News
Air Marshall Islands accepted first of two Cessna SkyCourier aircraft
May 8th 2026
Last week, Air Marshall Islands (AMI) welcomed in Majuro the first of two ordered Cessna SkyCourier airplanes. Read More » The aircraft was officially blessed earlier this week at the Air Marshall Islands hangar, during a ceremony in which AMI staff performed several dances to welcome the new airplane. The delivery of the second aircraft is expected in a month. “For many, this may look like just an aircraft. But for the people of the Marshall Islands, it means so much more. A mother on an outer island can reach medical care in time. A student can travel to pursue education. Essential goods can reach communities that depend on them,” Air Marshall Islands CEO Albon Jelke said. The newly received aircraft is equipped with 19 seats, the same number as the two Dornier 228 aircraft that Air Marshall Islands has been using for the last 40 years. The newly added aircraft can carry 5000 pounds more cargo than a Dornier. “Today, with the arrival of this first Cessna SkyCourier, we begin a new chapter defined by action, not excuses. This aircraft is a workhorse for the nation. Equipped with 19 seats and expanded cargo capacity, this aircraft is designed for the realities of our islands. It strengthens safety, reduces maintenance burdens, and restores the reliability our communities deserve,” said the president of the Marshall Islands, Hilda Heine. “The goal behind purchasing the new Cessnas carries the same purpose as those of the ancient navigators who sailed outrigger canoes connecting island communities. To keep our people connected, to keep our nation whole, and to ensure that no Marshallese community is ever left behind,” she added. The two aircraft were purchased by AMI directly from Cessna for $20.3 million. The US offered the subvention of $8.3 million, which is going to pay down the loan, while the remaining $12m will be covered by AMI with the help of a concessional low-interest loan by Taiwan with a five-year grace period on repayment, and 20 years to repay the balance at a rate of 1.5% interest per year, Radio New Zealand (RNZ) reported.
