Sunrise Airways at St Kitts With Water Salute
Sunrise Airways has officially arrived in St. Kitts, marking a new chapter in regional air connectivity with its inaugural landing at Robert L. Bradshaw International Airport. The historic arrival was celebrated with a ceremonial water salute as the airline’s Embraer 120 aircraft touched down from Antigua, signaling the start of regular service to the twin-island Federation of St. Kitts and Nevis.
The first flight was welcomed with a brief but vibrant ceremony hosted by the tourism authorities, highlighting the nation’s culture and heritage. The occasion underscored the importance of expanded airlift for tourism, business, and regional travel throughout the Caribbean.
Regular Six-Day Service Strengthens Regional Links
Following the inaugural landing, Sunrise Airways is set to operate regular flights to St. Kitts six days per week, excluding Tuesdays. The schedule includes twice-daily service, significantly improving travel options for residents, visitors, and business travelers moving between Eastern Caribbean destinations.
The new service is designed to enhance seamless connectivity across the region, making it easier to travel between neighboring islands while supporting economic growth and tourism development.
- Twice-daily flights to St. Kitts
- Service operating six days per week
- Improved regional and intra-Caribbean connectivity
Route Network and Flight Operations
The Sunrise Airways route structure places Antigua at the center of its Eastern Caribbean operations. Flights begin in Antigua, make a stop in Dominica, return to Antigua, and then continue on to St. Kitts. This routing operates six days a week and is designed to maximize convenience for travelers across multiple islands.
In addition to St. Kitts, the airline also provides once-daily service from Antigua to Saint Lucia. This expanded network aims to offer smoother connections and greater flexibility for travelers navigating the Caribbean.
Key Routes Served by Sunrise Airways
- Antigua to Dominica
- Antigua to St. Kitts
- Antigua to Saint Lucia
By introducing these routes, Sunrise Airways is positioning itself as a key regional carrier focused on short-haul, efficient island travel.
Warm Welcome and Cultural Celebration
The inaugural arrival was marked by a warm reception from tourism officials and a cultural showcase reflecting the spirit of St. Kitts and Nevis. The pilot and crew were greeted at the airport, with the ceremony celebrating both aviation progress and national identity.
Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew attended the event and expressed his satisfaction with the enhanced air connectivity. He noted that the new service significantly increases intra-regional travel and strengthens the country’s links with neighboring islands.
Dr. Drew emphasized that continued improvements in airlift are essential for job creation, economic growth, and the upliftment of local communities. He also acknowledged the efforts of Minister of Tourism Marsha Henderson and her team for their ongoing work to expand access to the destination.
Government Support and Regional Significance
Minister of Foreign Affairs Denzil Douglas also shared remarks on the significance of the day, describing the arrival of Sunrise Airways as a positive step forward for the nation. He highlighted the importance of welcoming new airline partners that contribute to regional cooperation and mobility.
The launch reflects broader efforts by the government to attract reliable carriers and strengthen St. Kitts and Nevis’s position as a well-connected Caribbean destination.
Aircraft and Passenger Experience
Sunrise Airways is operating the St. Kitts route using the Embraer 120 twin-turboprop aircraft. Known for its reliability and suitability for regional routes, the aircraft accommodates more than 30 passengers and offers direct, non-stop service options.
This aircraft type allows the airline to provide efficient and comfortable travel while maintaining frequent schedules across short distances.
- Embraer 120 twin-turboprop aircraft
- Capacity for over 30 passengers
- Designed for short regional routes
Expanding Opportunities for Business and Tourism
According to Sunrise Airways’ Chief Commercial Officer, Claudio Boncamper, the daily services from Antigua to St. Kitts and Saint Lucia are expected to unlock new business opportunities while improving access for travelers. He noted that the airline is becoming the first Caribbean carrier to offer direct service from Antigua to these destinations.
The expanded service supports tourism growth, facilitates business travel, and encourages multi-island itineraries, benefiting both travelers and local economies.
Looking Ahead
The arrival of Sunrise Airways in St. Kitts represents more than a single flight. It signals a commitment to improved regional mobility, economic collaboration, and stronger ties between Caribbean nations. With regular service now in place, St. Kitts and Nevis is poised to benefit from increased visitor arrivals and enhanced regional engagement.
As Sunrise Airways continues to grow its network, travelers can expect greater flexibility, improved access, and new opportunities to explore the Caribbean with ease.