New airline service, Hummingbird Air, coming

The new aircraft from Hummingbird Air
The new aircraft from Hummingbird Air

The Canefield airport will soon see new life as a new locally based airline service is set to ‘take off’ from there in a few months.

Humming BirdAir, which is starting operations with a 9-seater aircraft, is an initiative of hotelier Sam Raphael and it will be offering chartered flights, with mixed passengers and cargo, from the hub of San Juan, Puerto Rico and The United States Virgin Islands to the Canefield airport.

Raphael, who is the proprietor of Jungle Bay Resort and Spa, told DNO the service aims to reduce flight delays and setbacks of commuters to Dominica, although it will not completely solve the island’s air access issues.

“We had a melt down,” he said referring to recent problems experienced by regional airline, LIAT.”And it’s just made it abundantly clear that we definitely need this intervention because most recently as a hotelier I have seen difficulty in getting here is getting worse and worse … right now we have guests that come stay with us and they eventually make it but their response is that they couldn’t recommend Dominica or think of returning unless we fix our air access problems.”

Raphael said air access has been having an impact on his business and getting people interested in Dominica who are not happy about returning or even recommending the destination to others.

“Most recently I have had to deal with cancellations both of people en route to Jungle Bay,” he explained. “They get stuck half way because of the connecting flight. In many cases we have had people turn around and go back home and we have had to provide full refund.”

To make matters worse, Raphael said there have been cases where future bookings have been cancelled, with further costs to his resort. “One day this week I have had two cancellations,” he lamented. “I lost US$10,000 in bookings from future cancellations because people don’t feel confident that they would be able to enjoy their honey moon and travel here.”

He mentioned that the aircraft would serve as a connector when visitors come to the island or to multi destinations. It will also serve as a carrier for local produce and can safely transport at least 2,000 pounds.

It is expected to be launched in October or early November of this year.

In recent weeks, LIAT has been the subject of much criticism from travelers in what has been dubbed its summer ‘meltdown.’

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116 Comments

  1. Lang Lang Shu
    October 24, 2015

    Hummingbird Airlines, thanks for coming on board. But we still need you to get some bigger airlines so as to give LIAT the competition it deserves. Need to stop this eight hour, twelve hour, and overnight wait in Antigua. LIAT is taking complete advantage and abusing us, cause they have no competition. So hope you can bring in some bigger airlines and also fix your prices a little. Imagine its cheaper to travel from the Caribbean Islands to the States than it is to travel between the Caribbean Islands. Ridiculous! Thanks.

  2. Count ur blessings
    September 4, 2013

    It never cease to amaze me how blessed we are as a country with so many things to thank the Almighty God for. When we need to travel throughout the Caribbean SAFELY; we look for LIAT, however, for some it is the worst airline on the planet.

    When We can’t secure a reservation on the same airline, due to overbooking from the above mentioned airline, we wish we had another airline to turn to. Here comes hummingbird, yet we complain, rather than being thankful.

    People of this lovely natural island of ours where many wish they could reside or even visit, give God thanks in everything, and he will open up the windows of heaven to bless us with more; even an international airport at the appropriate time.

    Come on, its time we appreciate LIAT for getting us home safely every time, rather than complaining of the delayed luggage. Be thankful for the little you have, and the blessings we experience everyday. Congratulations SAM on your new initiative, we all wish you well and much success. GIVE GOD THANKS.

  3. concerned
    September 4, 2013

    we are surrounded by water and yet still no one has come to point,that a sea plane would also serve dominica good ,with an international airport as well.i like the idea of another airline but i would rather a 12 to 18 seater sea plane ,instead of a 9seater plane.

  4. Barbara
    September 4, 2013

    This is a start. Good move. Happy someone took the initiative.

  5. kevin
    September 4, 2013

    Dominica need an international airport guys

    • politics
      September 27, 2013

      kevin you need a new shoe to put in your foot

  6. Congrats
    September 3, 2013

    Great initiative Mr Raphael, I wish you success in this endeavour.

    Persons like Gregor Nassief should follow in your footsteps instead of staying behind a letter and asking LIAT Chairman to resign.

  7. Anonymous
    September 3, 2013

    boy that would be good. Canefeild? that would take a couple hours out of the ride from melville hall

  8. concerned
    September 3, 2013

    Ummm… might as well call it a day on these POSs! Everyday somebody going somewhere and pick a piece POS of a aircraft and saying they’re the new airline.

