Caribbean Airlines (CAL) has announced major changes to its regional operations, including the discontinuation of all services to Tortola, British Virgin Islands, and San Juan, Puerto Rico, effective January 10, 2026, as part of its ongoing Network Optimisation Programme.
The airline said the decision followed a “comprehensive evaluation” of route performance and resource allocation. Affected passengers will be contacted directly and issued full refunds where applicable.
As part of the programme, CAL will also restructure its Barbados hub from February 2026, shifting aircraft and crew to operate primarily out of Trinidad, while maintaining connectivity across the Northern and Eastern Caribbean. Acting CEO Nirmala Ramai said the changes are necessary to improve reliability, competitiveness, and ensure long-term sustainability.
“These changes form a critical part of our plan to deliver reliable service while managing our resources responsibly,” Ramai said. “Our customers remain our priority, and these adjustments ensure strong regional connectivity supported by a sustainable operational model.”
The announcement comes amid scrutiny of CAL’s long-delayed audited financial statements. In October, it was reported that the airline finally submitted its 2016 accounts, nearly nine years late. The independent audit, conducted by KPMG Chartered Accountants, resulted in a qualified opinion, citing missing documentation and unverifiable financial items, including inventory valued at $137 million and $24 million in vacation leave liabilities.
For 2016, CAL reported a $695.4 million loss, raising its accumulated deficit to $2.175 billion. Audited statements for 2017–2024 remain outstanding, heightening concerns about the airline’s financial governance.
During the national budget presentation, Finance Minister Davendranath Tancoo defended the newly restructured board and criticised former finance minister Colm Imbert for years of approving financing for CAL without demanding accountability. Tancoo described previous management as having fuelled inefficiency and non-compliance, leaving the airline a “national liability.”
The announcement follows a major shake-up at CAL, with CEO Garvin Medera, CFO Varuna Kuarsingh, CCO Martin Aeberli, and corporate secretary Nalini Lalla resigning in recent weeks. Ramai has been appointed acting CEO, and the airline says it will conduct full audits of all departments, improve operational efficiency, enhance customer service, and implement a sustainable long-term growth plan, all while maintaining its flight schedule.
