CAL looking at smaller jets

(CNS): Cayman Airways Limited (CAL) is negotiating with a number of companies for the acquisition of two 70-seater jet planes, to be brought on line this winter season, Sister Islands MLA Moses Kirkconnell has said. The airline is looking at new routes that the smaller planes could service, as well as flights to Cayman Brac, which would provide more tools to attract tourists and build the economy, he said.

With the current rise on fuel prices, airlines are sizing planes with routes, and CAL was following suit, Kirkconnell told about 200 people gathered at a public meeting outside Kirkconnell’s Market on Cayman Brac Thursday night. He said the management of CAL had been directed to look at how to meet the needs of Cayman Brac and initially looked at a turbo-prop plane, the Saab 2000. However, with oil prices climbing every day, it was decided that this was no longer the best option.

The Board and management of CAL was now looking at 70-seater jetsto service routes between the Brac and South Florida, most likely Miami, starting December, so that private business could build on the island. With the new planes, the Brac would be less isolated and would be a better destination and a lot better place to do business, Kirkconnell maintained.