Fired! JetBlue sends Kalina Collier packing

 Kalina Collier, the American, who reported that she was being held hostage in Jamaica after testing positive for COVID-19, has been fired from her job.

"After an investigation, the crewmember in question is no longer with JetBlue," said Jetblue in a statement on Tuesday. 

JetBlue first announced yesterday that it had launched an investigation into Collier's actions.

Earlier today, Derek Dombrowski, Manager, Corporate Communications in a statement on behalf of the airline, apologised to the people of Jamaican and the government

"We deeply apologise to the people of Jamaica, and the Jamaican government for the concern and frustration this incident has caused," the statement read.

Meanwhile, Tourism Minister Edmund Bartlett, also welcomed an apology from Chief Executive Officer of JetBlue Airways, Robin Hayes, who issued a personal apology to the Jamaican Government and the people of Jamaica earlier today via telephone a phone call.

Collier made headlines after convincing social media influencers, including Amanda Seales, a US activist, that she was being held against her will.

Her claims were disputed by the police, health officials as well as hotel officials.

Collier arrived in Jamaica on January 28, and was scheduled to depart February 1.

On Saturday, January 30, Collier did an antigen test that returned a positive result; another test an hour later was negative.

Owing to the uncertainty surrounding the two tests, the Ministry of Health and Wellness recommended a PCR test on February 2, which came back positive.

She was given a 14-day quarantine order by the health ministry.

Moreover, US COVID-19 protocols would not allow her entry into the country with a positive result.

The Jamaica Constabulary Force said personnel visited Collier on Saturday, February 13 and that she was not, nor was she at any time, in any danger.

Collier departed Jamaica on Sunday.

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