US aviation is mourning the passing of David Bassett, founder of Amerijet International Airlines.
He founded the carrier in 1974 and led it for more than 40 years, transforming a small, single-aircraft air taxi operation into a leading international cargo carrier serving the Caribbean, Central, and South American markets.
In the early days he was not only the founder, but also the pilot and, through vision, perseverance, and loyal partnerships, he created a company that became a recognized and trusted name across the US and the Americas.
His passion for aviation began as a young man, where he spent part of his early life in Guyana, where his family served as missionaries. There, he learned to fly and helped repair aircraft on remote jungle airstrips, often under difficult conditions. He later joined the United States Air Force, before returning to South Florida to pursue his vision in aviation.
He was also a foundational figure in the air cargo industry. When Amerijet was founded in the 1970s, most freight was still transported in the belly compartments of passenger
Aircraft and dedicated cargo airlines were only beginning to emerge. Dave Bassett recognized early the growing need for reliable dedicated cargo service and built Amerijet in specialized regional markets that were often underserved.
By 1976 the company transitioned to a dedicated freight carrier, supporting the rapid growth of overnight courier networks. In the late 1970s and early 1980s, Amerijet expanded its operations and began flying contracts for major courier companies including Purolator, FedEx, UPS, DHL, and Airborne Express.
In 1982, he acquired full ownership of the company and the airline continued expanding its aircraft fleet, flight operations, and logistics capabilities, eventually establishing its primary hub at Miami International Airport in 1987.
From Miami, Amerijet built a cargo network connecting the Caribbean, Mexico, Central America, and South America, which remain core to the airline’s network today.
He cultivated close partnerships with customers, agents, and partners throughout the region, many of whom became lifelong friends. Under his leadership, Amerijet developed a reputation not only for reliable service, but also for standing by the Caribbean and Latin American markets during difficult times, supporting communities during hurricanes, natural disasters, and other emergencies by helping move critical supplies and humanitarian aid.
Many individuals who joined Amerijet early in their careers developed professionally under his guidance, building long-term careers and leadership roles within the company.
He and his wife Kandee built a culture defined by loyalty, respect, hard work, and genuine care for employees and customers.
Beyond aviation, he will be remembered as a man of strong character, faith, and generosity, a loving husband and a devoted father.
His contributions to aviation were widely recognized. In 2013, he received the prestigious Wright Brothers Memorial Award, presented by the Greater Miami Aviation Association for a lifetime contribution to commercial aviation safety.
Earlier, in 2007, he was honored with the Juan Trippe Award, recognizing his significant contributions to the development of international aviation.
He is survived by his wife, Kandee, and his three daughters, as well as many friends, colleagues, and members of the aviation community whose lives he touched throughout his remarkable life and career.
Christine Richard former director of marketing, Amerijet International Airlines and board member, director, Miami Air Cargo Association.
