American cargo and charter carrier with a storied history.
Founded
1947
Headquarters
Miami, United States
Arrow Air was a United States-based cargo and charter airline that operated primarily in the Americas and Caribbean. Founded in 1947, the carrier specialized in freight transport and supplemental charter services, building a reputation as a major player in cargo operations during the latter half of the 20th century.
The airline is perhaps most tragically remembered for Arrow Air Flight 1285, a December 1985 crash in Gander, Newfoundland, Canada, that killed 256 people—one of Canada's deadliest aviation disasters. The aircraft, a DC-8, was carrying U.S. military personnel returning home from peacekeeping duties in the Sinai Peninsula.
Following financial difficulties and the fallout from the Gander disaster, Arrow Air went through bankruptcy and operational restructuring. The carrier eventually ceased operations in the early 2000s, marking the end of a decades-long presence in North American air cargo and charter markets.
Hubs & network
Arrow Air primarily operated through Miami International Airport as its main base of operations.
Fleet
Arrow Air operated a fleet primarily composed of McDonnell Douglas DC-8 freighter aircraft throughout much of its history.
Notable facts
- ›Arrow Air Flight 1285 crashed in Gander, Newfoundland on December 12, 1985, killing all 256 aboard.
- ›The Gander crash victims included 248 U.S. Army soldiers from the 101st Airborne Division.
- ›Arrow Air filed for bankruptcy protection multiple times, including in the late 1980s.
- ›The airline operated under the colorful callsign 'BIG A' and was known informally as 'The Big A'.
- ›Arrow Air ceased operations definitively in the early 2000s after decades of cargo and charter service.
This profile is provided for general information only. Contact details may be inaccurate or outdated — always verify with the airline's official website before acting on them.
