NASSAU, Bahamas – The National carrier, Bahamasair will be stepping in to fill the gap follow in the collapse of the Florida based carrier – Silver Airways beginning June 23.
According to Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper , the government is moving quickly to restore the Florida-Bahamas air routes.
Silver Airways abruptly ceased operations on June 11 after filing for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, disrupting service to several key destinations, including North Eleuthera, Governor’s Harbour, Exuma, Marsh Harbour, Bimini, Freeport, and New Providence.
“Regrettably, yesterday we saw the collapse of Silver Airways that services many of our islands from cities in Florida. We regret this and that it has caused some inconvenience,” MCooper said.
“These routes were very vital for Bahamians living on the islands, as well as for visitors,” he added.
He said the Ministry of Tourism is also in discussions with other carriers to bolster service.
He also confirmed that Makers Air will provide daily direct service to New Bight, Cat Island, and increase frequency to Long Island.
“These enhancements are directly tied to our mission-driven marketing efforts and reflect growing demand for our more untouched, authentic island destinations,” he said.
In addition to the regional response, the ministry is working to expand international airlift, particularly from Canada. New flights have been secured from Toronto, Montreal, Halifax, Calgary, Hamilton, and Ottawa, through partnerships with Sunwing, Air Canada, and WestJet.
Cooper said the new routes are intended to open more of the Canadian market and improve access to the Family Islands.
