BVI Airways has begun training its initial class of BVI resident Cabin Crew as it prepares to launch its 2.5 hour non-stop service from the British Virgin Islands to Miami.

After a two part interview process conducted in September, BVIA selected four BVI residents as the first class of Cabin Crew that will serve on BVI Airways’ AVRO 100 jets.

Training started Tuesday in the British Virgin Islands and will continue next week in Fort Lauderdale, Florida.

The intensive and rigorous training protocols are focused on passenger and aircraft safety, first aid, customer service and emergency procedures, BVI Airways said.

“The hiring and training of our Cabin Crew is one of the key milestones as we prepare to begin operations in the Virgin Islands,” said President and CEO of BVIA, Jerry Willoughby. “Our primary goals were to recruit customer service and safety centric personnel who reflect the spirit and essence of the BVI– we are delighted that our first class of BVI residents exceeded our goals.”

The company plans to launch the service before the end of this year.

— Dana Niland