Caribbean Airlines is more than just an airline – it’s a vibrant symbol of the warmth, culture, and connectivity of the Caribbean region. As the national carrier of Trinidad and Tobago, while maintaining close ties with Jamaica, it has grown from a modest enterprise into the largest airline in the Caribbean Basin.
From Small Beginnings to Great Heights
Caribbean Airlines was established on September 27, 2006, in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. It emerged as the successor to BWIA West Indies Airways – the region’s leading airline – which had faced mounting difficulties, with negotiations between its unions and management collapsing. This prompted the Trinidad and Tobago government to approve the creation of a new airline under the leadership of Peter Davies, BWIA’s CEO at the time. On January 1, 2007, Caribbean Airlines took flight with its inaugural trip, inheriting some of BWIA’s assets and embracing the mission of "The Warmth of the Islands."
The early years were dedicated to finding its footing. Starting with just five Boeing 737-800 aircraft and 128 weekly departures to ten destinations, the airline quickly distinguished itself by introducing simplified one-way fares inclusive of taxes – a pioneering move that offered passengers a flexible pricing approach. Over the years, it expanded and modernized its operations, becoming a key player in the Caribbean aviation market. By 2019, it recorded its first profit of $4 million USD, a testament to its resilience and strategic growth.
A Caribbean Accent
Caribbean Airlines employs a hybrid business model, blending elements of a full-service carrier with cost-effective strategies. Jointly owned by the governments of Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, it serves as a vital link for the region, balancing commercial objectives with its role as a national carrier. With over 1,600 employees, it operates more than 600 weekly flights to 18 destinations across the Caribbean, North America, and South America.
The airline’s operational hub is Piarco International Airport in Trinidad, with a major base at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica. Caribbean Airlines caters to both tourists and business travelers, offering complimentary meals and in-flight entertainment – a rarity among regional carriers – alongside affordable fares. In 2018, it introduced Caribbean Plus (an enhanced economy class with extra legroom) and Caribbean Cafe (an onboard purchase option featuring local snacks), enhancing passenger convenience. The Caribbean Miles rewards program further fosters customer loyalty, reflecting a business model that prioritizes experience and accessibility.
Connecting Regions…
Caribbean Airlines weaves a network of routes spanning the Caribbean and key international hubs. From its Piarco base, it flies to destinations such as Port of Spain, Kingston, Bridgetown (Barbados), Georgetown (Guyana), and St. John’s (Antigua). Its North American routes include daily flights to Fort Lauderdale (launched in 2008), Miami, New York (JFK), and Toronto, serving both the local diaspora and tourists. In South America, Caracas, Venezuela, returned to the flight schedule with weekly services in 2023, signaling a post-pandemic recovery.
Once, Caribbean Airlines served only small Caribbean islands using regional aircraft. Today, it has solidified its presence on high-demand routes, ensuring reliable connectivity while staying true to its regional roots.
From Small Beginnings to Great Heights
Caribbean Airlines was established on September 27, 2006, in the Republic of Trinidad and Tobago. It emerged as the successor to BWIA West Indies Airways – the region’s leading airline – which had faced mounting difficulties, with negotiations between its unions and management collapsing. This prompted the Trinidad and Tobago government to approve the creation of a new airline under the leadership of Peter Davies, BWIA’s CEO at the time. On January 1, 2007, Caribbean Airlines took flight with its inaugural trip, inheriting some of BWIA’s assets and embracing the mission of "The Warmth of the Islands."
The early years were dedicated to finding its footing. Starting with just five Boeing 737-800 aircraft and 128 weekly departures to ten destinations, the airline quickly distinguished itself by introducing simplified one-way fares inclusive of taxes – a pioneering move that offered passengers a flexible pricing approach. Over the years, it expanded and modernized its operations, becoming a key player in the Caribbean aviation market. By 2019, it recorded its first profit of $4 million USD, a testament to its resilience and strategic growth.
A Caribbean Accent
Caribbean Airlines employs a hybrid business model, blending elements of a full-service carrier with cost-effective strategies. Jointly owned by the governments of Trinidad and Tobago and Jamaica, it serves as a vital link for the region, balancing commercial objectives with its role as a national carrier. With over 1,600 employees, it operates more than 600 weekly flights to 18 destinations across the Caribbean, North America, and South America.
The airline’s operational hub is Piarco International Airport in Trinidad, with a major base at Norman Manley International Airport in Kingston, Jamaica. Caribbean Airlines caters to both tourists and business travelers, offering complimentary meals and in-flight entertainment – a rarity among regional carriers – alongside affordable fares. In 2018, it introduced Caribbean Plus (an enhanced economy class with extra legroom) and Caribbean Cafe (an onboard purchase option featuring local snacks), enhancing passenger convenience. The Caribbean Miles rewards program further fosters customer loyalty, reflecting a business model that prioritizes experience and accessibility.
Connecting Regions…
Caribbean Airlines weaves a network of routes spanning the Caribbean and key international hubs. From its Piarco base, it flies to destinations such as Port of Spain, Kingston, Bridgetown (Barbados), Georgetown (Guyana), and St. John’s (Antigua). Its North American routes include daily flights to Fort Lauderdale (launched in 2008), Miami, New York (JFK), and Toronto, serving both the local diaspora and tourists. In South America, Caracas, Venezuela, returned to the flight schedule with weekly services in 2023, signaling a post-pandemic recovery.
Once, Caribbean Airlines served only small Caribbean islands using regional aircraft. Today, it has solidified its presence on high-demand routes, ensuring reliable connectivity while staying true to its regional roots.
