EXECUTIVE AIRLINES
Executive Airlines established a Florida division in 1964 to balance the seasonal nature of its operation in New England. The airline flew de Havilland Twin Otters, Beechcraft B-99s, de Havilland Doves, and Convair 440s. The southern division was closed on December 9th, 1971.
The Beech 99 was Executive's primary aircraft type in Florida. This fantastic image taken at Executive's Florida home base of Sarasota was contributed by Shea Oakley.
The Beech 99 was Executive's primary aircraft type in Florida. This fantastic image taken at Executive's Florida home base of Sarasota was contributed by Shea Oakley.
De Havilland Dove N50S is pictured at Sarasota in 1969. Former Executive pilot Captain Joseph Haley told me the Dove was flown down "from the Northern Division to fly parts and extra crews around. It was never used for passenger service."
Twin Otters were used on STOL routes to Walt Disney World and St. Petersburg's downtown Whitted Airport. This is N389EX.
Executive Airlines route map from 1969. The airline would also later serve Marco Island, St. Petersburg (Whitted Airport) and the Walt Disney World STOLport.
Hourly STOL shuttle service between Tampa International Airport and St. Petersburg's downtown Albert Whitted Airport began in September 1971. This Twin Otter is pictured at Whitted Airport and the Bayfront Center auditorium is in the background.
Mickey Mouse looks on as Executive and Shawnee Airlines Twin Otters arrive at the Lake Buena Vista STOLport at Walt Disney World. Both airlines commenced service to the Disney STOLport on October 22, 1971 and Executive abruptly ended service less than two months later when the southern division was closed on December 9, 1971 .
This 1971 aerial view of the Walt Disney World STOLport shows a departing Executive Airlines Twin Otter (right above the 34).