GlobalX and Sunrise Airways Form Wet-Lease Partnership to Boost Caribbean Air Connectivity

GlobalX and Sunrise Airways: Strategic Wet-Lease Partnership to Accelerate Caribbean Connectivity

The Airlines industry is witnessing a pivotal shift as airlines increasingly turn to flexible fleet solutions to support rapid expansion and evolving market demands. On October 15, 2025, Global Crossing Airlines Group, Inc. (GlobalX) announced a long-term wet-lease agreement with Sunrise Airways, marking a significant milestone for both carriers. This partnership is set to enhance regional connectivity and operational agility across the Caribbean and North American markets.

Wet-leasing, where one airline provides aircraft, crew, maintenance, and insurance (ACMI) to another, has become a preferred model for growth-oriented airlines seeking to scale quickly without committing to large capital expenditures. For GlobalX, this contract further cements its reputation as a leading ACMI provider. For Sunrise Airways, the deal provides critical capacity to power its ambitious “One Caribbean” network expansion, aimed at bridging island nations and major gateways in the Americas.

This article unpacks the details of the GlobalX–Sunrise Airways partnership, evaluates its strategic implications, and examines how such collaborations are reshaping the aviation landscape in the Caribbean and beyond.

Strategic Rationale Behind the Partnership

The agreement between GlobalX and Sunrise Airways is rooted in mutual strategic objectives. GlobalX, recognized as one of the fastest-growing charter airlines in the United States, is leveraging its operational expertise and growing fleet to provide comprehensive ACMI solutions. Sunrise Airways, a key regional player founded in 2012, is focused on realizing its “One Caribbean” vision, an initiative designed to improve air connectivity throughout the Caribbean archipelago.

Under the terms of the agreement, GlobalX will supply two dedicated Airbus A320 aircraft, each configured with 179 seats, to Sunrise Airways. The wet-lease service is scheduled to commence in November 2025, directly supporting Sunrise Airways’ efforts to strengthen its route network and enhance passenger experience. These aircraft will initially bolster existing routes, particularly between Florida and Cap-Haïtien, Haiti, with future plans to expand services to destinations such as Fort Lauderdale, New York, and additional key markets.

Sunrise Airways operates under three Air Operator Certificates (AOCs) in Haiti, the Dominican Republic, and the Eastern Caribbean, allowing it to navigate regulatory environments and serve a diverse range of markets. The addition of the two A320s will increase Sunrise’s fleet to 14 aircraft, with projections to reach 18 by the end of 2025. This move aligns with the airline’s recent expansions, including the launch of new routes in the Eastern Caribbean and planned services to North American cities.

“This partnership highlights GlobalX’s growing position as the ACMI provider of choice for airlines worldwide. By providing Sunrise Airways with flexible and dependable solutions for growth, we further showcase how our model creates meaningful value for airlines seeking efficiency, flexibility, and excellence in their operations.” — Ryan Goepel, President and CFO of GlobalX

Caribbean Connectivity and Market Expansion

The Caribbean region presents unique logistical challenges for airlines, given its fragmented geography and diverse regulatory frameworks. Sunrise Airways’ “One Caribbean” initiative seeks to address these hurdles by creating a cohesive network that connects island nations with each other and with major North-American markets. The integration of GlobalX’s A320 aircraft is a tactical step toward achieving this goal, offering increased capacity, operational reliability, and the ability to launch new routes swiftly.

Sunrise Airways’ fleet, as of August 2025, comprises a mix of Embraer EMB 120ER Brasilia, Embraer ERJ-145, British Aerospace Jetstream 32, and Cessna Caravan 208 aircraft. The introduction of the Airbus A320s represents a significant upgrade in terms of passenger volume and range, enabling the airline to serve high-demand routes and tap into underserved markets. Sunrise currently operates over 20 gateways across the Americas, with hubs at Toussaint Louverture International Airport in Haiti and V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua.

The wet-lease arrangement also supports Sunrise’s broader strategy to expand its footprint in North America. Recent developments include the launch of services to Miami and upcoming routes to Fort Lauderdale and Montreal. By leveraging GlobalX’s operational expertise and fleet, Sunrise can accelerate its growth trajectory while maintaining service quality and regulatory compliance.

