Local News
Cape Air Unveils Striking New Livery Celebrating the Spirit of the Caribbean
In celebration of the natural beauty of the Caribbean and Cape Air’s deep-rooted presence in the region, the airline unveiled a striking new livery on 13 November on one of its Britten-Norman Islander aircraft.
Introduced in San Juan, this vibrant design will soon be seen on flights to Virgin Gorda and Culebra, bringing a fresh burst of colour and symbolism to mark Cape Air’s 35th anniversary in aviation.
The livery pays thoughtful tribute to the spirit of the Caribbean, featuring iconic imagery that represents both the airline’s core values and the cultural heritage of the region. At the centre of the design is a large sea turtle, symbolising Cape Air’s resilience and connection to the Caribbean. The turtle, known to represent endurance, adaptability, and patience, reflects the journey of an airline that has served Caribbean passengers for decades. Cape Air’s CEO, Linda Markham, highlighted this connection, stating, “The sea turtle represents our long-standing commitment to the Caribbean, where we’ve grown alongside the communities we serve.”
In addition to the turtle, the design features hibiscus flowers in bright hues, evoking the joy and sunshine characteristic of Caribbean life. Representing good fortune, the hibiscus mirrors Cape Air’s optimistic outlook for the future. “As we celebrate our 35th anniversary, this flower symbolises the hope and prosperity that guide us forward,” said Markham.
The livery also includes a dynamic school of fish, a nod to teamwork and unity, which Cape Air says forms the foundation of its approach to service. Few places foster such a strong sense of community as the Caribbean, where Cape Air has long prided itself on close ties with local markets and passengers. “The school of fish reminds us that our strength lies in our collective efforts – from our dedicated team to the passengers who trust us to connect them with the places they love,” Markham noted.
These anniversary celebrations are not only about aesthetics but also serve as a reaffirmation of Cape Air’s commitment to the Caribbean. Since its establishment, the airline has woven itself into the fabric of local life, building partnerships with tourism boards, small businesses, and communities in the territories it serves. The Britten-Norman Islander aircraft, small yet versatile, embodies this adaptability and accessibility, making it the ideal canvas for such a tribute.
Passengers fortunate enough to board this special aircraft will be treated to an enhanced travel experience as they connect with destinations like Virgin Gorda and Culebra. Cape Air hopes this symbolic livery will serve as both a celebration of Caribbean culture and a reminder of the region’s unique natural beauty.
The Royal Virgin Islands Police Force has confirmed that Tarik Aaron was arrested shortly before midnight on Friday, April 17, on extradition orders issued by authorities in the United States Virgin Islands, and has since appeared before the Magistrate’s Court.
According to police, the arrest was carried out in connection with a request from USVI authorities, though further details have not been disclosed.
Aaron appeared before the Magistrate’s Court today and was denied bail.
Further updates are expected as more information becomes available.
The Civil Registry and Passport Office has announced an increase in fees for United Kingdom passports, effective April 8, 2026.
According to the office, the revised fees apply to new, renewal and replacement passport applications, as well as other related services.
Under the new structure, the cost for a new, renewal or replacement adult passport has been set at £116.50, while the fee for a child passport is £75.50. Adult frequent traveller passports will cost £130.50, and child frequent traveller passports £89.50.
The fee for changes to an existing passport will also be £116.50. In addition, a delivery fee of £14.32 will apply.
The Civil Registry and Passport Office advised that the updated fees are now in effect and apply to all relevant applications submitted on or after April 8.
A bill proposing wide-ranging changes to the Virgin Islands’ electoral system was introduced in the House of Assembly today, Tuesday, April 22, by Premier and Minister of Finance, Honourable Dr. Natalio D. Wheatley.
The proposed Elections (Amendment) Act, 2026, is based on consultations with stakeholders and recommendations from observer missions, as well as input from the Deputy Governor’s Office and the Office of the Supervisor of Elections.
“This is the Elections Amendment Act 2026, following extensive deliberations with a number of entities, including a committee of the House who looked at recommendations of various observer missions that came to The Virgin Islands,” Hon. Wheatley said during the continuation of the Second Sitting of the Third Session of the Fifth House of Assembly.
He said the bill also builds on work undertaken by the previous House of Assembly. “Also, the last House of Assembly looked at a number of recommendations that were forwarded through the Deputy Governor’s Office and the Office of the Supervisor of Elections,” he said.
Hon. Wheatley said the proposed amendments were developed through discussions on changes to the Elections Act. “We had very extensive discussions about amendments to the Elections Act, and of course, those recommendations were used to make this Amendment Act. This received its first reading some time ago, and now we are here to debate this Elections Act, so that it can therefore become law,” he said.
The bill introduces several reforms to the electoral framework, including expanded access to voting through mobile and curbside options for individuals with physical limitations and the formal use of assistive technologies for voters with disabilities.
It also provides for the establishment of a Department of Elections and an Elections Advisory Committee to oversee voter registration and election administration.
Additional provisions include a formal Code of Conduct for political parties and candidates, along with new rules governing campaign donations and political financing.
The legislation also proposes restrictions on the announcement of major public grants or projects shortly before an election, aimed at addressing potential incumbency advantages.
The bill has already received its first reading and is expected to be referred to a committee when the House of Assembly resumes on April 30, 2026, at 10 a.m., where it will undergo further review as part of the legislative process.
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