  9. September 3, 2013

    I don’t want to sound negative however, aren’t we Dominican’s tired of riding on these little voonvoon’s. Let’s do the math people, the plane’s maximum weight capacity is “2000 pounds SAFELY” and max capacity of 9 passengers. So, if the average person weighs 160lbs you already have 1440lbs…then your luggage weighs 50lbs a piece and you will usually carry two pieces of luggage plus carry on ..so we will allot 120lbs per traveler.times that by nine…1080lbs…so…this leads me to this conclusion, MISSING LUGGAGE UPON LANDING OR an unsafe flight…Last time I traveled to Dominica for 13 days, i didn’t get my luggage until 10 days into my trip…i vowed never to return but, i’m bound to my country and village, so, we come back often but the trip is SOOOOOOO painful. The lack of a flight industry in DA makes it so much easier to travel to other vacation spots

    • Anonymous
      September 3, 2013

      Mr. Smarty Pants the 2,000 Lbs capacity refers to cargo!
      The report never said MAXIMUM weight capacity is 2,000 Lbs.

      • September 3, 2013

        Brother…go back and read the article and then get back to me. Now remember, pay attention to detail.

    • Observer
      September 3, 2013

      ummmm….u DO sound negative

    • September 7, 2013

      Agreed. Who wants to fly on a nine seatter airline? Too risky, this should be only for the sole purpose of the owner.

  10. grell
    September 3, 2013

    anyone wishing to fly to dominica for the upcoming election,will be a direct flight,bookings has already started,will send info soon.

  11. malick
    September 3, 2013

    Your best source of revenue that would allow your company/business to grow is to allow local, willing Dominicans to invest in this venture. By so doing they get a sense of being part of the business and as a result will do what is necessary to make it succeed.

  12. Shameless
    September 3, 2013

    Hopin to see man some of our “Canefield Pro Pilots” like Irwin, Butler, Royer, Andy and Robinson in the cockpit once again. Them boys for Cardinal knew their and could mantrol that type of aircraft.

    THANK you Sam. Dominicans you all were bawling so now let us show appreciation and fly Hummingbird to the destination they are go to. We as a people need to make them successful and not just say “good move” but still fly LIAT and others while our own struggle. Leave LIAT wallow in their mud. I will be flying high with HUMMING BIRD AIRWAYS. But don’t forget “Change Must Come” and this is just the beginning. :-D

    Assertive, NOT Agressive!

  13. September 3, 2013

    i am a licenced FAA aircraft dispatcher and was trained in aviation airline management in the US. I Also have flying hours. well informed about aviation industry operations.It’s a start my brother into something that can emerge into a regional airline with proper management, safety and foresight. I will be home soon, hope i can assists you with my expertise and knowledge in the field of aviation.

  14. ZULU
    September 3, 2013

    All you talking bout tourist. Every time i coming home its a pain in the assets. It turns me off

  15. Justice and Truth
    September 2, 2013

    Good luck to this new airline. I wish you all the best. Of course, I will be willing to fly with your airplane from Barbados of all and wherever in the West Indies/Caribbean I travel to.

  16. anonymous2
    September 2, 2013

    We need air service out of Canefield to and from SJU and STS. Bring it on with reasonable fares.

  17. Anonymous
    September 2, 2013

    Great initiative but not me with Canefield. I will buy my ticket when they are flying out of Melville Hall

  18. Aye
    September 2, 2013

    Hope the government can put 4 million in a Dominica based airline.

  19. Vincy at heart
    September 2, 2013

    @toronto
    Where in the worlddopeople ask another counrtyforan international airport ? You make yourself sound dump. My pm got help from lots of other countries plus vincentian is also putting there 2cents into a dream that we all share..i hate when people dont have there facts and start babbling there mouths.

  20. observing..
    September 2, 2013

    What we need is a deriect flight from Miami to D/ca. There are aircraft that can make that flight and service Melville HAll

    • observing..
      September 2, 2013

      Direct* before ya’ll judge my spelling

      • true dominican
        September 2, 2013

        Observing….. you not easy. lol You take in front before they judge your spelling??? lol. I agree with you. Mr. Durand you really have your work cut out for you eh. lol.

      • Justice and Truth
        September 2, 2013

        I noticed it and also that you corrected it. As I have always stated, we do make typographical and other mistakes. To err is human.
        I gave you thumbs up for that with a hearty laugh. :lol:

    • John Paul
      September 2, 2013

      Yeah the same Charter that carried Mr Skeritt’s voters to the Polling stations in Dominica!

