Acquisition of ATR 42-500 aircraft
Simpson Bay, November 17, 2022 – WINAIR is pleased to announce the acquisition of two (2) ATR 42-500 series aircraft. The first ATR aircraft will be delivered in March 2023. This aircraft will provide service to Aruba, Bonaire, Curacao, Dominica, and Port au Prince. The second ATR aircraft will be delivered in April 2023, this aircraft will provide service to Antigua, Tortola, St. Lucia, and Barbados, with further analysis/review of route expansion to other destinations ongoing.
WINAIR’s growth comes after six (6) years of ACMI-lease partnership with Air Antilles Airlines based in Guadeloupe. The 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.
This ushers in a new era for WINAIR, 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.
WINAIR 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. Safety and security are 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 utilized wherever possible. Training of existing flight and maintenance personnel, as well as re-certification of additional staff, is ongoing.
With the introduction of the ATR aircraft WINAIR is better equipped to respond to customer demand, and changing market needs and support St. Maarten and our stakeholders for the future.
