Winair: The Heartbeat of Caribbean Skies In the mosaic of Caribbean aviation, Winair (Windward Islands Airways International N.V.) stands out as a vital connector of island nations and cultures. Founded in 1961 and based in Sint Maarten, Winair has become synonymous with reliable regional travel, offering lifelines to smaller islands often inaccessible by larger carriers. From its humble beginnings with a single Piper Apache aircraft, Winair has grown into a robust airline that links over 10 destinations across the Lesser Antilles, including Saba, St. Eustatius, St. Barthélemy, Anguilla, Antigua, Dominica, and Saint Kitts and Nevis. What sets Winair apart is its commitment to servicing short-runway airports and challenging terrain, making it an essential player in Caribbean connectivity. One of the airline’s most iconic services is its route to Saba’s Juancho E. Yrausquin Airport—famed for having the shortest commercial runway in the world. Only highly skilled pilots, like those at Winair, are qualified to land there, reinforcing the airline's reputation for precision, safety, and expertise. Winair operates a fleet of de Havilland Twin Otters and ATR 42-500s, perfectly suited for regional routes. The aircraft are known for their short takeoff and landing (STOL) capabilities, which are crucial for many of the airline’s destinations. Despite being a small carrier, Winair has consistently maintained high service standards, working closely with partners like Air France, KLM, and United Airlines for seamless interline connections. The airline's core mission remains unchanged: to provide safe, efficient, and dependable air transportation for residents, tourists, and businesses alike. In recent years, Winair has also made strides in modernizing its operations, including enhanced online booking options and improved customer support. Whether you're an adventurer seeking out remote island escapes or a local traveling for work or family, Winair delivers more than just flights—it offers a bridge between cultures, economies, and communities across the Caribbean.