Tag:
Tropic Air
Government
Belize Airports Authority Cancels Security Contracts: What’s Next?
Following weeks of criticism and intense scrutiny, the Belize Airports Authority (BAA) has officially cancelled the security contracts awarded for local aerodromes. These contracts, previously held by Four Diamond Security Limited and iSecurity Limited, were suspended and eventually terminated due to concerns over an improperly conducted tendering process. The BAA has confirmed that an investigation into the awarding of these contracts is ongoing and stated that further actions will be taken as necessary once the inquiry concludes.
Community and Society
Tropic Air Launches Three Initiatives Honoring Local Heroes
During a special luncheon on Tuesday, May 20th, at a resort north of San Pedro Town, Tropic Air honored three individuals for their bravery during a hijacking incident on Holy Thursday, April 17th. The event recognized Captain Howell Grange, Fitzgerald Brown, and Franchesco Jair Castañeda, survivors of the ordeal and now hailed as local heroes.
Government
The Ministries of Civil Aviation and National Defense hold press conference on the investigation of the municipal plane hijacking incident
On April 30th, the Ministries of Civil Aviation and National Defense held a joint press conference to discuss the unprecedented hijacking of a municipal...
Community and Society
New security protocols at local municipal airstrips after airplane hijacking
In response to the alarming hijacking of a domestic flight that occurred on Thursday, April 17th, new security protocols have been implemented at all municipal airstrips. These measures ensure that every passenger is screened before boarding domestic flights. As part of the new regulations, at least one police officer will be stationed at each municipal airport.
Accidents & Disasters
Passengers injured in plane hijacking now recovering at home, pilot Howell Grange speaks on incident
On Thursday, April 17th, a shocking incident occurred in Belize when an American national, Akinyela Taylor, 49, hijacked a Tropic Air flight en route from Corozal to San Pedro Town, Ambergris Caye. Taylor threatened the passengers with a knife and inflicted severe injuries on three individuals, including the pilot. The injured victims—San Pedro businessman Fitzgerald Brown, Tropic Air employee Franchesco Castaneda, and Pilot Captain Howell Grange—were rushed to hospitals in Belize City following the life-threatening situation. The ordeal ended with Taylor being shot when the plane finally landed at the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA).
Crime & Violence
American who hijacked plane in Belize was trying to reach Texas
On Thursday, April 17th, the country was shocked when a Cessna 208EX Grand Caravan carrying 14 passengers, including a child, belonging to Tropic Air, was hijacked by a man wielding a knife. The hijacker, Akinyela Taylor, a 49-year-old U.S. citizen, demanded that the pilot take the plane out of the country, specifically to Texas, USA. His demands were not met, and during the ordeal, three individuals were injured. Taylor was ultimately shot and killed by one of the passengers upon landing at the Philip Goldson International Airport.
Community and Society
Tropic Air and the Government of Belize issue separate statements regarding plane hijacking incident
Earlier today, a Tropic Air flight faced a serious and unprecedented in-flight emergency. In the face of incomprehensible pressure, our pilot acted with extraordinary courage and calm, guiding the aircraft to a safe landing. His actions were nothing short of heroic.
Community and Society
14 Tropic Air Employees Certified as Tour Guides
A class of pilots and staff from Tropic Air received their certificates after completing the National Tour Guide Training Program. A brief ceremony was held at the company’s corporate headquarters, during which representatives from the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and trainer Philip ‘Billy’ Leslie distributed certificates to the participants. Fourteen department staff members undertook the course and can now apply for their Tour Guide licenses.
