A new tender for the acquisition of a single DHC-6 for Cayman Airways Express has been reflighted, following the failure of a previous call in May 2023.

Preference is for the DHC-6-300 variant, although both the DHC-6-100 and DHC-6-200 variants with High Gross Weight modifications are also eligible. However, the DHC-6-400 is excluded from the bid. Eligible aircraft must have less than 30,000 accumulated flight hours and be configured with fixed gear and cabin layout for up to 17-19 passengers. No heavy maintenance must be scheduled within the first 12 months after delivery.

Potential suppliers have until November 18, 2023, to submit the offers.

While most of the requirements remain unchanged compared to the May 2023 tender, the government is no longer willing to lease the aircraft and will now only accept sale bids.

Cayman Airways Express currently operates two DHC-6-300s and two Saab 340B(Plus). The new Twin Otter is for growth rather than replacement of either of the current aircraft. The Cayman Airways (KX, Grand Cayman Island) subsidiary operates only domestically, connecting Grand Cayman Island, Little Cayman, and Cayman Brac Island airports.