(CNS): There are high hopes of success for Cayman Airways’ new Austin route, which launched last weekend, as the city lies at the heart of the highest performing state for providing visitors to the Cayman Islands. Speaking at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS) on Sunday, Tourism Minister Gary Rutty noted that more than 11.5% of all US visitors to Cayman come from Texas, and Austin accounts for roughly 14% of all Texans visiting the islands, “and that was before the convenience of this new, nonstop service”.
At the celebrations before the inaugural outbound flight departed from Owen Roberts International Airport, Rutty said Austin was an important addition to Cayman Airways’ network of US gateways. “It is known for its culture, creativity, technology and music, and establishing this direct connection underscores that the Cayman Islands continue to grow as a world-class destination with global appeal.”
This is the airline’s first nonstop service between Austin and the Cayman Islands, and CAL Board Chair David Ritch said the new route represents more than just a new flight.
“Today, we are not simply launching a new route; we are celebrating another important milestone in Cayman Airways’ journey, one that strengthens our connection to one of the fastest-growing US travel markets while proudly carrying the spirit of the Cayman Islands into another exciting destination. Cayman Airways has never been just about transporting passengers from Point A to Point B. We also carry Caymanian culture, Caymanian hospitality and Caymanian pride wherever we fly,” he said.
Tourism Director Rosa Harris said the new Austin service reflects the continued importance of strategic airlift development for the Cayman Islands’ tourism industry. “Air service development is one of the most important things that we do because air connectivity is central to the survival of our tourism industry and ensures broader economic resilience for our country.”
According to a release from the airline, the flight received a ceremonial water cannon salute before departure from Grand Cayman, and while Captain Timmy Grizzel steered the plane towards Austin, passengers onboard were treated to a surprise in-flight performance by Swanky Kitchen Band and the quadrille dancers, adding a distinctly Caymanian touch to the historic journey.
On arrival at AUS, the flight was welcomed with another water cannon salute and a gate celebration featuring traditional Caymanian music and dance performances, refreshments, souvenirs and remarks from Cayman Islands and Austin officials. AUS CEO Ghizlane Badawi said the partnership offers Austin and Central Texas travellers a direct and convenient gateway to one of the Caribbean’s most spectacular destinations. CAL VP Ivan Forbes said the route was about building connections.
The new seasonal nonstop summer service between Grand Cayman and Austin operates weekly on Sundays, May through August, as part of Cayman Airways’ continued commitment to strengthening airlift and supporting tourism growth for the Cayman Islands, the release stated.
