Caribbean News Now!

By Ray Chickrie
Caribbean News Now contributor

PARAMARIBO, Suriname -- Surinam Airways (SLM), in collaboration with Caricom Airways, in April will reintroduce domestic service to various destinations in Suriname using three aircraft belonging to Caricom Airways: two Islanders and a Cessna 206, according to a SLM press release last week. Within two months a larger aircraft will be added to the fleet, which can accommodate more passengers, according to Caricom Airways CEO Steven Chin-a-Kwie.

One of the aircraft has been painted in SLM livery and operational control will remain in the hands of Caricom Airways. SLM will periodically perform quality checks on the aircraft and audit Caricom Airways. Passengers will eventually be able to book these domestic flights through SLM’s worldwide booking, which the airline hopes will spur the tourism industry. This joint venture includes also MET Tours, a subsidiary of Surinam Airways.

According to Chin-a-Kwie, Caricom Airways will retain its identity “but we have joined SLM's quality program and fly with their colours."

Chin-A-Kwie founded Caricom Airways in 2004 and he does not exclude a regional operation in the future for his company.

Chin-a-Kwie said, “We are two Surinamese airlines, now we found reasons and ways to team up; one mission within one vision and that is to connect Caribbean Community (CARICOM).”

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