GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands – Cayman Airways has expressed confidence in the success of its new nonstop service between Grand Cayman and Austin, Texas, citing strong visitor demand from the state, which remains one of the Cayman Islands’ most important tourism markets.
The route, which launched last weekend, marks the airline’s first direct connection between the Cayman Islands and the Texas capital.
Speaking at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport on Sunday, Tourism Minister Gary Rutty said Texas accounts for more than 11.5 per cent of all United States visitors to the Cayman Islands, with Austin contributing approximately 14 per cent of that market even before the introduction of direct air service.
Rutty described Austin as an important addition to Cayman Airways’ growing network of US destinations.
“Austin 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,” he said.
Cayman Airways Board Chairman David Ritch said the route represents a significant milestone for the national carrier and strengthens links with one of the fastest-growing travel markets in the United States.
“Today, we are not simply launching a new route; we are celebrating another important milestone in Cayman Airways’ journey,” Ritch said, noting that the airline also serves as an ambassador for Caymanian culture, hospitality and national pride.
Tourism Director Rosa Harris emphasized the importance of airlift development to the territory’s tourism industry and wider economy.
“Air connectivity is central to the survival of our tourism industry and ensures broader economic resilience for our country,” Harris said.
According to Cayman Airways, the inaugural flight departed Grand Cayman with a ceremonial water cannon salute and featured an onboard cultural presentation by the Swanky Kitchen Band and quadrille dancers.
The aircraft received a similar welcome on arrival in Austin, where local and Cayman Islands officials participated in a gate-side celebration highlighting Caymanian music, dance and culture.
Austin-Bergstrom International Airport Chief Executive Officer Ghizlane Badawi welcomed the new service, saying it provides travellers in Austin and Central Texas with direct access to one of the Caribbean’s premier destinations.
Cayman Airways Vice President Ivan Forbes said the new route is intended to strengthen people-to-people and business connections between the two destinations.
The seasonal nonstop service operates weekly on Sundays between May and August as part of Cayman Airways’ strategy to expand airlift capacity and support continued tourism growth.
