Belize operator Tropic Air has acquired a twin-engine, 19-passenger Beech 1900D in a deal worth close to US$3million. Delivery is scheduled for December, with the first revenue flight expected early in the new year. Initially, the aircraft will be placed on current international routes to Cancun, Roatan and Flores, and by using the Beech, flying time to those destinations will be significantly reduced. The operator currently flies Caravans on scheduled and chartered routes.

“The 1900D is a fantastic aircraft. It is fast, pressurised, roomy and has a stand-up cabin,” says company president John Greif III. “This is a significant investment for Tropic Air, and we are excited to be the first in Belize to fly it. We also hope to buy more.”

CEO Steve Schulte adds: “Adding a new aircraft type with new capabilities also means opportunities to look at new regional markets to add to our network, and we intend to do that. The 1900D brings cities such as Guatemala City and San Pedro Sula within a comfortable flying time for our passengers. This investment underscores our commitment to Belize and to our confidence in tourism.”