Cayman Airways will launch a new seasonal nonstop route between Grand Cayman and Austin, Texas, expanding its US network and strengthening airlift from one of the fastest-growing metropolitan markets in the United States.

The airline said the weekly Sunday service, which is subject to regulatory approval, is scheduled to begin on May 24, 2026, and will run through August 16, 2026.

It will provide travellers in Central Texas with a direct option to the Cayman Islands during the peak summer period.

Deputy Premier and Minister of Tourism Gary Rutty said the new route reflects how the national airline is being used to drive tourism growth.

“This new nonstop service to Austin is a strong example of how we are using our national airline to support tourism growth in the Cayman Islands. Austin is a fast-growing market, and introducing direct connectivity allows us to convert proven interest into actual arrivals,” Rutty said.
“I look forward to this route strengthening the Cayman Islands’ presence in the USA and delivering real benefits for our tourism economy.”

Executive Vice President for Commercial Affairs and Chief Financial Officer Paul Tibbetts said Austin had consistently shown strong demand for Cayman travel, even without nonstop service.

“Austin has emerged as a strong and growing source market for the Cayman Islands, with steady increases in visitor arrivals over recent years,” Tibbetts said.

“Data analysis identified Austin as one of the largest unserved U.S. markets for Cayman travel, with particularly strong demand during the summer period, and we’re excited to be the first airline to blaze this new trail.”

Tibbetts added that the route was designed to strengthen summer travel demand and expand the airline’s reach into Central and Western US markets, while eliminating the need for connections through major hub airports.

“The route will also eliminate the need for one or more connections through major US hubs, providing greater convenience and travel time savings for passengers,” he said.

The new service will be supported by joint marketing initiatives between Cayman Airways and the Department of Tourism to raise awareness and drive demand in the Austin market.

Director of Tourism Rosa Harris welcomed the announcement, noting the importance of Texas as a key source market.

“This route plays an important role in our tourism strategy as it increases connectivity from Texas, one of our top source markets in the United States,” Harris said.
“It will now be easier for Austin-based travellers, and those connecting through Austin, to enjoy a stress-free and effortlessly luxurious vacation in the Cayman Islands.”

Beyond inbound tourism, the Austin route will also benefit Cayman residents by providing a direct travel option to Central Texas for business, education, visiting friends and family, and onward travel within the United States.

Tickets for the new service go on sale January 30, 2026, through Cayman Airways’ booking channels and travel professionals.