12/31/2006: BWIA Becomes Caribbean Airlines

DALLAS — Today, in 2006, Caribbean Airlines (BW) replaced British West Indies Airways (BWIA) after 66 years of operations.

BWIA began operating on November 27, 1940, with a single Lockheed L-18 Lodestar (VP-TAE) flying between Trinidad and Barbados. Additionally, Tobago was served three times a week.

In 1947, British South American Airways (BSAA) acquired BWIA. BWIA became a subsidiary when BOAC took over BSAA. BOAC eventually sold its shares in BWIA to the government of Trinidad and Tobago, making them the sole owners in 1967.

Expansion and Losses

From then on, BWIA experienced significant growth and expansion. The fleet was modernized in 1964 with the introduction of jet aircraft, including the Boeing 727. In 1980, the Lockheed L1011-500 Tristar served the flagship London route.

Despite being a major airline in the Caribbean, BWIA faced substantial financial losses. On September 8, 2006, the management decided to discontinue operations, despite repeated financial support from the government.

Caribbean Airlines Is Born

Caribbean Airlines was announced as the new state-owned airline after BWIA ceased operations. Caribbean Airlines began its services with a fleet consisting of six Boeing 737-800s and a single A340-300.

On May 27, 2011, Caribbean Airlines took full control of Air Jamaica (JM). However, to reduce costs, the airline had to streamline its operations. In early 2016, it returned its two Boeing 767-300ERs and discontinued its only long-haul service to London Gatwick (LGW).

Currently, BW operates with a fleet of seven ATR 72-600s and nine Boeing 737-8s, with three more on order. The 737-8s have replaced the 737-800s. The airline serves destinations across the Caribbean, as well as points in the US, Canada, and South America.