American Airlines Flight 2580, piloted by Antiguan Captain Brian Chase, arrived at VC Bird International Airport well ahead of schedule and was greeted with a warm welcome on Monday afternoon.

The aircraft, which had traveled from Miami, received a water cannon salute on the tarmac before making its way to the gate.

As the aircraft approached the airbridge, Captain Chase opened the cockpit window to wave the Antigua and Barbuda flag.

Upon arrival at the gate, Captain Chase was greeted by a group of flag-waving enthusiasts composed of members from the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, American Airlines, and the media.

Tourism Minister Charles Max Fernandez also gave him a warm embrace.

During the reception held in the VIP Lounge, Governor General Sir Rodney Williams expressed his delight at being part of the welcoming party for Captain Chase, whom he had watched grow up and develop from childhood.

He noted that despite coming from a small island, Captain Chase had achieved great things by becoming a captain at American Airlines.

Minister Fernandez also spoke at the reception, noting that Captain Chase’s arrival was significant for him as he was the first officer on the first flight into the country after the COVID-19 closure.

Captain Chase, who has been in the aviation industry for 22 years, started his career at Carib Aviation before moving on to LIAT, US Airways, American Eagle, and America Airlines.

He dedicated the flight to his late mother and thanked his family and others for their support. He also expressed a desire to mentor young people by inviting them to contact him to discuss matters of concern.

Overall, the arrival of American Airlines Flight 2580, piloted by Antiguan Captain Brian Chase, was a joyous occasion that brought a sense of pride and hope to the people of Antigua and Barbuda.