A new Saab 340B+ joins the fleet

By the Caribbean Journal staff

Cayman Airways has officially christened its newest plane, a Saab 340B+ aircraft.

The plane made its debut at Cayman Brac’s Charles Kirkconnell International Airport.

The 34-seat plane will be phased into service between Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac, replacing the existing 30-seat Embraer E120 plane.

That plane had been operating under a temporary wet-lease arrangement with InterCaribbean Airlines.

“After a thorough evaluation, the Saab 340B+ aircraft was selected as an ideal aircraft to provide the necessary capacity and frequency for service between Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac,” said Cayman Airways President and CEO Fabian Whorms. “This pristine aircraft which was selected, with its low operating costs and fuel efficient engines, are expected to allow Cayman Airways to enhance our service to Cayman Brac. Despite some logistical challenges along the way, we are excited to celebrate the entry of the Saab aircraft into service and look forward to delivering that Caymankind service as only Cayman Airways can.”

Cayman Tourism Minister Moses Kirkconnell said the temporary lease of the Embraer had led to a 20 percent growth in Cayman Brac passengers, something he called a “testament to the potential that right-sized air service can provide.”