“The integration of these two dedicated aircraft represents a significant milestone in our ‘One Caribbean’ strategic plan. This move underscores Sunrise’s commitment to enhancing the customer experience and improving connectivity to and within the Caribbean region.” — Gary Stone, CEO of Sunrise Airways

Financial and Operational Impact

The partnership is underpinned by strong financial performance on both sides. GlobalX reported a Q2 2025 revenue of $61.4 million, marking a 7% increase from the previous year. Net income doubled year-over-year to $0.6 million, and the company achieved a 6% increase in EBITDAR to $19.8 million. Operationally, GlobalX generated a record 8,065 block hours in Q2 2025, reflecting robust demand for its ACMI services. The carrier also increased its pilot headcount by 7% to 150, ensuring adequate staffing for its expanding fleet.

For Sunrise Airways, the addition of the A320s is part of a broader fleet modernization and expansion plan. The airline anticipates operating 18 aircraft by the end of 2025, supporting its goal of becoming a leading regional connector. The wet-lease model allows Sunrise to scale operations efficiently, minimizing upfront capital expenditures and enabling rapid response to market opportunities.

Industry experts note that wet-leasing is increasingly seen as a strategic lever for airlines facing volatile demand, regulatory complexities, or capital constraints. By partnering with established ACMI providers like GlobalX, airlines can access modern aircraft, experienced crews, and comprehensive support services without the long lead times associated with traditional fleet acquisition.

“Everything we do centers on our One Caribbean philosophy… More than an abstract feeling or loose brand positioning, One Caribbean guides and informs our mission to better connect the entire Caribbean region.” — Philippe Bayard, Founder and Chairman of Sunrise Airways

Recent Developments and Industry Trends

GlobalX has recently shifted its fleet strategy from exclusively leasing aircraft to adopting a hybrid ownership model, acquiring its first Airbus A320 in July 2025. This transition provides greater operational flexibility and positions the company to better meet the evolving needs of its partners. The move also reflects a broader industry trend toward diversified fleet management practices, as airlines seek to balance financial prudence with growth ambitions.

Sunrise Airways’ expansion into North America is part of a deliberate effort to connect diaspora communities and strengthen economic and cultural ties between the Caribbean and major U.S. and Canadian cities. The airline’s new services to Miami, Fort Lauderdale, and Montreal are expected to drive passenger growth and enhance the overall competitiveness of its network.

Looking ahead, the success of the GlobalX–Sunrise Airways partnership may serve as a blueprint for other regional carriers seeking to expand through strategic wet-lease arrangements. As market dynamics continue to evolve, such collaborations are likely to play an increasingly central role in shaping the future of air travel in the Caribbean and beyond.

Conclusion: Implications and Future Outlook

The long-term wet-lease agreement between GlobalX and Sunrise Airways is more than a transactional partnership; it is a strategic alliance designed to unlock new growth opportunities and address longstanding connectivity challenges in the Caribbean. By combining GlobalX’s ACMI expertise with Sunrise’s regional vision, both carriers are well-positioned to capitalize on emerging market trends and deliver enhanced value to passengers.

As the aviation sector continues to navigate economic uncertainties and shifting consumer preferences, flexible fleet solutions like wet-leasing will remain integral to operational resilience and expansion. The GlobalX–Sunrise Airways collaboration exemplifies how innovative business models and cross-border partnerships can drive industry transformation, setting the stage for a more connected and competitive Caribbean air travel market in the years ahead.

FAQ

What is a wet-lease agreement?
A wet-lease agreement is an arrangement where one airline provides aircraft, complete crew, maintenance, and insurance (ACMI) to another airline, allowing the lessee to operate the aircraft under its own branding and route network without owning the assets.

How will the GlobalX–Sunrise Airways partnership impact Caribbean travelers?
The partnership is expected to improve connectivity within the Caribbean and between the region and key North American markets, offering more route options and increased capacity for travelers.

When will the new aircraft begin service for Sunrise Airways?
The two dedicated Airbus A320 Commercial-Aircraft provided by GlobalX are scheduled to commence service for Sunrise Airways in November 2025.

What are the main benefits for Sunrise Airways in this agreement?
Sunrise Airways gains access to modern, high-capacity aircraft without significant upfront investment, supporting its rapid network expansion and ability to launch new routes efficiently.

How does this agreement fit into GlobalX’s broader Strategy?
The deal reinforces GlobalX’s position as a preferred ACMI provider and supports its growth trajectory by expanding its service portfolio and client base in the Caribbean and beyond.

Sources:
Press Release,
Sunrise Airways Official Site,
GlobalX Official Site