About PY
Suriname Airways, operating under the IATA code PY, is the flag carrier of Suriname — a small, proudly independent airline built around one of South America's most geographically isolated capitals. This is a regional carrier in character, though its network punches beyond what that label usually implies. From its main hub at Johan Adolf Pengel International in Paramaribo (PBM), PY threads together a collection of Caribbean and South American destinations that most large carriers simply don't bother with, while also maintaining a long-haul lifeline to Amsterdam (AMS) — a route that stretches 7,525 kilometres and reflects Suriname's deep Dutch colonial history.
Why fly PY?
The honest case for flying PY comes down to geography. If you're moving between Suriname, Guyana, Curaçao, or Aruba, PY often isn't just the best option — it's the only direct one. That matters enormously when the alternative is routing through a hub in Bogotá or Miami and losing half a day. The PBM-AMS route deserves particular mention: it connects Paramaribo's Surinamese diaspora directly to the Netherlands, and for that specific community of travelers it carries real cultural weight, not just convenience. With 18 non-stop routes across 8 airports and a total network spanning nearly 37,000 kilometres, PY covers this corner of the Atlantic world more thoroughly than any competitor bothers to.
PY hub airports
- PBM Paramaribo — 5 PY routes from Suriname
- CUR Curacao — 3 PY routes from Curaçao
- GEO Georgetown — 3 PY routes from Guyana
- MIA Miami — 2 PY routes from USA
- AUA Aruba — 2 PY routes from Aruba
Top destination countries on PY
- Suriname — 5 PY routes
- Guyana — 3 PY routes
- Curaçao — 3 PY routes
- Aruba — 2 PY routes
- USA — 2 PY routes
- Barbados — 1 PY routes
- Netherlands — 1 PY routes
- Brazil — 1 PY routes
Tips for booking PY
Book early on the PBM-AMS route — capacity is limited and fares climb steeply as departure approaches. If you're connecting through Curaçao (CUR) or Georgetown (GEO), build in generous layover time; these are smaller operations where delays can cascade quickly. PY isn't part of a major global alliance, so don't count on accruing miles with your preferred frequent-flyer program. Baggage allowances and fare-class rules can be opaque on the website, so call the airline directly if you're carrying anything unusual. First-time flyers should also note that MIA serves as a secondary hub — useful if you're positioning from North America before heading into the Caribbean or Suriname.
Frequently asked questions about PY
Where does PY airline fly?
PY operates 18 routes primarily serving the Caribbean and South American regions, with a focus on Suriname, Guyana, and Curaçao as top destinations.
What is PY's main hub airport?
PY's main hub is Paramaribo (PBM), which serves as the primary connection point for their regional network.
What type of airline is PY?
PY is a regional carrier focused on connecting smaller Caribbean and South American destinations with a concentrated network of 18 routes.
When should I book a flight with PY?
For regional Caribbean routes, booking 2-4 weeks in advance typically offers better fares; however, availability can vary seasonally, so early booking is recommended during peak travel periods.
What are PY's baggage and check-in policies?
Specific baggage allowances and check-in procedures vary by fare type and route; it's best to check PY's official website or contact their customer service for detailed information regarding your booking.