      You would think the PM would have done something like tha tto ease the LIAT fiasco but He remained silent

  21. Rikeau
    September 2, 2013

    1. good initiative……
    2. it annoys me reading stupid comments from small minded Dominicans crying that Dominica don’t need an international airport. When International Airport comes, resorts come even before the airport is completed. Check out St Vincent or St Kitts. I don’t think that you guys understand that most tourist that visit the caribbean from US already are connecting from smaller cities and town and other States to miami, new york, charlotte, atlanta or philadelphia in order to get to the Caribbean. it is a turnoff when you have to make a third or fourth connection that is not reliable in order to get to Dominica. Unless Dominica gets an int. airport where 737s , 757s and a320s can airlift passengers by the hundreds and reduce connection, the tourist industry and growth will forever struggle. when international airport comes, investors come because they can now full their rooms with one flight. i have invited to much professors to Dominica and their biggest complain is getting there. So people Stop playing tebe and looking around you. all islands the have a growing tourist industry has an int airport, with the exception of St Barths. When Dominica gets one, the hotels tourist will come because Dominica has a lot to offer.

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      I have a dream. Figure out where there is a suitable location in Dominica for an international airport.

  22. Lougaoo Mem
    September 2, 2013

    But why are so many so negative? Almighty God please ensure that the operation is successful. Be positive people!

  23. Francisco Telemaque
    September 2, 2013

    My position here is not to critique Sam for his efforts, after all he has noted that the introduction of this little bird is not going to make any vast difference, in the bad in and out flights situation:

    This may benefit Sam business, and himself personally, in that if he expects nine guest, and learns they are stranded on an island such as Antigua, Martinique, or Guadeloupe, it might be convenient for him to dispatch his aircraft to air lift them off the stranded islands to Dominica.

    The suggestion of flying a visiting tourist from Puerto Rico to Dominica in a nine seater, aircraft, seems to be added misery to me. As the man said his guest indicates they will not return, nor will they recommend Dominica to their friends as a tourist destination, all due to poor access to the island!

    An single engine aircraft like that takes more than two or three hours to fly from Puerto Rico, to Dominica, and having limited space for baggage’s, would be difficult to bear, to the Dominicans who are accustom to the anything goes syndrome, will be happy to accept that as relief, but for the traveling tourist, and frequent flying Dominican in the Diaspora, such does not bring any relief or excitement to us.

    Now this is no secret to us Dominicans, I am from Wesley, I yearn to return on vacation; however, because of the flying nightmare; traveling from Los Angeles California to Dominica; and let me say the problem is not the traveling across the continental United States, the flying from New York, or from Miami to some Caribbean island, where if your connecting flight to Dominica was not made in a year or two in advance, half way in your journey one gets the feeling to return home and not visit Dominica.

    No doubt about it; quoting Sam, some of his guest has done exactly that!

    Even if Sam introduced a hundred seater aircraft, it would not change the situation to any better than it is right now, the problem is Dominica is not connected to the world via an International Airport. The present government has failed to recognized that, if they had that vision, they would not have wasted so much money on Melville Hall Municipal Airport, neglecting the construction of an International Airport.

    Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

    • Malatete
      September 2, 2013

      Dear Mr. Telemaque, as always I read your contributions with great interest. However, in this case I think the correction of a a few misconceptions are in order:

      – I identify this aircraft a 15 seater (+ two crew) Beech 99A commuter liner (not 9 seats as quoted in the DNO article), developed from the legendary “King Air”.
      – This is not a single prop aircraft but an unpressurised twin turboprop with a cruising speed of 205 knots/hr.,(compared with an economic cruising speed of the ASTR72 of 248 kts/hr for example,).
      Since the flying distance from San Juan (SJU) to Melville Hall (DOM) is 321 knots I reckon a flight between the two can be achieved in 1 3/4 hours, using this aircraft…..compare this with a 1 1/2 hr. rough ride from Roseau to Melville Hall!

      This particular aircraft is registered to Ay Ay Holding Ltd. of Kingshill, St. Croix and a new certificate was issued as recently as 1 August of this year.

      I applaud mr. Raphael’s initative and hope,in time
      a similar service can be extended rrom Canefield to Barbados (ideally via Martinique/Guadeloupe and/or St. Lucia).

