The Good News And Bad News Of American’s New Codeshare With Seaborne
Maybe this should be titled the bad news, good news and bad news. Because the bad news in the first place is that American Airlines gutted its presence out of San Juan, Puerto Rico where they used to have a bunch of flights to all over the Caribbean. They consolidated a lot of the flights out of Miami which also has its goods and bads. But, more choices is always better, which is why it’s ultimately a good thing that American announced a codeshare with Seaborne Airlines today.
In two cases (DOM and VIJ) this is actually new service. All others augment existing service to/from Miami.
Now, the bad news (again):
Can’t tell you the last time I saw a Twin Otter. Seaborne flies 15 seat and 19 seat puddle jumpers. I’m sure they’re safe. Well, I’m not sure. I hadn’t heard of Seaborne before today. There are no notes of any safety issues, some quirky schedule issues and one note they were getting Saab 340 Turboprops which are probably bigger.
Anyway, more options always better, though you won’t find me on a 15-seater any time soon unless it’s a really special destination with no jet service. I did my years on the turboprops and I’m happy to leave those memories where they are.
Those small planes can be fun, particularly when flying over islands! One of my most memorable flights was in a deHavilland Beaver from the west coast of British Columbia to Seattle and we spent a significant amount of them time under 400 feet! It was so much fun! Most of the people on the plane fell asleep including the passenger in the right seat! I could not understand how that was possible. I had half a mind to ask the pilot to land so I could trade seats with the bum.
I need to go back and look at some photos.
Charlie, we may have different ideas of fun. 🙂
I’ve had fun on small plane flights but usually when I had a better knowledge of the pilot and airworthiness than a carrier I’ve never heard of before.
It was really sad when AA pulled all their Caribbean destinations. They used to have the most slots at SJU and Jet Blue occupies that title now. All this happened as I was moving off the island.
I do have to say that I really do like those small planes. The view is beautiful and if you are lucky enough to get the seat next to the pilot you have an unobstructed view that is awesome. While I prefer to be on AA metal because I have status, etc I do like the small planes Seaborne flies because they fly low with spectacular views and the flights are short.
FrequentFlyerFairy, seems like you have the same penchant for “fun” that Charlie does. I get both of your points but I’m still likely to choose the bigger plane from an airline I’m more familiar with. Call me crazy. 🙂
And, yes. I find it very sad that AA’s SJU operation is a shell of its former self.