Cayman Airways

Cayman Airways is not just a national carrier, but a true symbol of the Cayman Islands, renowned for its warm Caribbean hospitality since 1968. Adorned with the famous Sir Turtle logo, the company's aircraft connect the sunny archipelago with key metropolitan areas in the USA, Central America, and neighbouring Caribbean countries. The airline takes pride in its role as a reliable bridge connecting the islands to the outside world and strives to turn every flight into the beginning of a carefree holiday for its passengers.

Features and Advantages of the Airline:

One of the main distinguishing features of Cayman Airways is the unique atmosphere on board. Travellers often note the friendliness of the crew and the signature tradition — a complimentary welcome beverage served during the flight, immersing passengers in a relaxed island mood even before landing. Additionally, the company is known for one of the most generous baggage policies in the region, which is particularly valuable for tourists embarking on long trips or shopping excursions.

The airline's fleet consists of modern Boeing 737 MAX 8 liners, which serve long-haul routes, and smaller turboprop aircraft (Saab 340B+ and DHC-6 Twin Otter) for short inter-island flights. This maintains stable connections with destinations such as Cayman Brac and the picturesque Little Cayman, ensuring mobility for locals and accessibility to resorts for guests.

The carrier's route network is focused on popular tourist and business destinations. Regular flights connect the islands with major US cities, including New York, sunny Miami Beach, Tampa, as well as distinct Los Angeles and Denver. In the Caribbean region, important destinations are Kingston and Montego Bay in Jamaica, as well as Panama City, making the airline a convenient choice for complex itineraries across the region.

Contacts and Support for Cayman Airways

To plan a trip, manage a booking, or clarify flight details, passengers can use several convenient channels to contact the airline. The support service operates primarily in English and is ready to assist with questions related to flights to the Cayman Islands and other destinations in the route network.

Main Communication Channels:

• Official Website: www.caymanairways.com
• Reservation Centre (Head Office): +1 345 949 2311
• Toll-free line (USA calls only): 1-800-422-9626
• Email for Ticket Reservations: reshelp@caymanairways.net
• Customer Support Email: customerrelations@caymanairways.net

Social Media

The airline actively maintains pages on social networks, where it publishes schedule updates, information on flight delays, and special offers for tourists:

• Facebook
• Instagram
• X (Twitter)

Local Offices and Representatives

The carrier's main headquarters is located on Grand Cayman. Airline representatives are also available at check-in counters at departure airports during flight operations.

• Head Office Address: 91 Owen Roberts Drive, George Town, Grand Cayman.
• Ticket Sales Office: Located at Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM).

Important: Contact phone numbers and email addresses may change. We strongly recommend checking the current information in the "Contact Us" section on the official airline website before travelling.

A journey with Cayman Airways begins with good news: the carrier is known for one of the most generous baggage policies in the Caribbean region. While many airlines are switching to paid baggage, the national carrier of the Cayman Islands strives to maintain the comfort of its passengers, allowing them to take more necessary items for a perfect holiday.

Hand Luggage: Essentials at Hand

On all airline flights, whether a short hop to Little Cayman or an international flight, passengers can carry one piece of hand luggage free of charge. The bag's dimensions must not exceed standard sizes (approximately 23 x 35 x 56 cm) so that it fits freely in the overhead bin. Additionally, one small personal item is allowed: a handbag, briefcase, laptop in a case, or a small camera. These items must be placed under the seat in front of you.

Checked Baggage: Generous Allowances

The main advantage of Cayman Airways is the ability to check baggage for free on most international jet flights. This is particularly relevant for tourists departing from cities such as Miami Beach, New York, or Tampa.

• Economy Class: Typically allows for two pieces of baggage weighing up to 23 kg (50 lbs) each without extra charge.
• Business Class: Passengers can expect an increased allowance — up to three pieces of baggage weighing up to 23 kg each.

However, an important nuance should be considered for inter-island flights. Flights operated by Twin Otter aircraft (for example, the route between Grand Cayman and Cayman Brac) have stricter limitations due to the small size of the aircraft. In such cases, it is recommended to verify the allowable weight in advance, as it may be reduced to 15-23 kg per passenger depending on the flight load.

