BermudaAir looks set to become the archipelago’s first ever flag carrier, having received approval from the Bermuda Civil Aviation Authority (BCAA) and being granted its Air Operating Certificate (AOC).
In this instance, the AOC certifies that a commercial airline with its principal place of business in Bermuda is competent to operate its aircraft safely in accordance with the country’s prescribed regulations and standards.
The BCAA only grants an AOC if it is satisfied that an airline meets standards across an array of operational elements, from safety management to equipment and maintenance, previous experience to organization and staffing.
“We’re grateful that BermudAir’s work to set up a world class airline in Bermuda has been validated via the rigorous AOC assessment process,” said Adam Scott, CEO of BermudAir. “This is a major milestone for our team towards fully launching the airline and being able to serve this market. Both the BCAA and BermudAir teams have put in a lot of hours to get here, and we appreciate everyone’s commitment throughout the process.”
BermudAir plans to operate two Embraer E175 aircraft on routes between Bermuda and the United States (US).
The next stage in the new airline’s development should be to receive approval from the US Department of Transportation.
According to local publication, Royal Gazette, Scott told attendees and press at the opening of the carrier’s new on-site office that US approval was “imminent”.
Bermuda Air will fly to and from the east coast of the US, with flights commencing late summer 2023, depending on regulatory approval.
On July 26, 2023, Bermuda’s Minister of Transport Wayne Furbert said: “As a government, we take immense pride in witnessing a significant milestone for Bermuda, the impending launch of the first-ever locally established Bermuda-based airline – BermudAir. This marks a pivotal step forward for expanding our island’s aviation sector and symbolizes the potential for growth, progress, and self-sufficiency within our borders. I extend our congratulations to the BermudAir team for their vision and tenacity. I wish them much success as they launch the airline.”