      ADMIN: Actually six seats were removed to accommodate cargo, as Raphael said the plane will be used to transport a combination of passengers and cargo. That was not included.

      • Francisco Telemaque
        September 3, 2013

        “Humming BirdAir, which is starting operations with a 9-seater aircraft, is an initiative of hotelier Sam Raphael and it will be offering chartered flights, with mixed passengers and cargo, from the hub of San Juan, Puerto Rico and The United States Virgin”

        Well, Madam/Sir, Perhaps I do not know how to read the English Language from left to right, and I may have erred, which is not likely, in this case.

        However; I refer you to the quote above taken from the written article on DNO; and in what appears to the words of the man himself Sam Rafael!

        Kindly re-read the article, and may I say even if it was a fifteen (15) seater, or a hundred seater, it would not make one bit of a difference, because the ultimate resolve to our problem is the building of an International Airport on the island.

        No if and; or but!

        The government can procrastinate, they can find any and all reasons to deprive the nation the development of such part of nations infrastructure, nevertheless; eventually reality will set in, and the people will demand it, and if their voices are not heard, it will mean the beginning of the end for the party in power in that day.

        I mean by now every travailing Dominican is weary with what we are literary forced to accept, someone who has never left Dominica, may appreciate what they see in Dominica, however by the time they venture out to the islands of Guadeloupe, Martinique, or Antigua, their eyes become opened to the fact that our island is the most under develop, and backward place in the Caribbean.

        The last time I visited Dominica, I met a man who had just returned from a visit to Martinique, I ask him his opinion in regards to what he saw on that island in comparisons to our beloved Dominica. I will not use the exact terminology he used to describe his experience.

        However, I remember him saying: ” when I landed in Martinique, and look at the place, ah say a wa de F… me a see ya.” The man told me for the sixty plus years of his life living in Dominica, he lived under the impression that Dominica was more developed than Martinique, you see there are lots of our people who feel the same way about our country,

        Some politicians are into the business of misguiding our people making them believe that they have the best of everything; and living in luxury, meanwhile they are engulfed in poverty and backwardness, someday the wool will drop off from over the eye lids of the nation, and the people will demand development, which will lead to prosperity!

        Either that our there be entropy, and chaos will overwhelm the country.

        Francisco Etienne-Dods Telemaque

    • September 2, 2013

      Garçon, you and blessings must have graduated from the same school.

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      Just a thought. They need a cargo plane which should either precede or follow the passengers. However, there may be a problem with airspace for safe flying. They may also not want to fly an extra plane which will obviously cost them additional funds.

      • Jay
        September 4, 2013

        My advice, stick to religion.

    • bigsexy
      September 2, 2013

      Mr. Telemaque,

      Thanks for sharing my exact thoughts in your final paragraph. I will also add that the day will come when this present government will know what it is to be on the other side of the parliamentary Isle. Then we will enjoy the airport services that we deserve. Mr R. Gonsalves, prime minister of St . Vincent was brought here by Mr.Skerrit, prime minister of Dominica to convince his supporters that we nor St . Vincent needed international airports. Labourites cheered,shouted and danced. He then went back to Vincy and started building an INTERNATIONAL AIRPORT WHICH WILL BE COMMISSIONED LATER 2013.
      How brilliant of my people!

  24. san hout
    September 2, 2013

    If you fly from one country to the next under different flags, for example, Dominica to Antigua, it is an international flight. The correct term would be, Dominica needs a bigger airport

    • silent
      September 2, 2013

      how are we going to ,maintain an international airport when we cannot even maintain what we have? do u know how costly it is?

      • true dominican
        September 2, 2013

        Silent I agree with you. they want the government to construct an international airport for taxpayers to feel the brunt of it after.

      • September 2, 2013

        You have got wisdom my friend. This is absolutely true. It’s almost like buying a 10 ton truck to transport 4 bags of dasheen, 8 bunches of bananas, and 4 bags of oranges from Belles to Roseau market when you could economically manage with a small Toyota or Nissan van.

      • Malgraysa
        September 3, 2013

        The same way we are going to maintain the State Palace nuh?

      • Toomatoe Tomato
        September 3, 2013

        The answer everyone who wants and International Airport and careless of the cost or what it entails will tell you, if they build it people will come. That is all.

      • Anthony Ismael
        September 3, 2013

        You make a valid point. However, when will we stop thinking small?
        We cannot continue to funtion as we have been doing. Leave Island Any Time Aircraft is not working for us.

