Cayman Airways launches nonstop Grand Cayman–Austin service with cultural celebrations in both cities
Key Points(5)
- capital of live music.
- The inaugural launch was marked by dual-city celebrations showcasing Caymanian culture, hospitality and music, with events held both at Owen Roberts International Airport in Grand Cayman and at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas.
- Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism and Trade Development, Hon.
- Gary Rutty, described the new route as an important step in strengthening tourism and economic ties between the Cayman Islands and the United States, particularly Texas, which remains a key source market for visitors.
- Chairman of the Board of Directors for Cayman Airways, David Ritch, said the new service represents more than expanded airlift, emphasizing the airline’s role in carrying Caymanian culture and identity to new destinations.
,Cayman Airways Limited (CAL) officially launched its new nonstop service between Grand Cayman and Austin, Texas, on Sunday, May 24, 2026, marking the airline’s first direct connection between the Cayman Islands and the U.S. capital of live music.
The inaugural launch was marked by dual-city celebrations showcasing Caymanian culture, hospitality and music, with events held both at Owen Roberts International Airport in Grand Cayman and at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport in Texas.
In Grand Cayman, the departure ceremony for flight KX330 featured a festive sendoff blending Caymanian and Tex-Mex-inspired offerings, along with performances by DJ Jason Rankin, the Swanky Kitchen Band, and appearances from cultural ambassadors, including Miss Universe Cayman Islands and the UCCI Dance Company’s Quadrille Dancers.
Deputy Premier and Minister for Tourism and Trade Development, Hon. Gary Rutty, described the new route as an important step in strengthening tourism and economic ties between the Cayman Islands and the United States, particularly Texas, which remains a key source market for visitors.
Chairman of the Board of Directors for Cayman Airways, David Ritch, said the new service represents more than expanded airlift, emphasizing the airline’s role in carrying Caymanian culture and identity to new destinations.
Director of Tourism Rosa Harris also highlighted the importance of air connectivity in supporting the country’s tourism industry and broader economic resilience, calling the Austin route a strategic addition to Cayman’s U.S. network.
The departing flight was given a water cannon salute in Grand Cayman, while passengers onboard were treated to an in-flight performance by the Swanky Kitchen Band and quadrille dancers en route to Austin.
On arrival in Texas, the aircraft was greeted with another water cannon salute and a gate ceremony featuring traditional Caymanian performances, refreshments and remarks from aviation and tourism officials. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport CEO Ghizlane Badawi welcomed Cayman Airways as a new international partner, calling the nonstop link a convenient gateway for Central Texas travelers to the Caribbean.
The return inaugural flight KX331 from Austin to Grand Cayman was met with a celebratory welcome in the airport arrival hall, including refreshments, souvenirs and a visit from Sir Turtle, organized by the Cayman Islands Department of Tourism.
The seasonal service will operate weekly on Sundays from May through August, expanding direct connectivity between the Cayman Islands and one of the fastest-growing travel markets in the United States.
