JAGS Aviation has emerged a leader in local aviation

Jun 29, 2026 Letters

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Dear Editor,

On Saturday June 20, Jags Aviation, an accredited subsidiary of BK Group of Companies, commissioned two 19-seat HAL 228 aircraft. purchased from the Hindustan Aeronautics Limited of India. Based on the proven Dornier 228 platform, the Hal 228 high-wing twin turboprop aircraft are designed specifically for rugged environments like Guyana. Their Short Takeoff and Landing (STOL) capability, and the ability to operate on short, unpaved hinterland air strips, coupled with excellent passenger capability, strong reliability and low operating cost per seat, means that they are perfectly suited for interior operations where conditions are tough and challenging and profit margins are tight.

Acquired by one of the most devoted, authentic, successful, competent and accomplished businessman Mr. Brian Tiwari, founder and executive chairman of BK Group of Companies in 2014 with just four aircraft, today, Jags Aviation fleet of aircraft has more than tripled in just over a decade. Mr. Tiwari’s bold vision to reduce cost and raise the standard of domestic and regional aviation will surely boost the aviation industry and Jags ongoing operations as well as its commitment to make a significant contribution to develop the tourist industry in Guyana.

The commissioning ceremony was held at the company’s Bradley Hangar at Ogle and the attendees include President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, Prime Minister Brigadier (Ret’d) Mark Phillips, Vice President Dr. Bharrat Jagdeo, members of Cabinet, diplomats and other distinguished guests, members of the private sector and Jags employees. There were several speakers, among them was Jags Accountable Manager Lieutenant Colonel Miguel Benjamin who told the audience that the acquisition of the two HAL 228 aircraft marks a strategic step towards modern efficiency and excellence in both regional and domestic air services. He stated that such huge investments contribute directly to the government’s broader vision of positioning Guyana as a leading aviation hub in the Caribbean. Benji as he is often called, explained that the aircraft are built for short-field performance and regional connectivity and that they are ideally suited for Guyana’s diverse and jagged terrain and remote airstrips. With seating capacity for 19 passengers, the aircraft offers a spacious, air-conditioned cabin, USB power ports, and an advanced avionics system which brings a new level of comfort and efficiency to local and regional air travel.

Managing Director of Jag’s Aviation, Ms. Briony Tiwarie-Gabriel explained to the audience that the new additions will enhance both domestic and regional connectivity, particularly in strengthening tourism links to the interior and other outlying areas of the country. She said that the expanded fleet of aircraft will improve accessibility to remote communities, facilitate increased passenger movement, and contribute to economic activity in the hinterland, regional markets and Guyana’s development. Ms. Tiwarie-Gabriel explained to the audience that Jags Aviation has always placed safety first and the two new HAL 228 aircraft have an excellent safety and reliable record.

BK Group of Companies Chief Executive Officer (CEO) Mr. Kyle Tiwarie remarked that the HAL 228 aircraft acquisition is a striking reminder that Jags Aviation is committed to commuter airworthiness standards and the safety of passengers. According to the CEO, the aircraft upgraded technology, and its modern twin engine are designed to support passenger travel, increased reliability and versatility, enhance pilot situational awareness, thus making the aircraft ideal for Guyana’s jungle environment in the hinterland regions of the country. Kyle praised Jags employees for their efficiency and for their outstanding achievements and expertise in high maintenance standards over the years. He ended his remarks by saying that the acquisition of the aircraft by Jags Aviation is a major step in strengthening its fleet and expanding its role in Guyana’s aviation landscape and that it marks a significant milestone in the company’s continued growth and expansion.

President Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali delivered the keynote address at the commissioning ceremony of the two new Hal 228 aircraft. He praised the Tiwarie family, especially the Executive Chairman of BK Group of Companies Brian Tiwarie for acquiring the two aircraft and for their continued ingenuity and vision to invest in human development. His Excellency commended the investment by Jags Aviation as a major step forward in modernising the aviation industry and improving connectivity to remote hinterland communities. President Ali noted that the acquisition aligns with his vision to lower passenger costs to the hinterland and that Jags aviation has positioned itself for new opportunities and perhaps the leader in the aviation industry. He highlighted his government’s 10-point plan for the aviation industry which includes new terminals, municipal airports, modernised hinterland airstrips, ego-tourism connectivity and a national aviation school, among others. The Head of State urged local aviation operators to invest in a regional carrier and transform Guyana into a regional aviation and maintenance hub. He officially challenged Hindustan Aeronautics to establish a commercial and maintenance hub in Guyana to serve the Caribbean and South American markets.

The ceremony concluded with the presentation of a portrait to Mr. Brian Tiwarie of his parents, Seelochanie Hargobin (mother) and Hargobin Tiwarie (father) the two aircraft named after them by Ms. Brioni Tiwarie-Gabriel, the Managing Director of Jags Aviation. It is important to mention that Brian Tiwarie aka BK, the founder and chairman of the BK Group of Companies and the former Honorary Council General of the Kingdom of Spain is the recipient of several national prestigious awards including A.A. (Cacique’s Crown of Honor), O.M.C. (Order of Roraima) and the Officer’s Cross of the Order of Civil Merit from King Felipe V1 of Spain, recognising his diplomatic service and his contributions to strengthening relations between Guyana and Spain. The event was well attended.

Sincerely,

Dr. Asquith Rose

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• Asquith Rose, aviation, Jags Aviation, Letters

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