From Past to Present
In its early days, Caribbean Airlines operated five Boeing 737-800s for short- and medium-haul routes and five De Havilland Canada Dash 8-300s to connect smaller Caribbean islands. In the late 2000s, turboprop ATR 72-500s were added to the fleet for regional services.
In 2022, the airline embarked on a major fleet overhaul. The older Boeing 737-800s were replaced by the modern 737-8 MAX family, featuring an upgraded two-class cabin with touchscreens and the Caribbean View streaming service. Regional operations are now handled by new ATR 72-600 turboprops. This transition reflects key priorities in modern aviation – improved fuel efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort – making Caribbean Airlines’ fleet one of the most advanced in the region.
A Fresh Coat of Paint
In 2020, Caribbean Airlines unveiled a bold new corporate identity, marking its first significant rebrand since 2007. This update preserved the airline’s emotional connection to the Caribbean while introducing a modern, vibrant aesthetic. The refreshed logo and livery debuted on an ATR 72-600 (9Y-TTI) and have since been applied across the entire fleet.
The authorship of this modern design isn’t officially credited, but it bears the mark of a skilled professional – perhaps one day we’ll learn their names. The project was part of the “Caribbean Identity” campaign, emphasizing national pride and connectivity. The iconic hummingbird, a symbol of agility and energy, remained the centerpiece of the style. However, its new, more contemporary depiction – featuring fluid, ribbon-like lines in vivid shades – highlights the rich vibrancy of Caribbean culture.
Interestingly, the livery differs between the regional ATRs and the mainline Boeing aircraft. While the logo and tail hummingbird are identical, the Boeing livery is deliberately minimalist, whereas the regional planes feature bright, multicolored ribbons along their sides, echoing the silhouette of the tail’s hummingbird lines.
The rebrand aimed to modernize the airline’s image while retaining its inherent warmth. The result is a striking, cohesive design that turns heads on any tarmac.
Fascinating Facts
Few people know that Caribbean Airlines has its own song – a sort of anthem. Titled “Lorraine,” it’s a Trinidadian calypso melody by the group Explainer, adapted to celebrate the airline’s spirit.
The airline boasts numerous accolades. It was named “Caribbean’s Leading Airline” by the World Travel Awards from 2010 to 2019 and “Leading Airline Brand” from 2017 to 2021, underscoring its dominance in the region.
Soar with Caribbean Soul
Caribbean Airlines is a dynamic fusion of history, innovation, and national pride. From its BWIA origins to its current status as the Caribbean’s largest airline, it continues to unite people with a unique flair. Whether you’re flying on a sleek Boeing 737-8 MAX or a regional ATR, the airline’s warmth shines through – both in its service and its stunning new look. The next time you’re planning a Caribbean getaway, don’t miss the chance to fly with this regional gem.
In its early days, Caribbean Airlines operated five Boeing 737-800s for short- and medium-haul routes and five De Havilland Canada Dash 8-300s to connect smaller Caribbean islands. In the late 2000s, turboprop ATR 72-500s were added to the fleet for regional services.
In 2022, the airline embarked on a major fleet overhaul. The older Boeing 737-800s were replaced by the modern 737-8 MAX family, featuring an upgraded two-class cabin with touchscreens and the Caribbean View streaming service. Regional operations are now handled by new ATR 72-600 turboprops. This transition reflects key priorities in modern aviation – improved fuel efficiency and enhanced passenger comfort – making Caribbean Airlines’ fleet one of the most advanced in the region.
A Fresh Coat of Paint
In 2020, Caribbean Airlines unveiled a bold new corporate identity, marking its first significant rebrand since 2007. This update preserved the airline’s emotional connection to the Caribbean while introducing a modern, vibrant aesthetic. The refreshed logo and livery debuted on an ATR 72-600 (9Y-TTI) and have since been applied across the entire fleet.
The authorship of this modern design isn’t officially credited, but it bears the mark of a skilled professional – perhaps one day we’ll learn their names. The project was part of the “Caribbean Identity” campaign, emphasizing national pride and connectivity. The iconic hummingbird, a symbol of agility and energy, remained the centerpiece of the style. However, its new, more contemporary depiction – featuring fluid, ribbon-like lines in vivid shades – highlights the rich vibrancy of Caribbean culture.
Interestingly, the livery differs between the regional ATRs and the mainline Boeing aircraft. While the logo and tail hummingbird are identical, the Boeing livery is deliberately minimalist, whereas the regional planes feature bright, multicolored ribbons along their sides, echoing the silhouette of the tail’s hummingbird lines.
The rebrand aimed to modernize the airline’s image while retaining its inherent warmth. The result is a striking, cohesive design that turns heads on any tarmac.
Fascinating Facts
Few people know that Caribbean Airlines has its own song – a sort of anthem. Titled “Lorraine,” it’s a Trinidadian calypso melody by the group Explainer, adapted to celebrate the airline’s spirit.
The airline boasts numerous accolades. It was named “Caribbean’s Leading Airline” by the World Travel Awards from 2010 to 2019 and “Leading Airline Brand” from 2017 to 2021, underscoring its dominance in the region.
Soar with Caribbean Soul
Caribbean Airlines is a dynamic fusion of history, innovation, and national pride. From its BWIA origins to its current status as the Caribbean’s largest airline, it continues to unite people with a unique flair. Whether you’re flying on a sleek Boeing 737-8 MAX or a regional ATR, the airline’s warmth shines through – both in its service and its stunning new look. The next time you’re planning a Caribbean getaway, don’t miss the chance to fly with this regional gem.