laws of your destination country first. Certain countries restrict fresh fruit, meat and other snacks.
Learn how to book flights (and save money)
It’s possible to arrange directly on the airline website or app, by way of a travel agent, or by using comparison websites. Each has its place.
Direct booking will often provide the most transparent information regarding fare rules, baggage policies and seat selection. It’s also easier to make changes and service customers without the need for a middle man.
Caribbean: Jamaica, Barbados , Tobago , Grenada , St. Lucia, St. Vincent, Antigua, and some other islands are linked by quick regional flights.
South America: The route through Georgetown, Guyana has become more significant these days.
One thing I love about the network: It offers alternatives that larger airlines just can’t. Want to fly from Trinidad to Tobago on a short hop? Done. Hoping to get to Guyana without a tangle of stops? More often than you might expect, yes.
An advice based on my own experience: always have a look if your flight is connecting or nonstop before you purchase. My second trip and I thought “direct” meant not connecting. It means the airline number is the same. I spent more time at Port of Spain than I planned.
What’s It Like Onboard?
Here’s the truth, we’ll give you the real-no-fluff-version!
Economy
The economy is fairly standard as far as narrowbodies go: seats are narrow (good luck if you’re tall), there’s standard legroom, and the cabin staff are generally friendly and talkative. The one thing I remember most is how warm and friendly they are. On a recent overnight flight, a flight attendant spent a few minutes chatting with a nervous first-time flier sitting in front of me, and by the time we landed they were swapping family stories like old friends.
Shorter flights are easily service free, long flights tend to still offer some of the traditional experience, possibly a snack or meal. It’s evolving, so don’t expect a full dinner unless it’s explicitly included in your fare.
Business Class
Business Class: more room, priority check-in and a more substantial meal. This is a good choice if you’re travelling longer haul or want to land energised for a business meeting. Think about the extra cost versus the comfort you’ll get elsewhere, as on some routes the upgrade isn’t massive.
Entertainment and Wi-Fi
Forget the entertainment system in-flight, for it is a trap. Download your shows, tunes, and literature in advance. I look on the in-flight screen as a nice surprise not a guarantee, which has gotten me through many a dull hour.
Baggage: The Section Every Person Inquires About
Price comparison sites will give you a quick view of price disparities. I use them for scouting the market then I visit the airline’s website prior to purchase.
Hopefully, this is the one section of this article you will actually retain. Nothing ruins a getaway faster than baggage rules at the check-in counter, and they will be different for your trip depending on your itinerary, cabin and fare class.
Here‘s what you should know in general:
- Carry-on: As a general rule, travelers are allowed one carry-on (suitcase) and one personal item (purse, laptop case, small backpack) for free.
- Checked baggage: this will be determined by your destination and how much you paid for your fare. Some fares will include the checked bag, while others will charge a fee.
- Weight limits: Airlines conventionally allow you to check an average ordinary bag weighing no more than around 23kg (50lb). I only learned that recently – before I began packing like a heavy mover.
- Size limits, which include a maximum combined length, width, and height that the airline permits for each bag.
- Excess baggage: Additional fees may apply when luggage exceeds the airline’s weight limit, and international charges can add up quickly.
Here’s an example that finally made this click for me. Treat your baggage allowance as you would a gym membership: the airline is very explicit about what is included and anything beyond that is an additional. Those who pay are those that never read the plan.
My baggage rules of thumb:
- Tap on the baggage line on your booking confirmation. Send a screenshot of it.
- Shop smart, in advance With a cheap luggage scale, that takes the guesswork out of navigating the lugging. It costs a few bucks, but you might be able to make that up in the cab ride home.
- Tuck some space into your suitcase. You’re likely to be bringing something back.
- Take your largest coat to the plane. Airlines have not yet charged fees based on the use of a coat.
- Revisit the baggage page again before departure too as they could be revised.
Should you be taking edible gifts (and again, you are doing this if taking flights to relatives’ homes), then begin by reading the customs regulations from your destination country. Some countries will prohibit fresh fruit, travel meat and certain snack foods.
