Cayman Airways’ vibrantly branded aircraft fleet grew by one on Friday August 14th as the airline’s newest plane, a Saab 340B+, touched down on Cayman soil for the first time.

The 34-seater Saab 340B+ aircraft, freshly branded with the iconic crest of the Cayman flag emblazoned on its tail will serve the Grand Cayman/Cayman Brac route exclusively when active service is launched to replace the 30-seat Embraer E120 service, which is currently operated under a wet-lease arrangement with InterCaribbean Airlines.

A more modern and newer aircraft, the Saab 340B+’s cabin features wider aisles and seats along with increased headroom and larger over-head bins. Additionally, the active noise and vibration control system on board ensures that passengers are able to enjoy the roomier cabin in comfort. Customers will also be pleased to know that with greater cargo capacity, the Saab 340B+ will be able to carry more cargo and baggage.

“We are thrilled to take possession of this new aircraft, which will officially start flying scheduled flights in September,” said Cayman Airways Limited President & CEO, Fabian Whorms. “The monumental undertaking of adding an entirely new aircraft type to our fleet has been challenging, but our team has been rallied and worked diligently to accomplish this task. Now that the aircraft has been delivered the final steps necessary to put the airline into service can be completed. We know many are anxious for the maiden voyage of the Saab and we intend to begin flying as soon as possible.”

Deputy Premier and Minister of District Administration, Tourism, and Transport, the Hon. Moses Kirkconnell, commented: “I am very excited by what this aircraft will mean to the future of tourism in the Sister Islands. Studies have shown that having the right amount of airlift is a driver for economic growth and in order to achieve our goals and enhance the Sister Islands service, it was first necessary to right size the aircraft. The introduction of this Saab 340B+aircraft therefore marks the beginning of a new phase of development for Cayman Airways, and a welcomed enhancement to our inter-island service offering.”

A special reception was held in the Cayman Airways hangar with government dignitaries and officials, along with various industry partners and Cayman Airways board of directors and employees to welcome the delivery of the aircraft after it landed at Owen Roberts International Airport. The aircraft’s official christening will take place for its inaugural scheduled flight from Cayman Brac sometime in September.