Winward Islands Airways International (WINAIR), which services the region, including the [British] Virgin Islands, has announced the acquisition of two (2) ATR 42-500 series aircraft, one of which will fly to Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport on Beef Island. Photo: WINAIR

WINAIR's partnership with Air Antilles will continue to evolve, strengthening WINAIR’s and Air Antilles’ route structure in the Caribbean, also providing commonality of fleet type” stated Mr Michael Cleaver, President & CEO, in a press release on November 17, 2022. Photo: stmaartennews.com

According to WINAIR, the first ATR aircraft will be delivered in March 2023.

The airline said this aircraft will provide service to Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Dominica and Port au Prince.

ATR aircraft will also service VI

The second ATR aircraft will be delivered in April 2023 and will provide service to Antigua, Beef Island (VI), St Lucia, Barbados, with further analysis/review of route expansion to other destinations ongoing.

WINAIR said its growth comes after six (6) years of ACMI-lease partnership with Air Antilles Airlines based in Guadeloupe and that ACMI-lease demonstrated the viability of the ATR operation and created this opportunity for WINAIR’s growth.

“Our partnership with Air Antilles will continue to evolve, strengthening WINAIR’s and Air Antilles’ route structure in the Caribbean, also providing commonality of fleet type” stated Mr Michael Cleaver, President & CEO, in a press release on November 17, 2022.

New era for WINAIR

WINAIR said the acquisition of the two ATR aircraft ushers in a new era for the National Carrier of St Maarten, “operating its own ATR aircraft thus enhancing our current business model.

“This preparation/ planning has taken one (1) year of intensive analysis and studies done, ensuring this was the best aircraft for WINAIR’s future growth. This strategic plan has the support and approval of the Shareholders and the Supervisory Board of Directors of WINAIR,” the press release stated.

WINAIR said it is working closely with Princess Juliana International Airport (PJIAE) and St Maarten Civil Aviation Authority (SMCAA) for the processes to continue and ensure all requirements of regulatory bodies and all regulations are fulfilled. It said safety and security is of the utmost importance; all processes require approval by SMCAA for the introduction of the ATR fleet type in St Maarten. 

“The expansion of WINAIR’s fleet requires additional qualified personnel, and local employees/ residents are being utilised wherever possible. Training of existing flight and maintenance personnel, as well as re-certification of additional staff is ongoing.”

WINAIR concluded that, with the introduction of the ATR aircraft, it is better equipped to respond to customer demand, changing market needs and support St Maarten and its stakeholders for the future.