Tag:
Tropic Air
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.
Community and Society
San Pedro Town’s Municipal airstrip upgraded
The John Greif II Municipal Airport in San Pedro Town underwent significant upgrades in December 2024, enhancing its capacity and safety features for peak tourism season. This project, which had a budget of approximately $3.7 million, was a collaborative effort involving the Belize Airports Authority, the Ministry of Tourism, and private sector partners such as Maya Island Air and Tropic Air, along with a grant from the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB).
Community and Society
Tropic Air adds a new Cessna Grand Caravan EX to its fleet
Tropic Air is a domestic airline in Belize that provides services throughout the country and to neighboring countries. The airline recently invested in a new Cessna Grand Caravan EX, marking a significant addition to its fleet. Founded in 1979, Tropic Air has been essential to air travel services in Belize, particularly to areas like San Pedro on Ambergris Caye and Caye Caulker Village.
Travel & Tourism
Caye Caulker airport reopens
On Wednesday, September 20th, the Caye Caulker Municipal Airport reopened after renovation. The Belize Airports Authority (BAA) said that the airport underwent a transformation that will enhance the travel experience and safety for both locals and visitors to Caye Caulker. The airport closed on July 18th, and the BAA stated that the central repairs included improvements to the runway. Some of the issues included undulations considered dangerous for the routine daily flights operated by the local airlines, Tropic Air and Maya Island Air.