Excess Baggage and Fees

If your suitcases exceed the allowable limits for weight (from 23 to 32 kg) or size (more than 157 cm in the sum of three dimensions), an additional fee will be required. Overweight fees vary depending on the route. Any piece of baggage weighing more than 45 kg (99 lbs) is not accepted for carriage and must be processed as cargo.

Sports Equipment and Musical Instruments

Given the popularity of diving on the islands, the airline is lenient regarding the transport of equipment. A bag with diving gear can often replace one of the free baggage pieces if it falls within the weight limits. The same rule often applies to golf bags (one bag may count as a standard piece of baggage). Special fixed rates apply for surfboards and bicycles, as they fall into the category of oversized cargo.

Small musical instruments (violins, flutes) can be carried in the cabin as hand luggage if they fit in the overhead bin. For large instruments (cellos, guitars), you may need to purchase a separate seat in the cabin or check them in a hard case with a Limited Release Tag signed.

Prohibited and Restricted Items

For safety reasons, it is strictly forbidden to transport explosives, flammable liquids, gases, and toxic materials in any type of baggage. Pay special attention to lithium-ion batteries (power banks) and electronic cigarettes: they must be in hand luggage only and never placed in the cargo hold. On flights from the USA (for example, from Denver or Los Angeles), strict TSA rules regarding liquids in hand luggage apply (the 100 ml rule).

Packing Tips

To ensure your trip to George Town or a connecting flight to Kingston goes smoothly, we recommend weighing your suitcases at home before leaving for the airport. Be sure to remove old baggage tags and attach a new one with your name, phone number, and hotel address. Always keep valuable items, documents, medication, and keys with you in your hand luggage.

Travelling with pets on Cayman Airways flights requires careful preparation, but the carrier does its utmost to ensure your companion feels comfortable. The airline understands that pets are part of the family and permits their transport on both short inter-island flights and international routes. However, given the strict veterinary laws of the Cayman Islands, passengers should carefully study the rules for importing animals into the destination country before purchasing a ticket.

Transport Options

In the Aircraft Cabin (Hand Luggage)

This option is ideal for small cats and dogs that can travel next to their owner.

• Carrier Dimensions: A soft container must fit freely under the seat in front of you. Recommended dimensions should not exceed 58 cm in length and 33 cm in width.
• Maximum Weight: The total weight of the animal together with the container must not exceed 10 kg (22 lbs).
• Permitted Animals: Only cats and small dog breeds.
• Limit per Passenger: One passenger may transport only one container.
• Flight Quota: The number of animals in the cabin is strictly limited (usually up to 2-4 pets per entire aircraft), so booking a spot is necessary as early as possible.

In the Baggage Hold (Checked Baggage)

If your pet is too large for the cabin, it can travel in a special heated and ventilated compartment of the aircraft.

• Cage Requirements: Use only rigid containers approved by IATA (plastic with metal bolts). The cage must be spacious enough for the animal to stand, turn around, and lie down in a natural position.
• Weight Limits: Maximum weight of the animal with the cage is up to 45 kg (99 lbs).
• Temperature Restrictions: For safety reasons, animals are not accepted for transport if the air temperature at the departure airport (e.g., Miami Beach or Tampa) or arrival airport exceeds 29°C (85°F) or falls below 7°C (45°F).
• Container Preparation: The bottom must be lined with absorbent material, and a secured water container inside is mandatory.

As Cargo (Cayman Airways Cargo)

For particularly large dogs or animals travelling without their owner.

• When Required: If the weight of the animal with the cage exceeds 45 kg or if the breed is not permitted in baggage.
• Special Requirements: Processing takes place through the cargo terminal; a separate air waybill is required.
• Procedure: It is necessary to contact the Cargo department in advance, as the acceptance and release procedure differs from the passenger terminal.

Necessary Documents

Gathering documents is a critically important stage, especially when flying to George Town, as the Cayman Islands are a rabies-free zone.

• Import Permit: A mandatory document from the Cayman Islands Department of Agriculture for importing any animal.
• Veterinary Passport: With current records about the owner and the pet.
• Health Certificate: An official document issued by a veterinarian (usually no earlier than 14 days before departure; timelines may be stricter for international flights).
• Vaccination: Valid rabies vaccination and comprehensive age-appropriate vaccinations.
• Rabies Antibody Titer: A laboratory test may be required for entry to the islands from certain countries.

