Roadblock for Waterway Air Services Pioneer

In an unexpected turn, the test flights that were originally scheduled by Isla Air Express for November between Ibiza and Mallorca have been postponed. What led to this startling decision and what does it mean for the waterway air services initiative? Here is the full story.

An ambitious plan halted

Isla Air Express, a Palma-based airline, had high hopes for their freshly envisioned seaplane transport solution. They placed more than eight million euros on the table, including costs for the acquisition of planes and related licenses. With a twin-propeller plane that accommodates 15 passengers, the airline hoped to establish a handpicked route between Palma de Mallorca and Ibiza City.

Unfortunately, the anticipated test flights on the 9th and 10th of November had to be canceled due to critical licensing for the routes were not granted by the Balearic Port Authority (APB). The flight plan is now delayed indefinitely as the airline waits for the green light from the authorities.

The long path to approval

The ongoing delay is particularly frustrating for Isla Air Express as they applied for these permissions five years ago. This project was not a small undertaking from the get-go, after all, the total investments already amount to over eight million euros.

Future plans despite setbacks

Despite these setbacks, Isla Air Express remains optimistic and is intent on carrying on with their plans. They aim to offer airway connections between Mallorca and Formentera, Ibiza, and Menorca in the future. These routes would provide a broader spectrum of alternative transportation avenues between the islands, enhancing the appeal of the Balearic Islands as a travel destination.

Isla Air is convinced that this new venture would boost the international prestige of the Balearics. They see this investment as a strategic asset for the region and are hopeful that circumstances will improve soon. Their website has already released the first flight connections and fans are eagerly waiting for the announcement of the new start date.

What does the future hold?

In future phases, Isla Air plans to provide even more travel opportunities. Flights between Ibiza and mainland Spain, specifically Alicante and Valencia, are envisaged. With such ambitious plans, it is to hope that this airline will be able to turn this vision into reality.

The story of Isla Air Express is emblematic of the challenges facing airlines in the modern transportation landscape. There may be setbacks, but the prospect of a future world with more options for inter-island transport keeps us all hoping.