Silver Airways reports major strategic growth developments

Fort Lauderdale-based Silver Airways (Silver) has signed a letter of intent to renew and expand its fleet with up to 50 new ATR-600 series aircraft. This is a significant strategic accomplishment for the airline and a transaction valued at up to US$1.1bn. The initial order is for 20 ATR-42-600 aircraft and the agreement also provides Silver the ability to upgauge to the larger series ATR-72-600s. With this deal, Silver becomes the first fully independent U.S. regional airline in more than 20 years to sign a new aircraft deal of this magnitude. The firm 20 aircraft will be lease financed by Silver. Silver will take delivery of up to four ATRs this year starting in the fourth quarter following receipt of regulatory approvals. Remaining deliveries of the first 20 aircraft are expected to be completed by the first quarter of 2020. Crew training will be conducted by ATR at its new training facility in Miami, which is home to a new multi-million-dollar investment of a Full Flight Simulator (FFS) for the ATR-600 series aircraft. The new aircraft will replace Silver’s existing fleet of 21 Saab 340B Plus turboprop aircraft over time. Silver Airways also announced that it has entered into negotiations with Seaborne Airlines (Seaborne) to explore commercial cooperation including potentially a combination in support of its long-term goal to become a major U.S. airline. Seaborne is a San Juan, Puerto Rico-based air carrier serving destinations throughout Puerto Rico, the U.S. Virgin Islands, and other countries in the Caribbean. Seaborne provides connections throughout the Caribbean via the carrier’s hub in San Juan, while also serving as the most critical link between St. Croix and St. Thomas with the carrier’s seaplane operation. Versa Capital is the largest creditor of Seaborne as well as its majority owner. Seaborne’s experienced and dedicated employees, portfolio of markets, and business partnerships could help facilitate Silver’s route network’s expansion into a variety of highly attractive flight destinations. Further updates will be provided as the evaluation of Seaborne progresses.