The new air service, using SAAB 2000 aircraft, is a joint venture between long time airline investor Wexford Capital, Juneau-based Alaska Seaplanes, and McKinley Alaska Private Investment, LLC.

New Nonstop SAAB 2000 service returns to Unalaska/Dutch Harbor this fall with the formation of Aleutian Airways, a joint venture between veteran airline investors and operators.

Craford is the co-owner and President of Juneau-based commuter airline Alaska Seaplanes which will be marketing the flights under the Aleutian Airways brand.

Sterling Airways, a Part 121 US air carrier and portfolio company of Wexford Capital will operate the flights. Wexford has a long and successful track record as an operator of US air carriers, including Republic Airways.

Anchorage-based McKinley Alaska Private Investment, LLC is an investor in their Na’-Nuk Investment Fund, LP managed by McKinley Capital Management, LLC.  Together, this experienced team of industry professionals is positioned to make Aleutian the “Strongest Link in the Chain” and Southwest Alaska’s preferred airline.

The aircraft will be flown by former PenAir Saab 2000 pilots, seasoned Alaska-based crews with deep experience in the flying conditions of Southwest Alaska.

Further, Aleutian Airways will be reinstituting the PenAir pilot experience requirements for Dutch Harbor – bringing back industry-leading safety standards to the region.  Many former PenAir employees have already signed on to join Aleutian, from pilots to mechanics, flight attendants and ground personnel.

Aleutian Airways will be announcing its flight schedule later this month.