Caribbean Airlines sends strong signal to competitors as first Boeing 767-300ER wide-body aircraft a

Caribbean Airlines on 28 August, welcomed the first of two Boeing 767 aircraft to its fleet. The 767, a wide-body jet with a capacity for 221 passengers in a 30
Business Class and 191 Economy configuration, will serve the airline on its London route as well as strategically on other key destinations throughout the route network.

Chairman of CAL, Rabindra Moonan expressed satisfaction at the arrival of the aircraft saying, "This is an important and strategic acquisition, at a particularly competitive time. We have been operating our London and other routes with wet-leased aircraft at a considerable cost while we protect market share and deepen our brand presence. With today's arrival and the subsequent arrival of our second 767 aircraft on Friday, we will be able to operate with increased efficiency and most importantly, our own on-board island warmth that the diaspora markets have always counted on. The Management team are working with the authorities to get all certifications to begin flying the aircraft commercially as soon as possible."

Looking forward to deploying the new aircraft to meet competitors head on, CEO (Ag), Robert Corbie added, "The 221 seat capacity will work well for us not only on the London route but also on the New York and Toronto routes in order to protect and in some cases grow our market share. A clear strategic decision. With the comfort, capacity and on-board experience that only Caribbean Airlines' experienced in-flight crews deliver, our product offering is stronger than ever. This choice of aircraft allows us to move even closer to our streamlined fleet business plan of one wide-body, one narrow-body and one turbo-prop type of equipment, a key element of the business model."

The 767 arrived at Piarco to a rousing welcome by staff and the traditional water cannon salute by the fire-services. Staff and a small contingent of Government and Authority body representatives took the opportunity the tour the aircraft and appreciate its comfortable interior complete with individual seat-back video screens and an IFE system offering 5 video and 10 audio channels for each passenger.