      • Listening!!!
        September 3, 2013

        My friend Silent…We cannot maintain our current airport because it brings nothing that can help us to develop the country tourism and by extension the agricultural sector.

        An INTL airport with proper marketing of Dominica and its natural resources will bring INTL chain hotels,new investors and infrastructural development which will equates to more jobs and tax revenues for the GOVT.
        Once we have comprehensive sellable tourism product then tourists will come and our Farmers, local vendors will benefit financially which will transcend into more spending into the broader Dominica economy in the private sector.

        Once the tourist and agricultural sector are blossoming and making money then gov’t will make enough money which then should used under one umbrella to help maintain the INTL airport rather than look at the INTL airport as an entity by itself to be maintain from landing fees.

  25. John
    September 2, 2013

    What Dominica needs is a mid size jet service like a 727 non stop from Dominica straight to the US mainland like Florida or Puerto Rico but better straight to the US.

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      Well, have you forgotten Canada? Those who especially reside in Great Britain would state likewise.

  26. John Jay
    September 2, 2013

    This is a good venture I guess Gregor Nassief should look into this also in getting an aircraft to assist his business an not the other airline.

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      You want to bet? In time this may occur.

  27. Annonymous Reader
    September 2, 2013

    I cannot speak for other people, I can only speak for myself. I have landed into Canefield Airport numerous times and have never felt the crosswinds people on here are talking about.

    But i’ll tell you what, until i hear the pilot bawling MAYDAY! MAYDAY! coming into Canefield Airport, I’m not going to make the crosswinds an issue. I will brace myself, endure the couple minutes discomfort, rather than to endure the sick feeling in my stomach for AN ENTIRE HOUR OR MORE, travelling on the roads in Dominica.

    I live much closer to the Canefield Airport than I do to Melville Hall, and while others will be vomiting on the sides of the road or getting car-sick, I will be home eating a callaloo.

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      You are fortunate you felt nothing. I have felt it, coming in and worst going out. After leaving Canefield airport while flying to Antigua, it was extremely bad. Only God protected us. I did not fail to pray. In fact, that morning I awoke early and went to Holy Mass at the Roseau Cathedral.
      This time, it was cloudy with white clouds for the duration of the turbulence. Recently I had such a discussion with someone. I stated, “We could have easily disappeared from radar, never to be.”
      After that type of scary turbulence passed, the pilot said this is usually experienced. He did inform us about the turbulence. The plane was going up and down. It was a relief when it was over and we arrived in sunny A/gua. Dominica was also sunny. The poor pilot, if I had seen him after we arrived in A/gua, I would have asked him if he was not scared.
      We just have to pray and hope for the best. I prefer leaving from and arriving in Canefield. It is convenient. As we travel, be it on land, on sea or in the air, we take our chances.

  28. Oh yes
    September 2, 2013

    Forward thinking and great initiative. A every little positive venture help create several benefits including a splendid adventure.

  29. DBusiness
    September 2, 2013

    At the rate LIAT going….People will all need to pitch in to buy their own airplane to leave Dominica!

  30. DBusiness
    September 2, 2013

    Sam Raphael I hope this is the beginning of a proper regional airline. Looking for shareholders?

  31. Jbfox
    September 2, 2013

    Good news but canefield not so sure for me had enough on ck.

  32. hmmm
    September 2, 2013

    hahaha, some people can be sooo ignorant and arrogant it’s funny. today, tomorrow, 5 years, 10 years, 20 years, 30 years form now DOMINICA MUST get an international airport. WHY? because we need one. The country suffering through lack of tourism as well as exports in all sectors (entertainment/talent too). WCMF suffering because people afraid to travel because of the Leave Island Any Time company it have there. Hotels and resorts and guest houses empty because of that same reason. Allu will see ehh. Keep crying down the idea and see if in a few years labour wouldn’t come and do it after they make us over-dependant on them. Is now it will have crime, people robbing tourist more. The international airport can open doors for persons to get a job a well. Allu not thinking? They throw dust over allu head so allu shamaey? who doe want to hear will feel. Imagine, me and a pander of mine was trying to explain the benefits of a change of government to two others who maintain the current administration is the right thing because “now is the time for them to be in power”. It was soo sad that I was listening to two persons, one who has a struggling small business, seriously srruggling and another who has been unemployed for over a year and a half, both with college degrees and under twenty-five. I didn’t want to point out that fact to them but it was just sad. I couldn’t believe it. I say they blind, love is blind, and all they seeing is red hearts. hahaha, both of them have children under the ages of five and both of them always borrowing money from me by the way. But they want to convince me that a change is government won’t be good and that now is labour time to shine. hahaha. whatever veil they put over those labourites eyes it well put. Allu better go and bath in the sea when the new moon come because allu will suffer ehh, and is only when allu social-security cannot make allu ends meet allu will understand. I rather WORK than LABOUR everyday!!!!!!