Cost of Services

Payment for pet transport is not included in the free baggage allowance and is charged separately at the check-in counter.

• Transport in Cabin: Approximately 50 to 100 USD per flight segment (depending on the destination).
• Transport in Baggage Hold: Approximately 75 to 150 USD per segment.
• Domestic Flights: Flights between islands (e.g., to Cayman Brac) are usually cheaper than international ones.

Preparation Tips

• Cage Training: Allow your pet to get used to the carrier several weeks before flying from New York or another city.
• Feeding: Do not feed the animal a heavy meal less than 4 hours before departure to avoid motion sickness.
• Reducing Stress: Put a favourite toy or an item with the owner's scent in the cage. Veterinarians usually do not recommend giving sedatives, as they can affect blood pressure at altitude.
• Tags: Be sure to attach a tag with the pet's name and your contact phone number to the collar and the cage.

Restrictions

• Brachycephalic Breeds: Dogs and cats with flattened faces (Pugs, Bulldogs, Persian cats) are often not accepted for transport in the baggage hold due to the risk of respiratory problems.
• Age: Puppies and kittens under 8 weeks old are usually not permitted to fly.
• Service Dogs: Guide dogs and emotional support animals may be transported in the cabin free of charge with appropriate certificates, but the airline must be notified at least 48 hours in advance.
• Prohibited Species: The airline does not transport rodents, reptiles, or wild animals in passenger cabins.

Please note: Rules may change depending on the aircraft type and seasonality. We strongly recommend contacting the Cayman Airways contact centre to confirm the reservation of a space for your pet immediately after purchasing a ticket.

Sir Turtle Rewards Loyalty Programme

For frequent travellers, the airline offers its own bonus programme called Sir Turtle Rewards. This system, named after the famous turtle mascot, allows passengers to accumulate miles for every flight taken. Participation in the programme turns ordinary flights into point accumulation, which can be exchanged for privileges that make travelling around the Caribbean even more comfortable and beneficial.

Membership Levels and Privileges

The more often you fly, the higher your status in the system. The programme includes three elite levels, each of which opens access to exclusive services:

• Silver: The first step of elite status. Members receive the right to priority check-in for the flight and the opportunity to carry additional baggage beyond the standard allowance, which is especially convenient for lovers of shopping and active holidays.
• Gold: Opens access to premium service. The main advantage is an invitation to the branded Sir Turtle Club business lounge at Owen Roberts International Airport, as well as priority boarding on the aircraft.
• Platinum: The highest level for the most loyal passengers. Includes the maximum package of privileges: from guaranteed seat reservations on busy flights to free class upgrades (subject to availability) and the highest priority on the waiting list.

How to Earn Miles

The balance is topped up automatically after every flight with Cayman Airways. The number of miles awarded depends on the booking class and flight distance.

• International Flights: Trips to major cities such as Miami Beach, Tampa, or New York bring a substantial amount of points to the member's account.
• Domestic Flights: Even short flights between islands, for example, to picturesque Cayman Brac or secluded Little Cayman, allow you to receive a guaranteed minimum of miles.
• Class Bonuses: Business class passengers accumulate miles faster thanks to higher accrual coefficients (up to 150% of the actual distance).

How to Use Accumulated Points

Sir Turtle Rewards points are your currency for new trips and improved comfort:

• Award Tickets: Exchange miles for free flights to George Town or any other destinations in the airline's network (the passenger pays only taxes and fees).
• Class Upgrades: Use miles to upgrade from Economy to Business class to enjoy spacious seats and signature beverages in a more relaxed setting.
• Gifts for Loved Ones: The programme allows you to issue award tickets not only for yourself but also for family members or friends.

Programme Features

It is important to note that Cayman Airways is an independent carrier and is not part of global alliances (such as Star Alliance or SkyTeam). Earning and using Sir Turtle Rewards miles is possible exclusively on flights of this airline. This makes the programme a unique niche product, perfectly suited for those who frequently visit the Cayman Islands and neighbouring regions.

Joining the Club

You can become a member of Sir Turtle Rewards for free by filling out a simple form on the official airline website. A membership number is assigned immediately, so you can start accumulating miles from your very first ticket booking.

