Bermuda’s first and only independent airline is one step closer to launch after one of its two aircraft touched down on the island on Saturday night.

BermudAir's luxury Embraer 175 — kitted out to carry a maximum of only 30 passengers — arrived safely at LF Wade International Airport after departure from a small airport in Muskoka, Canada.

No date has been set for the commencement of commercial flights.

Last night, a company spokeswoman confirmed that the jet was now being examined “as part of the ongoing local regulatory process”.

The spokeswoman added: “It will be here for a few days, flying in and out of the island, then return to Canada for the completion of remaining operational launch preparations.

“This is another key milestone towards BermudAir's launch.”

BermudAir was granted an Air Operator Certificate by the Bermuda Civil Aviation Authority last month.

But the airline, which plans to run daily flights to New York, with additional flights to Boston and Florida, was not able to launch until it had gone through tough oversight procedures by US authorities.

Those approvals were granted by the US Department of Transportation this month.

BermudAir is the idea of Canadian banker Adam Scott. The company has additional backing from a host of high-profile Bermudians.

At a press conference last month, Mr Scott applauded the island’s air safety regulatory process.

He said: “Both the BCAA and BermudAir teams have put in a lot of hours to get here, and we appreciate everyone’s commitment throughout the process.

“We want to be Bermuda’s airline, and so we want to have Bermudians represented throughout the organisation.”

He added that BermudAir would strengthen Bermuda’s position as an international business hub and tourism destination.

He said: “In examining this unique market, we see the opportunity to provide premier service and deliver additional business and premium leisure travellers to Bermuda.

“We’re dedicated to providing exceptional service and will provide curated on-board offerings that will showcase the flavours of Bermuda, while reflecting the island’s renowned hospitality.”

The airline will cater to business-class-level flyers with its two leased Embraer 175s. Seat prices have not yet been disclosed.

Expected destinations include White Plains, New York — about 30 miles from midtown Manhattan and located in affluent Westchester County — Fort Lauderdale, Florida and Boston.

The plane that landed in Bermuda — registration VQ-BLU — was decorated with BermudAir’s colourful, aquatic-themed livery.