How to Book Flights (and Save Money)
You can book directly via the airline website or app, via a travel agent or one of the comparison sites, there is definitely a time and a place for everyone.
Booking directly might also give you the most clarity with fare rules, baggage and selecting seats. And it might make any adjustments or customer service a lot easier because you’re not booking through anyone else.
The beauty of price comparison sites is that you can see the price differences very quickly. I use them to get an idea of the overall market, and then go on to the airline’s website to make my purchase.
They are capable of managing challenging schedules or adventure trips, as well as group travel, and they have strong ties to the Caribbean community.
Here‘s how I hunt for better prices:
- Be flexible with dates. Adjust your trip plan by a day or two and you might see the price change by a significant difference. Opt to fly on a Wednesday or Thursday rather than a Friday or Sunday.
- Skip peak holiday times at all costs. Christmas, Carnival, Easter and summer holidays will all make for packed planes and higher prices so avoid them if you can. But if you have to go then book well in advance.
- 1. Seek discounts. The airline often has sales. By subscribing to the airline’s email notifications or Facebook/Twitter page, you can sometimes get access to those deals.
- Compare fare types and not just prices. The lowest fare that still charges you for bags could end up costing you more than the more expensive fare which includes one.
- Price alerts. Use free tools to follow a route and be alerted when prices drop.
Once I purchased a flight on a Sunday, then decided to save 200 by changing to the following Tuesday. Same airplane, same flight, same route just a day later. That’s a taxi to the airport, a meal, and a gift for my Aunt.
Check-In, Manage Booking, and Flight Status
Most ones they look for this airline are either to fly one of the above, so let’s make it simple for them.
- Online check-in: Before you can even get to the airport you can check-in online or through the mobile app of most airlines. It reduces the time you will be stuck in the queue and helps you pick your seat.
- Mengatur entri: View or change flight on the website of your airline with your reference booking and last name. Don’t throw away that confirmation email.
- 3. Flight status: Always check their site or application on the day of your trip to stay updated. I like to do this the day before I am due to fly so I have time to adjust if needed.
- Train or plane to and from If flying, time to airport: 3 hours before international departure. They usually close their counters exactly one hour before departure and I have seen people run the entire length of our terminal to catch their flight after the counter closes… don’t be that person. (Though I believe I was that person… I can’t say I recommend it.)
At the airport Information about official airport and security procedures, and a guide from the Transportation Security Administration (if you are travelling from or via the United States):
Airline Fidelity
That is what I get asked most often, and here is how I would answer that in the company of friends over coffee: yes and no, with some exceptions.
As with other regional airlines, it is subject to delays, weather-related delays, and, on occasion, schedule revisions. Tropical storms and hurricane season (about June through November) can throw a wrench in travel plans everywhere in the region, and no airline has any influence over the weather.
My personal rating was as follows: mostly there on time, a few delays, and one delay just long enough to test my patience. Staff were communicating in all cases; the delays I experienced were within reason. Your mileage may vary, and reviews vary widely online, as they do for almost any airline.
Here‘s how I protect myself:
- Create a cushion. When you have a connection, prepare ahead. Never plan an important appointment on the same day for a close connection.
- Take necessities with your carry-on. Your medications, chargers, a backup outfit, and anything you’re going to need should stay with you.
- Learn your passenger rights. Regulations are different between countries and journeys. For example, the US Department of Transportation has an air travel consumer information page outlining what you’re due.
- Reflect on Travel Insurance for pricey or non-refundable excursions, in particular vacation season.
Pros and Cons of Flying With This Airline
Here‘s how I think about it, based on my own flying experiences.
| Pros | Cons |
| Robust connections throughout the Caribbean and to key North American markets | Delays are a possibility especially during peak season and storm season |
| Warm crew friendly crew | Limited in-flight entertainment choices compared to bigger airlines |
| Direct routes worth taking skipped by bigger airlines | 2) Baggage is different based on fare and route. That can be confusing. |
| Frequent competitive prices on most routes | Connections tend to go through the Port of Spain. |
| Deeply connected to the local community it serves | Not in a big alliance, fewer partner benefits |
Practical Tips From Someone Who Learned the Hard Way
Let me try to boil my very best advice down into a handy list.
