The sun-kissed shores of Antigua and Barbuda played host to a momentous occasion as Silver Airways, America’s premier independent regional airline, unveiled its new service connecting San Juan, Puerto Rico, to the V.C Bird International Airport in Antigua.
The launch of this service, strategically timed for the festive holidays and the commencement of the 2024 Winter Season, marked a significant milestone in the region’s aviation landscape.
Inaugural festivities: From Puerto Rico to Antigua
The celebrations commenced in Puerto Rico, where the inaugural flight took flight from the Luis Munoz Marin International Airport.
Charmaine Spencer, Director of Tourism for the Caribbean Market and Latin America at the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, joined forces with Silver Airways’ Head of Caribbean Operations, Wayne Carby, and Digital Marketing Coordinator Isabella Wolter to ceremoniously kick off this exciting new route.
Water cannon salute and warm antiguan welcome
As the Silver Airways aircraft touched down on Antiguan soil, it received a traditional water cannon salute, setting the stage for a warm Antiguan welcome.
Passengers and crew disembarked to the sounds of cultural performers and enticing culinary offerings, embodying the rich cultural tapestry of Antigua and Barbuda.
Ribbon-cutting and VIP reception
At the V.C. Bird International Airport’s VIP Lounge, Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation, and Investment, Charles Fernandez, presided over a ribbon-cutting ceremony and a grand welcome reception for the airline.
Speaking at the event, Minister Fernandez emphasized the importance of Silver Airways’ presence, stating, that Silver Airways is a long-awaited welcomed addition, as they prepare for a busy winter season.
Silver Airways’ CEO shares enthusiasm
Silver Airways’ Chief Executive Officer, Steve Rossum, expressed his delight at the reintroduction of Silver Airways service into Antigua.
He highlighted the significance of this move, stating, “We are delighted to announce the re-initiation of Silver Airways service into Antigua.”
“We are returning to the friendly island of Antigua after many years, with service previously provided by our sister airline Seaborne Airlines, and we are so excited to be back in paradise with a newer, more modern fleet of ATR aircraft,” he added.
“This new service expands our presence in the Caribbean and will offer more connectivity and opportunities with our partner airlines and provide our passengers with safe, reliable, and customer-friendly service to their travel destination,” Rossum said.
Enhancing Regional Connectivity
In addition to serving Antigua, this new route will also provide seamless connections to Silver’s extensive network throughout the Caribbean and destinations in the United States and worldwide through Silver’s codeshare and interline ticketing partners.
Operations to Antigua will be available four times a week starting November 16, 2023, using the ATR-42 aircraft.
Flight schedule
Silver Airways will operate flights from San Juan (SJU) to Antigua (ANU) on Sunday, Monday, Thursday, and Friday.
The return route from Antigua (ANU) to San Juan (SJU) will operate on Monday, Tuesday, Friday, and Saturday, ensuring convenient options for travelers eager to explore the tropical paradise of Antigua and its surrounding destinations.