  33. September 2, 2013

    I know I’m going to get all the thumbs down but I have to give my 2cents.
    Firs of all Canefield is a ‘Fly At Your Own Risk’ and secondely they want to introduce a hummingbird (a 9 seater little bird) to that airport. After my experience flying to and from there on a tiny LIAT some years ago, I vowed never to fly through there again.

    • Anonymous
      September 2, 2013

      So who is asking you or forcing you to fly there? Let’s just support a positive initiative and wish the company well.
      Cha!

  34. Nacinimod
    September 2, 2013

    We definitely do not need an international airport. Instead, what we need is better management/leadership at LIAT and Caribbean Airlines. I don’t see any reason why these two airlines cannot adequately service Dominica?

    This of course assumes a government that is truly interested and capable of developing the infrastructure (roads, bridges, etc.) for access and growth of our tourism product.

    Sam, my brother, I wish you well.

    • jokes
      September 2, 2013

      Short and to the point. Well said….We cannot handle an international airport. Countries with a much more thriving tourism industry, with larger population of people are struggling to maintain theirs..yet as usual, we want to follow everyone else cus we see they have something and want it as well. Economically it is not necessary. All we need is more providers and interconnecting flights.

      • Anonymous
        September 2, 2013

        Ou tow sort garcon!
        Check the map and see Dominica’s position.
        we will become the natural hub and the other islands will lose out, not Dominca.

    • neutral
      September 2, 2013

      perfect example of one who does not make use of his/her brain.In this day and age? Such backward thinking.GOSH!come on.

      • neutral
        September 2, 2013

        No wonder foward thinking Doiminicans are running away, taking their human resources to other Caribbean countries that either have international airports or building one.

    • fair play
      September 2, 2013

      So, So, Right.We require a reliable regular connection and the Pont Casse road to be completed.Most tourists make flight changes and a bus connection to hotels.What should be a short trip to Roseau is a nightmare
      However have waited four years for this.????????

    • Malgraysa
      September 3, 2013

      Yes, why isn’t Caribbean Airlines allowed to service Dominica? That would create healthy competition for both the airlines and the travelling public. Open up Dominica to more competition I say. Only competition forces people to improve.

  35. 2 CuTe
    September 2, 2013

    Well we need it cuz busy season coming up – Creole Festival and so on gonna be extra great and the way liat going ..Trust me we need that.

  36. Jimi Hendrix
    September 2, 2013

    Sam is smart enough to separate jungle Bay from that airline because within 3 years that airline will be out of business.

    I understand his frustration with LIAT, but running an airline is playing russian roulette with your money. That is probably the worse business to get into.

    • Supporter
      September 2, 2013

      Jimi Hendrix, Get thee behind me, Satan.. Be Thankful and stop hating!
      Thank you very much… Blessing, try to get ideas and develop your country!!!

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      LIAT is still in business even as it provides consistent poor service. Those who have had poor experience with LIAT and who now know of this new airline, they should boycott LIAT and try it to test its reliability.

  37. your very own
    September 2, 2013

    Great Initiative Sam. Congratulations! there should be many more like you to take that leap of faith. I know everything will work out as you have a lot of support behind you. thanks for setting the trend for others to follow.

  38. Erasmus B. Black
    September 2, 2013

    Now, faith is the substance of things hoped for, the evidence of things not seen, per the Holy Book.

    I am hoping that this airline will fare better than Air Caribe, Nature Island Airways and WinAir to name a few. I am hoping that this airline meets regional and international aviation standards. I am hoping for the day when we can have a viable and safe alternative to LIAT and above all else I am keeping hope alive for HummingBird Air.

    Congratulations and the best of luck to Mr. Raphael.

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      Also patience which is a godly virtue, a Fruit of the Holy Spirit and His Gift to us. If only we would practice it and know that nothing lasts forever.

  39. lightbulb
    September 2, 2013

    9 seater, cant be economically viable.

