Tropic Air and Maya Island Air have announced the suspension of scheduled flights to Caye Caulker, a small Caribbean island off the coast of Belize, with effect from October 1 onwards.
In a joint statement, the two Belizian operators said their decision was based on the state of the island's runway which, they said, exhibits severe deterioration.
"The present state of the runway at the island’s airstrip exhibits severe deterioration," they said. "As a result, this precautionary measure is necessary to avoid safety and operational challenges beyond acceptable margins for public flight service."
A request has since been submitted to the Belize Airports Authority and Caye Caulker’s Village Council for urgent renovation of the runway in order to meet the island’s approaching tourism high season.
"Air service will resume to Caye Caulker immediately after completion of necessary renovation works to rehabilitate the island’s airstrip," they added.
Cay Caulker Village, the island's only major settlement, is a popular destination for backpackers and other tourists featuring over thirty tiny hotels, and a number of restaurants and shops.
