Aleutian Airways reached a major milestone this week as its newest aircraft, an ATR42-600 bearing tail number N406SV, officially entered scheduled passenger service and touched down in Kenai following its inaugural commercial flight from Anchorage.
The revenue flight on January 20, 2026, was operated by Argentum Airways under the Aleutian Airways brand, marking Argentum’s first commercial service and the formal arrival of a new airline brand in Alaska. The launch represents a key step in Aleutian Airways’ expansion and its efforts to strengthen air service along one of the state’s most vital travel corridors.
Aleutian Airways is a joint venture between Alaska Seaplanes and Sterling Airways, the latter owned by investment firm Wexford Capital. Argentum flights are operated by Sterling Airways, a Part 121 air carrier based in Jacksonville, Florida. All three brands share the same chief executive officer, Wayne Heller, who also holds a senior role with Wexford Capital.
The ATR42-600 is a modern turboprop aircraft designed for efficiency, reliability, and enhanced passenger comfort—qualities well suited to Alaska’s challenging operating environment. Operating under the Aleutian Airways brand, the aircraft is expected to improve connectivity between key communities while supporting the airline’s focus on safe and dependable service.
The broader airline group entered the Alaska market in 2022 and is now expanding to reach a wider range of passengers. The name “Argentum,” which means silver in Latin, is believed to reference the group’s acquisition of ATR aircraft formerly operated by Silver Airways…