- Pay for what’s actually true. Know your fare conditions before you pay. Not after.
- Make sure your passport is valid. Most countries require at least 6 months. Mine was 5…not really fun.
- Check the entry requirements for all the countries you‘ll visit, including transit countries.
- Download the app and take your boarding pass offline.
- Additional rule: Take along a snack. Commercial fare is expensive from airport tarmacs and disappoints at 6:00 a.m.
- If your reasoning matters, grab your preferred seat early. I have a strong affinity for window seats.
- Be early. There is nothing worse than rushing off to the airport.
- Be considerate with the staff. They’re working with the chaos and the cranky passengers all day. A pinch of patience, a dash of kindness.
Who Should Take Flight Would you like to learn more about Thai Airway flight?
Based on my trips, I‘d say this airline suits these travelers best:
- Families visiting friends across the region who cherish the routes and the sense of community
- For travelers going to or from Trinidad, Tobago, Jamaica, or Guyana, where the airline‘s network shines
- Passengers who are price sensitive and compare fare prices across carriers, and who pay close scrutiny to baggage conditions
- Anyone that prefers a friendly, humble flying experience over a show-off
You may have second thoughts if every one of these factors are a top priority for you: Completely loaded entertainment system. Consistent hit-the-runway-on-time performance.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the airline’s headquarters?
Its base is in Trinidad and Tobago, with a hub at Piarco International Airport near Port of Spain.
Is Caribbean Airlines a safe airline?
Most visitors think it’s a good, friendly, reliable airline, particularly for Caribbean and North-American routes. Just like all airlines, it has its fair share of issues, so check up-to-date traveller reviews and fares before making a booking.
Bag. Make sure the airline provides a secondary bag.
This depends on your route & fare type. A number of fares include a checked bag, others do not. You can view your booking and your airline‘s baggage page before you fly.
At what time can I attend registration for my scheduled departure?
…Board foreign flights an hour before departure…the check-in counters will close an hour prior to the scheduled departure.
Online check-in?
Q : Is there any way I can be checked in online/on a mobile before departure? YES! We can generally be checked in online/on a mobile before the scheduled departure of your flight. Please check with the airline.
What are the airline timings?
The airline classes are Economy and Business.
Para 7.1. Is the airline part of an alliance?
Can it be used by independents? Do we have No Independent? It is independent, and is not to be included in the major international groupings.
What happens if my flight is delayed or cancelled?
Rebook straight away by contacting the airline through application or internet or at the airport desk. Keep any expense receipts at food and hotels, and check your passenger’s particular rights to the route.
Where does the airline have operations at airports in the US?
- It generally also supports New York (JFK) Miami and Fort Lauderdale. Routes may differ, so please check on existing service on the primary site.
My Final Take
If you’ve made it this far, I’m assuming you have a trip around the corner and I am completely thrilled for you. It’s not about flying Caribbean Airlines for comfort, it’s about flying Caribbean Airlines for the feeling of being connected; to family, to the island, to places where there is a warm hug waiting for you the moment you come through the cabin door.
Will I fly it again? Are you kidding? Just this time I have more time: I check the baggage allowance, I weigh my suitcase, I take into account spare time and I book well in advance for the holidays.
Follow those some-points, and have most of the hassle I learned on my first trip. Pack it smart, plan it flexibly, and have the “howdy” ready for your crew. They’ll tell.
A safe trip and take the journey.
Helpful Resources
- Airline Official Website : This is the best platform to book flights, online check-in and also to handle the booking.
It also features updated information about the baggage policies, fees, and flight status. - Airline profile :airline history and data, ownership. bases.
Some background info on how it originated from BWIA and then was taken over by Air Jamaica.
