Winair to Expand Antigua-Montserrat Flights in March as SVG Airways Experience operational challenges

The Montserrat Access Division has issued a significant update on the island’s air connectivity, revealing a mixed landscape of service expansion and operational suspensions for early 2026.

In a positive development for regional travel, WINAIR is enhancing its flight schedule to the British Overseas Territory. The carrier will maintain a three-day weekly service throughout January and February 2026, operating flights between St. Maarten, Montserrat, and Antigua every Tuesday, Friday, and Sunday. This limited schedule will undergo substantial expansion in March 2026, when WINAIR transitions to daily operations, significantly improving accessibility to the island.

Conversely, SVG Airways (also known as BMN Air) faces substantial operational challenges that have compelled a temporary suspension of services. The airline confirmed multiple systemic issues including ongoing aircraft maintenance requirements and a critical reduction in personnel. The carrier has lost three pilots and two engineers from its human resources portfolio, creating severe staffing shortages.

As a direct consequence of these operational difficulties, SVG Airways has closed its booking system for all routes serving Montserrat through February 2026. The airline is currently accepting reservations for travel commencing in March 2026, with bookings available through both digital platforms and traditional ticket agents.

The Access Division within the Office of the Premier emphasized that these updates reflect the dynamic nature of regional air transportation while reaffirming the government’s commitment to keeping the public informed about travel infrastructure developments.