Air Antilles: Navigating the Caribbean Skies with Resilience Air Antilles, a regional airline based in Pointe-à-Pitre, Guadeloupe, has been a vital connector in the Caribbean since its inception on December 18, 2002. Operating under the IATA code 4I and ICAO code KES, the airline primarily serves the French Antilles, offering scheduled and seasonal flights that bridge various island communities. Initially established as a subsidiary of Air Guyane Express, Air Antilles functioned as the Caribbean arm of its parent company, sharing operational codes and resources. In 2016, the airline underwent a rebranding, adopting the name Air Antilles and introducing a new livery alongside the acquisition of its first ATR 72-600 aircraft. The airline's fleet has included a mix of ATR 42-500, ATR 42-600, ATR 72-600, and DHC-6-400 Twin Otter aircraft, tailored to meet the demands of short-haul regional flights. As of March 2025, Air Antilles operates a fleet of four aircraft, comprising two ATR 72-600s and two Viking DHC-6-400 Twin Otters, serving destinations such as Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Barthélemy, and Saint Martin. In September 2023, the airline faced significant challenges when its parent company, CAIRE, was placed into liquidation. However, a public-private partnership involving the Collectivity of Saint Martin (holding a 60% stake) and infrastructure company EDEIS (holding 40%) facilitated the revival of Air Antilles. The airline resumed operations on July 22, 2024, albeit with a reduced network and fleet. Despite its resurgence, Air Antilles has encountered financial hurdles. In December 2024, the French Competition Authority imposed a €1.5 million fine on the airline for engaging in price-fixing agreements with competitor Air Caraïbes between 2015 and 2019. Additionally, in April 2025, the airline's operating license was downgraded to a temporary status due to ongoing financial instability, with a validity extending only until June 30, 2025. Nevertheless, Air Antilles remains committed to its mission of connecting the Caribbean. With continued support from its stakeholders and a focus on sustainable operations, the airline aims to overcome current challenges and continue serving as a crucial link between the islands.