On board Cayman Airways, a special atmosphere of "Caymankind" prevails — a philosophy of sincere Caribbean hospitality. Whether you are flying a short route between islands or embarking on a long journey to the USA, the airline strives to ensure comfort and cosiness for every passenger. The carrier's fleet, consisting of modern liners and small turboprop aircraft, offers various levels of service adapted to the flight duration.

Classes of Service

The airline offers two main classes of service on its international jet flights: Economy and Business. On small aviation flights (inter-island), only Economy class is available due to the structural features of the aircraft.

• Business Class (Sir Turtle Club): This premium class is available on flights operated by Boeing 737-8 aircraft. Passengers receive access to exclusive privileges: priority check-in and boarding, access to the "Sir Turtle Club" business lounge at George Town airport, as well as an increased baggage allowance. The cabin features wide leather seats in a 2x2 configuration, providing more personal space and comfort, which is especially important when flying to New York or Denver.
• Economy Class: The Economy class cabin is distinguished by cleanliness, bright design, and friendly service. Seats are usually arranged in a 3x3 layout. The seat pitch is considered one of the most comfortable among regional carriers, allowing passengers to relax during the flight, for example, from the city of Miami Beach or Tampa.
• Cayman Express (Inter-island Service): On routes connecting Grand Cayman with the islands of Cayman Brac and Little Cayman, small Twin Otter and Saab 340B+ aircraft are used. There is no division into classes here, but every passenger gets a window or aisle seat (there are no middle seats), guaranteeing stunning views of the Caribbean Sea.

Food and Beverages

Gastronomic service on board is the pride of the airline. A key highlight is the famous Signature Island Punch, which is offered free of charge to all passengers, even in Economy class. This is considered a symbolic start to the holiday.

The menu depends on the flight duration and time of day:

• Long flights: On routes lasting more than 2-3 hours (for example, to Los Angeles or New York), passengers are served full hot meals.
• Short flights: On flights to Kingston, Havana, or Miami, light snacks and a wide selection of non-alcoholic beverages (juices, sodas, coffee, tea) are offered.
• Business Class: Passengers are offered an expanded menu with a choice of hot dishes served on crockery, as well as a complimentary bar with a wide selection of beverages without limitations.

Entertainment and Connectivity

Modern entertainment systems are being introduced on board the new Boeing 737 MAX 8 aircraft. However, on many flights, the airline adheres to a classic approach. Passengers are offered the colourful in-flight magazine Horizons, telling about the culture and attractions of the Cayman Islands.

It is recommended to download movies or music to your personal devices (tablets, smartphones) in advance, especially if you are flying with children. USB ports for charging gadgets are available in most seats on the new aircraft.

Special Services

Cayman Airways pays great attention to passengers with special needs, striving to make flying accessible to everyone.

• For Children: The airline offers an Unaccompanied Minor service for children aged 5 to 14 travelling without adults. Families with small children are entitled to priority boarding.
• For Passengers with Reduced Mobility: Wheelchairs and assistance with boarding/disembarking are provided. A request for special assistance must be made at least 48 hours before departure. Flight attendants are always ready to help stow hand luggage and ensure comfort en route.

The route network of Cayman Airways is built around its key hub — the city of George Town, which serves as the main air gateway to the archipelago. The carrier ensures reliable connections with major US metropolises and popular Caribbean destinations, allowing tourists to easily reach sunny resorts. Below is a list of the airline's most active routes over the past three weeks.

Travelling to the Caribbean with the national carrier of the Cayman Islands will be even more pleasant if you consider a few nuances in advance. We have gathered useful recommendations to help save your budget, choose the best seats, and pass through airport formalities without unnecessary stress.

Best Time to Book

The Cayman Islands is a popular year-round destination, but ticket prices can vary significantly depending on the season. The highest demand (and, accordingly, fares) falls on the period from mid-December to April, when tourists from the USA and Europe flock to warm George Town, escaping the cold. To catch favourable prices on flights from cities like New York or Denver, we recommend booking tickets 2–3 months before departure. If your schedule is flexible, pay attention to flights in the "low season" (from May to November): at this time, the airline often offers more attractive fares.

Hunting for Discounts and Promotions

Cayman Airways regularly holds seasonal sales, especially on popular routes from Florida (for example, from the cities of Miami Beach and Tampa). To ensure you don't miss special offers, it is worth subscribing to the newsletter on the official airline website. Often, the most advantageous "Flash Sales" fares are valid for only a few days and are available only through direct booking. Also, follow the carrier's social media, where promo codes are sometimes published for holidays.