    • Malgraysa
      September 3, 2013

      You think Mr. Raphael is stupid enough to go into a business to make a loss? I’m sure he has done his maths.

  40. Doc. Love
    September 2, 2013

    I wish to congratulate you Sam. I wish to advise you to be careful where the money or assistance is coming from in order to fund this project. A hotelier in Roseau had a very embarrassing situation because they had seek Government’s assistance to improve their hotel. A gentleman who is in charge of a popular University Campus in Roseau also suffered a similar fate.

    • jokes
      September 2, 2013

      whats your point abt where the man’s funding is coming from? This isnt politically motivated. Its business and patriotism.

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      You know the saying, “Nothing beats a failure but a trial.” Wish him well. I prefer thinking positively.

  41. Vanya
    September 2, 2013

    Good idea by Sam,be aware of the cross winds at canefield which can be a nightmare..

    But again the small ideology of many a dominican…
    thinking small.

    why not bite the bullet and build a international airport

    but again it’s the dominican mindset…
    that’s why they will continue to be low ended!

    • just saying
      September 2, 2013

      started off so positive so sweet but the negatives took hold of you and turned you sour soooo sour.

      • Justice and Truth
        September 2, 2013

        I like your comment. :lol: :lol: :lol: You made me laugh. :lol: :lol: :lol:

    • eLIxIr
      September 2, 2013

      Here’s an Idea…….if u think money falls from rain clouds…..why don’t YOU invest and build an International Airport??….I understand that we need it, but at least someone made a step to at least assist with the disaster that is LIAT!! correction…*that’s why WE will continue to be low ended* cause ppl like you don’t know how to start small and elevate!!

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      There is also turbulence when flying anywhere. I once traveled from Canada and while in the air we experienced turbulence. Simply hope for the best. What is there to happen will happen anywhere and vice versa. I never cease praying especially when I am traveling by air.
      God wants us to pray not only for ourselves but for others including the pilots. Know that he uses such an opportunity to test our faithfulness and also to get us to remember him and pray to him. Ever thought of that?
      We should not waste those moments and in being scared. Praying fervently will help us overcome our fear, knowing that with God all will be well. Faith, trust and hope in God.

  42. Pedro
    September 2, 2013

    If you are not connected with the rest of the world, you are better off dead. Build an international airport.

    • neutral
      September 2, 2013

      THANK U SIR!
      A forward thinking Dominican you are. :idea: :arrow:

    • Justice and Truth
      September 2, 2013

      Another exaggeration and negativity. If we have to do without it, so be it. I am not dead and hopefully not just yet, thanks be to God. Life will go on for all of us.

  43. Dori D
    September 2, 2013

    Great initiative wishing this venture succeeds.

  44. Perfect Moved
    September 2, 2013

    “Congratulations Sam” Thanks. Will Surely support you, Know for a fact that the money will be staying in Dominica to developed the Country. wish many others do like you, But We Dominicans Scared to Invest.

  45. ?
    September 2, 2013

    boy dats money d man loosing who feels it knows it for real

  46. MRS D
    September 2, 2013

    WELCOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

  47. Ian
    September 2, 2013

    You know what? It is insane that Dominica is still not getting it’s fair share in this thing. We deserve better at least which is why people like me and the others who agree to support Sam and everyone else who has got their eyes set on better air access to our beautiful Country. Some say that we don’t need this and we don’t need that.. a boat load of crap they sit and talk while the island is going no where. I am quite upset about the opportunities we continue to lose.. Chewwpes!!!

  48. smh
    September 2, 2013

    wow..sam raphael is such a breath of fresh air..he inspires me

    • concerned
      September 2, 2013

      woooo hooo me to

  49. struggler
    September 2, 2013

    Not Canefield..

  50. IamHis
    September 2, 2013

    Hopeful…Waiting for more…Time will tell.

  51. Randolph
    September 2, 2013

    This is a crying shame that we still do not have a jet airport. The last time I came home, I had to fly into Puerto Rico then take a 4 seater into the island. The prime minister must make this a priority.

    • Malatete
      September 3, 2013

      We do have a jet airport in Melville Hall. It can accommodate the 737 and in fact has done so. Ask how the the voters from overseas were flown into Dominica at the last election? The problem is that we do not have passenger load to warrant a scheduled service by such an aircraft.

  52. all the best
    September 2, 2013

    that’s a great idea, hopefully all goes well for your business,furthermore Dominicans an most definitely the individuals who come to visit our island.

