Frontier Airlines Celebrates Dominican Wildlife with New Aircraft Design
Frontier Airlines, the renowned ultra-low fare carrier, marked a significant moment with the introduction of their latest A321neo aircraft, showcasing an extraordinary tail design featuring Domingo and Andrea, the Hispaniolan parakeets. This initiative pays tribute to the Dominican Republic, a key destination partner, highlighting the airline's commitment to environmental conservation and promoting the unique wildlife of the regions it serves.
Frontier Airlines, known for its distinctive animal-themed tail designs, has chosen the Hispaniolan parakeet, a species native to Hispaniola, to represent the Dominican Republic. This medium-sized parakeet, also referred to as the perico or periquito, thrives in a variety of habitats but is currently listed as vulnerable due to significant threats like habitat destruction and the pet trade. The airline's decision to feature Domingo and Andrea on the new aircraft not only honors these vibrant creatures but also raises awareness about their conservation.
The names of the featured parakeets, Domingo and Andrea, carry profound significance. Domingo reflects the capital city of the Dominican Republic, Santo Domingo, fostering a deep connection with the country. Andrea pays homage to Andrea Thomen, a dedicated scientist leading efforts to safeguard the parakeet and its natural habitats, emphasizing the airline's support for environmental protection initiatives.
Frontier's operations in the Dominican Republic are extensive, with flights connecting Santo Domingo and Punta Cana to numerous cities across the United States. This expansive service underscores the airline's role in facilitating travel and tourism between these destinations, contributing to the mutual growth and prosperity of both the airline and the Dominican Republic.
Tyri Squyres, Frontier Airlines' Vice President of Marketing, expressed enthusiasm about the new aircraft, stating, "We are thrilled to introduce this new aircraft that honors the treasured pericos of Hispaniola and our very important destination partner the Dominican Republic. Our mission is to bring attention to threatened animal species throughout North America and we take pride in shining a light on these beloved, colorful parakeets that bring such joy to the people of the Dominican Republic."
Echoing this sentiment, Fernando J. Abreu, Director of Airline Relations of the Dominican Republic Ministry of Tourism, highlighted the significance of the initiative, "The choice to celebrate our endemic Hispaniolan parakeets, locally known as the pericos or periquitos, by naming a plane ‘Domingo and Andrea the Hispaniolan Parakeets,’ reflects a deep understanding of the unique natural treasures the Dominican Republic holds. We extend our sincere gratitude to Frontier Airlines for recognizing the allure of our natural wonders and their impact on tourism."
This initiative by Frontier Airlines not only celebrates the beauty and uniqueness of the Dominican Republic's wildlife but also underscores the importance of conservation efforts. By integrating these themes into their aircraft design, Frontier Airlines invites travelers to explore the wonders of the Dominican Republic, engage in bird watching, and support environmental conservation, making every journey with the airline a testament to the beauty and resilience of the natural world.