Online Check-in: Save Time

Do not waste precious minutes of your holiday in queues. Web check-in for Cayman Airways flights opens 24 hours before departure. This is especially convenient if you are flying with hand luggage only: you can print your boarding pass at home or save it on your smartphone and proceed immediately to security screening. If you have baggage, use the "Bag Drop" counters at the airport, which work faster than regular check-in counters. Remember that check-in for international flights closes 60 minutes before departure.

Seat Selection Secrets

A flight over the Caribbean Sea is an excursion in itself, so choosing a Window Seat is strategically important. When approaching the island of Cayman Brac or landing on Grand Cayman, stunning views of turquoise lagoons and coral reefs open up. If you value legroom, consider paying extra for seats in the front rows of Economy class or at emergency exits. Passengers planning a short connection, for example, for a flight to Kingston, are better off choosing seats in the front part of the cabin to leave the aircraft first.

Travel Insurance

Although the airline is known for its reliability, the Caribbean climate can be unpredictable, especially during hurricane season (summer and early autumn). We strongly recommend taking out comprehensive travel insurance, covering not only medical expenses but also possible flight delays or cancellations due to weather conditions. This will ensure your peace of mind and financial protection in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Digital Services and Booking Management

For maximum convenience, use the mobile version of the airline's website or the "Manage My Booking" function. Here you can not only choose a seat or order a special meal but also promptly track the status of your flight. If you are flying a complex route, for example, via Panama City or Los Angeles, be sure to check the accuracy of your contact details in the booking so that the airline can contact you in case of schedule changes.

The history of the national carrier of the Cayman Islands began long before its official establishment. The company's origins go back to 1955, when Cayman Brac Airways was founded — a small airline providing a vital link between Grand Cayman and the island of Cayman Brac. The official birthday of the modern Cayman Airways is considered to be 7 August 1968, when it began its operations, taking the baton from its predecessor.

Formation and Path to Independence

In the first years of its existence, the airline worked in close partnership with the Costa Rican carrier LACSA. However, the government of the Cayman Islands saw strategic importance in having a fully independent airline. By 1977, the government had purchased all shares, making Cayman Airways a fully state-owned enterprise. This became a turning point, allowing it to independently determine its development strategy and expand the geography of flights, turning the local airport in the city of George Town into a true international hub.

Era of Jet Flights and Route Map Expansion

In the late 1970s, the airline entered the era of jet aviation by acquiring its first BAC 1-11 liner. This allowed for the launch of regular international flights. One of the first and most important destinations was Kingston, strengthening ties with neighbours in the Caribbean. Shortly thereafter, flights to the USA began, opening the "golden gates" for tourism: the route to Miami Beach became legendary and remains the busiest in the carrier's network to this day.

In the 1980s, the fleet was replenished with Boeing 727-200 aircraft, which allowed new cities such as Tampa to be added to the schedule. It was during this period that the airline finally formed its image as a hospitable Caribbean carrier, and the famous "Sir Turtle" logo, created by Suzy Soto, became a recognisable symbol of the islands worldwide.

Fleet Modernisation and Innovation

Over time, Cayman Airways consistently updated its fleet, switching to more economical and comfortable Boeing 737 models. An important stage was the introduction of the Boeing 737-300 series, and then the 737-800, which served faithfully for many years. To ensure connection with the small island of Little Cayman, where the runway has limitations, the company retained and modernised its fleet of Twin Otter turboprop aircraft, known for their reliability in all conditions.

Modern Stage: New Horizons

The most significant event of recent years was the large-scale fleet renewal programme, which began in 2018. Cayman Airways became the first Caribbean operator of the newest Boeing 737 MAX 8 liners. These high-tech aircraft allowed the airline not only to improve environmental performance and passenger comfort but also to make a real breakthrough in flight range.

Thanks to the new liners, direct non-stop flights were opened to distant US cities such as Denver and Los Angeles. The flight to Los Angeles became a historic achievement, gaining the status of one of the longest commercial flights in the Caribbean region. Today, the airline continues to develop, connecting the islands with metropolises such as New York and Panama City, remaining true to its mission — to deliver the spirit of the Cayman Islands to every corner where its planes fly.