Cayman Airways Marks Austin Inaugural as National Airline Continues Expansion

By Christopher Tobutt

Cayman Airways launched its inaugural nonstop service between Grand Cayman and Austin, Texas, on Sunday, 24 May 2026, marking another step in the national airline’s ongoing expansion and the Cayman Islands’ broader shift toward strengthening stayover tourism.

The day began at Owen Roberts International Airport with a ribbon cutting ceremony, refreshments, and brief remarks before the early morning departure. Deputy Premier and Minister of Tourism and Trade Development, Hon. Gary Rutty, told those gathered that the occasion represented more than the opening of a new route. “We are celebrating progress. And partnership. And the achievement of another important milestone for our Islands,” he said.

Rutty described Austin as a “vibrant, fast growing city” and an important addition to Cayman Airways’ U.S. network. He emphasised that the new service reflects the continued growth of the Cayman Islands as a destination with global appeal. “For a small airline and a small country, we continue to accomplish remarkable things,” he said. “Cayman Airways continues to compete with much larger carriers, connecting us to key markets, and carrying the Cayman Islands flag with pride, professionalism, and excellence.”

The new route is operated by the airline’s Boeing 737 8 aircraft, the modern fleet introduced to replace the aging 737 300s. The 737 8 has been central to Cayman Airways’ ability to open longer range U.S. routes in recent years, including Denver and Los Angeles. Austin now joins that list, enabled by the aircraft’s improved range, efficiency, and capacity.

Upon arrival in Texas, there was a wonderful  cultural display featuring the Swanky Kitchen Band and quadrille dancers. During the aircraft’s two hour layover, airport officials joined Minister Rutty in delivering remarks to mark the occasion.

In his Austin address, Rutty highlighted the importance of the Texas market to Cayman’s tourism industry. “In 2025, Texas represented more than 11.5% of all U.S. visitation to our islands, making it our highest performing U.S. state,” he said. He noted that Austin alone accounted for roughly 14% of all Texan visitors to Cayman even before the convenience of a nonstop flight. “That tells us that Austinites were already discovering and falling in love with the Cayman Islands. Today, we are making that journey faster, easier and even more enjoyable.”

Rutty also underscored the collaborative effort behind the new service. “Airlift partnerships don’t happen by chance,” he said. “They are built through vision, collaboration, and a shared belief in the value of connection between communities and countries.”

The Austin route aligns with the Cayman Islands’ long term strategy to strengthen stayover tourism, a sector that has become increasingly central since the country moved away from pursuing a cruise berthing facility. New airlift is seen as essential to supporting small and micro businesses, expanding economic opportunities, and sustaining growth in the visitor economy.

As the inaugural flight returned to Grand Cayman on Sunday evening, the milestone stood as both a practical addition to the national airline’s network and a symbolic marker of Cayman Airways’ continued evolution. With its modern fleet and expanding U.S. gateways, the airline remains a key driver of the Cayman Islands’ tourism future.