Captain Harrison Bothwell passes

A well respected bastion of Cayman’s aviation industry passed away on 27 April 2024 - Captain Harrison Bothwell, who, for almost five decades, was a revered Cayman Airways pilot.

Captain Bothwell’s flying career began at Cayman Airways on March 15, 1972 when he was hired by Norman Bodden, and he immediately began his training to become a pilot. Across his flying career, Captain Bothwell flew almost all aircraft types that Cayman Airways has had in its fleet, including, DC-8, DC-9, BAC 1-11, the DHC-6 Twin Otter, and the Boeing 737-300 jets. He retired from flying in 2012 with his last flight as Captain taking place on September 9, 2012. Following his retirement from flying, Captain Bothwell continued to work with Cayman Airways, overseeing the day-to-day operations of Cayman Airways Express. On December 31, 2020, after almost five decades of dedicated service to Cayman’s national airline, and to the Cayman Islands, Captain Bothwell entered full retirement.

Minister for Tourism and Ports, Kenneth Bryan, stated: “It is with profound sadness and a heavy heart that I extend my deepest condolences on behalf of the Ministry of Tourism and Ports, on the passing of Captain Harrison Bothwell, a stalwart aviator and a true icon of Cayman Airways. Captain Harrison’s distinguished career with Cayman Airways spanned almost five decades, and was marked by unwavering dedication, unparalleled expertise and an enduring passion for aviation.”

The Tourism Minister spoke of how Captain Bothwell embodied a spirit of excellence, soaring through the skies with grace and precision.

“Though he bid farewell to the cockpit in 2012, his legacy continued with CA Express, extending his remarkable career and contributions to both Cayman Airways and the Cayman Islands at large. Captain Harrison Bothwell was a seasoned aviator; a revered mentor, a trusted leader and a cherished friend.” He furthered. “As we mourn this loss of a true aviation pioneer, let us also celebrate his extraordinary life and legacy. May his memory be a source of comfort and inspiration to his family, friends, colleagues and all who had the privilege of knowing him. He will be deeply missed.”

Cayman Airways President and CEO, Fabian Whorms, also shared condolences on behalf of the national airline.

“To Captain Bothwell’s family - we share in your loss because he was also a special part of our Cayman Airways family, and he will be deeply missed and fondly remembered,” he said.