Skip Barnette, president and CEO of Caribbean Star Airlines and its sister carrier, Caribbean Sun Airlines, commented on the new aircraft, saying: “Not only are these the first brand-new aircraft to be put in service in the Caribbean in more than 10 years, but with their NVS technology, they’re also the most technologically advanced turboprop aircraft found anywhere in the world.”

The revolutionary NVS (Noise and Vibration Suppression) system is a unique high-tech feature offered exclusively by Bombardier that dramatically reduces cabin noise caused by normal fuselage vibration.  This results in ultra-low noise levels not found on any other type of turboprop aircraft.

“From a noise and comfort standpoint, it’s more like traveling aboard a larger jet aircraft, so you can actually enjoy a conversation without shouting,” said Barnette. 

The first of the four brand-new Q300s was added to the Caribbean Star fleet in January 2006 and features a special livery celebrating the Stanford 20/20 Cricket Tournament.  Caribbean Star and its sister airline Caribbean Sun are the “Official Airlines of the Stanford 20/20,” which is currently taking place in Antigua.  The third and fourth brand-new Q300s will enter the Caribbean Star fleet later in July 2006.

The addition of the new Q300 brings the combined Caribbean Star/Caribbean Sun fleet to 20 aircraft.

Privately held Caribbean Star Airlines Limited was incorporated in Antigua in January 2000.  Its sister airline Caribbean Sun Airlines Inc., based in Fort Lauderdale, Florida, launched its maiden flight in January 2003.  The combined fleet operated by both carriers stands at 20 Dash-8 aircraft, the most recent of which was commissioned into service in July 2006. 

A total of 19 Caribbean destinations are served by the two airlines, which transport some 80,000 people each month.  More information about Caribbean Sun Airlines and Caribbean Star Airlines is available at their respective websites, www.flycsa.com and www.flycaribbeanstar.com.

Caribbean Star Airlines Limited and Caribbean Sun Airlines Inc. are affiliated but separate companies.  The air service provided by each carrier is operated independently of the other, and the rules applicable to travel on each airline may be different.