  53. Confused Reader
    September 2, 2013

    I welcome this wholeheartedly.

    I remember the days when you could just take a short drive to Canefield and catch a plane. So much more convenient, especially if you don’t have a fear of small aircrafts :mrgreen: :wink:

  54. smfh
    September 2, 2013

    Canefield airportis dangerous,why put peoples life at risk?why not melville hall airport instead

  55. Anthony Ismael
    September 2, 2013

    I am not flying into Canefield Airport. The cross winds are too dangerous, especially during Easter.

  56. Bogoroy
    September 2, 2013

    Now, was this the Dominica-based airline of which the newly anointed one in the UWPwee spoke? How much prior knowledge did he have of this?

    • sensay
      September 2, 2013

      The anointed one of the DLPwee :twisted: will have to come forward and debate the issue :-P

  57. President
    September 2, 2013

    Who feels it knows.

  58. Reon
    September 2, 2013

    And some fools say we don’t need an International Air port.

    Do you know the amount of trips I would make to my lovely Dominica if we had better air access??

    Every time I need to come home I have to overnight in some airport or hotel!!!

    • Britbob
      September 2, 2013

      Well count me among the fools … because unless I see any comment here involving an international airport which pays due account to the costs to build and maintain it, the mitigation of the near catastrophic environmental damage and justification in terms of realistic passenger numbers, I will continue to discourage it in the strongest possible terms. I notice the new Opposition political chief is trying to sell us the same male cow waste matter. The international airport will never be built, of course, and rightly so. That doesn’t worry me. What does worry me is the danger in having too many Dominicans believe the mirage and the reckless leader who might waste millions in the futile attempt at such a project.

      • September 2, 2013

        If we didnt believe in the DLP and the fact the PM brought the Prime Minister from St.Vincent to come to D”ica to tell us that we cant afford an International Airport the one that Ralph PM got would have been for D’ica and we would be looking forward to the big celebration early next year instead, after he told us we dont need it he went to TAIWAN and ask for an International Airport now we are the only Island that have the most problems to come down to D’ica .
        All I have say the folks that say we dont need it never travelled they live all their life either in D’ica or use Boat to get around.We need the international airport because I would be home much more .

      • real possie
        September 2, 2013

        @ Britbob dominicans see people with stuff don’t know how they got it but all they know they want it,i have been posting about this for so long not one of the so called know it all ever answered me yet,i will only talk of ST Thomas today they don’t have an international airport they close at 11pm, there are strait flights from the main land every day ask them how they doing with the airport they have?the suggestion i have is do like PR build one a little bigger than the one we have with intent to expand.I wonder if these people know how much it takes to maintain an international airport or an airline?so all am saying is the more you grow the more you expand,the airport STT have president Clinton plane landed and was parked at that airport.

      • neutral
        September 2, 2013

        Is the white house by the library going to generate money to sustain itself?Taxpayers money wil be used. The inter.airport will sustain itself.

      • true dominican
        September 2, 2013

        Hoooooooraaaaaayyyyyyy. I commend you on such a powerful comment.

    • angel
      September 2, 2013

      We’re a nation of seventy thousand people – equivalent to a small town anywhere else in the world. We already have two airports and you want a third?!! Do you have any idea what it costs to maintain an international airport? We can’t even maintain our roads or sidewalks. What we need is a reliable Dominica-based airline that connects with international flights in a timely manner because LIAT have proved incapable of doing this. All we need is an airline that delivers people on time to BGI, ANU. SJU and PTP and then visitors can get here and get home without drama.

  59. Anonymous
    September 2, 2013

    Timely decision.I take it he has also consulted the CARDINAL AIRLINES investors/managers and other such initiatives for their experiences on this Canefield Airport arrival/departure route/facilities.

  60. On the Ball
    September 2, 2013

    Great idea Sam ; I wish that this venture could blossom into a formidable airline with much bigger aircrafts. In fact I wish for bigger aircrafts by October so that I can book a flight into Dominica for the Creole festival

  61. GOOD TIDINGS
    September 2, 2013

    Mr. Rafael, CONGRATULATIONS to you!! ONLY you would take this up while the others talk. You have being an inspiration to many who know of your challenges and struggles in getting Jungle Bay off the ground.

    I wish you all the best in this endeavor…Blessings to you my Brother.

  62. Kathy
    September 2, 2013

    I wonder how much the flights will cost, can’t find their website

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