Caribbean Airlines launches first J’ouvert band, rum punch to celebrate Caribbean culture

Caribbean Airlines said on Monday that it had launched Caribbean Iere Mas (CIM), its first J’ouvert band, as part of its Caribbean Culture Program.

“This initiative celebrates the vibrant identity of the Caribbean region while providing an unforgettable experience for employees, customers, and carnival enthusiasts alike,” the Trinidad and Tobago-based airline said.

“The CIM band promises an exciting, fun-filled, and safe J’ouvert road experience for masqueraders,” it added. “This initiative further cements Caribbean Airlines’ role as a cultural connector, showcasing the rich heritage of the Caribbean during the world-famous Trinidad Carnival season.”

Adding to the excitement, Caribbean Airlines said it has partnered with Angostura to introduce the Caribbean Iere Mix, a signature rum punch inspired by the region’s unique flavors.

Caribbean Airlines said this “delightful beverage” will be served on board flights during the Carnival season and available for purchase at the Caribbean Airlines Duty-Free Shop at the Piarco International Airport in Trinidad, “ensuring customers can enjoy a true taste of the Caribbean.”

Garvin Medera, chief executive officer of Caribbean Airlines, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiatives.

“Caribbean Airlines is a nexus for connecting people, places, and cultures,” he said. “Through initiatives like Caribbean Culture and CIM, we celebrate what makes our region special while creating unforgettable moments for our customers and employees.

“The launch of CIM and Caribbean Iere Mix is an extension of our mission to celebrate the Caribbean spirit while enhancing the customer experience,” he added.

Angostura’s Executive Manager, Business Efficiency and Shared Services, Rahim Mohammed, said, “We are excited to collaborate with Caribbean Airlines to offer a specially crafted rum punch for passengers and at a time when we are celebrating our 200th anniversary.

“This rum punch, produced by Angostura’s expert mixologists, is the perfect blend of ripe passion fruit, succulent mango, tangy pineapple, and our world-renowned ANGOSTURA®️ aromatic bitters,” he added. “The unique and exclusive IERE mix allows us to share a taste of the tropics with Caribbean Airlines’ passengers in a memorable way and elevate their travel experience. It was produced to offer an authentic island-inspired experience.”

Caribbean Airlines said the Caribbean Culture Program aligns with the airline’s growth strategy, “leveraging cultural engagement to enhance customer experiences and deepen regional connections.”

By entering the Carnival space, the airline said it adds “an exciting new dimension” to its offerings, further demonstrating its commitment to celebrating and preserving Caribbean heritage.

Caribbean Airlines said pre-registration for Caribbean Iere Mas is now open to the public.

“Don’t miss this opportunity to join Caribbean Airlines on the road for an authentic and unforgettable J’ouvert experience,” it said.

For more information and to pre-register, visit https://cim.caribbean-airlines.com.