There are several airlines that offer nonstop and connecting flights from Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL) to various airports in Jamaica. The main airports in Jamaica that have flights from Fort Lauderdale are Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay, Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston, and Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) in Ocho Rios. The most common airlines operating these routes include JetBlue, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Southwest Airlines, United Airlines, Spirit Airlines, and InterCaribbean Airways.
Nonstop flights from FLL to Jamaica
Currently there are nonstop flights from Fort Lauderdale to 2 airports in Jamaica:
- Sangster International Airport (MBJ) in Montego Bay – offered by JetBlue, Southwest Airlines, and Spirit Airlines
- Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) in Kingston – offered by JetBlue
The nonstop flight times range from about 2 hours 20 minutes up to 3 hours depending on the airline and aircraft. The main airlines operating nonstop flights on these routes include:
JetBlue
JetBlue offers multiple daily nonstop flights from FLL to both MBJ and KIN airports in Jamaica. Flight times are typically around 2 hours 40 minutes. JetBlue operates these routes using Airbus A321 aircraft.
Southwest Airlines
Southwest has nonstop flights from Fort Lauderdale to Sangster International Airport in Montego Bay several days per week. Flight time is approximately 2 hours 25 minutes on Boeing 737 jets.
Spirit Airlines
Spirit Airlines flies nonstop from FLL to MBJ up to twice daily using Airbus A320 family aircraft. Flight duration is around 2 hours 20 minutes.
Connecting flights from Fort Lauderdale to Jamaica
In addition to the nonstop options, there are also numerous connecting flights from Fort Lauderdale to Jamaica’s two main international airports – Sangster (MBJ) and Norman Manley (KIN) on several major US airlines:
American Airlines
American Airlines offers connecting service to MBJ through its hub in Miami, with flight times totaling around 5 hours. American also has connecting flights into Kingston’s Norman Manley Airport via Miami or Charlotte taking approximately 5-6 hours total.
Delta Air Lines
Delta has connecting flights from Fort Lauderdale to Montego Bay routing through its Atlanta hub. Total travel time is around 6 hours. Delta does not currently offer connecting flights into Kingston from FLL.
United Airlines
United operates connecting service to both Montego Bay and Kingston from Fort Lauderdale by routing through its hubs in Houston, Newark, or Washington Dulles. Total journey times range from about 5-7 hours depending on layover times.
InterCaribbean Airways
InterCaribbean flies from Fort Lauderdale to Norman Manley Airport in Kingston via San Juan. Flight duration is around 3 hours 40 minutes.
Other airports in Jamaica with connecting service from FLL
A few other Jamaican airports further away from the main tourism centers also have connecting flight options from Fort Lauderdale including:
Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ)
This smaller airport serves the Ocho Rios area on Jamaica’s north coast. American Airlines offers connecting service through Miami taking approximately 6 hours total.
Negril Aerodrome (NEG)
Negril on Jamaica’s west coast can be reached from Fort Lauderdale via Montego Bay on a connecting flight. Total travel time is around 5-6 hours depending on layover duration.
Factors to consider when choosing flights to Jamaica from Fort Lauderdale
When selecting flights from Fort Lauderdale to Jamaica, there are several factors to take into account:
Airport proximity
Consider which Jamaican airport is closest to your intended destination. Sangster International in Montego Bay serves Jamaica’s northwest coast including Ocho Rios. Norman Manley in Kingston is best for south/southwest coasts.
Flight duration
Nonstop flights are fastest at 2-3 hours. Connecting flights typically range from 5-7 hours total depending on layover times.
Flight schedules
Review flight days/times to find the best fits for your trip plans. Nonstops have multiple daily options while some connecting flights may only operate 1-2 days per week.
Airline terminals
Fly from the terminal at FLL that provides the easiest connections. JetBlue and Southwest use Terminal 3. Other airlines use Terminal 1.
Baggage fees and amenities
Compare airline baggage allowances, fees, aircraft types, and onboard services. Low cost carriers typically have extra fees.
Frequent flier programs
Flying with your preferred airline can help you earn rewards and status in their loyalty program.
Price
Factor in the fare price, taxes, fees, and baggage costs to determine the best overall value. Check rates across multiple dates.
Tips for flying from Fort Lauderdale to Jamaica
To help your flight to Jamaica go smoothly, keep these tips in mind:
Allow plenty of time
Arrive at FLL airport 2-3 hours before your departure time to accommodate check-in, security, and potential lines. Time needed may vary based on your terminal.
Check-in online
Most airlines allow online check-in 24 hours prior to departure to save time at the airport. You can print boarding passes or use mobile versions.
Know your limits
Be aware of baggage size and weight restrictions to avoid excess fees. Measuring luggage before leaving home prevents surprises.
Pack wisely
Put identification, medicines, valuables, and anything you may need during the flight in your carry-on bag. Checked bags can get delayed.
Confirm departure terminal
Double check whether your airline uses FLL Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 to ensure you arrive at the correct concourse for your flight.
Clear customs beforehand
You can now complete customs and immigration processes through electronic kiosks at FLL prior to departure which saves significant time upon arrival in Jamaica.
Relax and enjoy
Sit back, relax and get ready for an awesome vacation in Jamaica once you’ve taken care of pre-travel preparations and arrived at the airport on time!
Conclusion
In summary, getting from Fort Lauderdale to Jamaica is easy with both nonstop and connecting flight options on major US airlines and low cost carriers. The nonstop flights are fastest at around 2-3 hours while connecting flights range from 5-7 hours with layovers. Key airports in Jamaica served from FLL include Montego Bay, Kingston, and Ocho Rios. Flyers should consider factors like price, flight times, baggage policies, and loyalty programs when booking their air travel to Jamaica. Arriving early, checking in online, and packing wisely can help ensure a smooth journey from south Florida to Jamaica for a fantastic tropical vacation getaway!