Caribbean Airlines gets another 737-8 jet, introduces pre-order meal option

The aircraft is expected to undergo checks and testing before starting commercial operations. Caribbean Airlines will operate an all Boeing 737-8 fleet by July this year.

BRENT PINHEIRO
[email protected]

Caribbean Airlines received another brand-new Boeing 737-8 last night, the third such aircraft for the local carrier. The aircraft, bearing the registration 9Y-ANT and operating as BW7378, departed Seattle’s Paine Field Airport at 9:38 am and arrived at the Piarco International Airport at 9:31 pm, according to data from flight tracking website FlightAware.com

9Y-ANT’s flight path from Seattle to Piarco International. [Map courtesy Flightaware.com]

The aircraft is expected to undergo checks and testing before starting commercial operations. Caribbean Airlines will operate an all Boeing 737-8 fleet by July this year.

Speaking at the launch of Caribbean Airlines’ first 737-8 flight last Friday, CEO Garvin Medera described the airplane type as, “the most technologically advanced aircraft in the world”.  He said it would afford the company lower fuel and maintenance costs while carrying more passengers. CAL has configured their 737-8s to carry 160 passengers in a two-class configuration.

Some of the pre-order meals available for purchase. [Images courtesy Caribbean Airlines]

The airline also announced the introduction of Economy Pre-Order Meals, available up to 36 hours before departure. For as little as US$8, passengers holding Economy Lite and Economy Classic fares will be able to choose from a menu offering Caribbean and Fusion cuisine—think doubles, coconut roast bake and saltfish, various sandwiches, and wraps. No word yet on just how many doubles you will get for the US$8, however. Kids meals are also available, starting from US$10.

Passengers holding Economy Flex tickets can pre-order meals at no additional cost. All Economy passengers will continue to receive complimentary beverages and snacks, while those seated in Business class will continue to receive complimentary meals.

Caribbean Airlines says pre-order meals are not available on domestic flights between Trinidad and Tobago or on flights that are less than one hour long, so pack a snack for short journeys.

The pre-order meal service begins on January 27th.