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A BIG STEP FOR BIMINI TOURISM
American Airlines’ decision to launch the only nonstop service from the U.S. to Bimini is a strategic shift for one of the Bahamas’ closest yet most logistically complicated Out Islands.
Beginning Feb. 14, the carrier will operate three weekly flights from Miami (Mondays, Wednesdays, Saturdays) aboard Embraer 175 aircraft, offering both premium and main cabin service. For advisors and their clients, the roughly 30-minute route shortens the path to a destination that has long intrigued U.S. travelers but required ferries, seaplanes or a Nassau connection to reach.
According to I. Chester Cooper, the Bahamas’ deputy prime minister and minister of tourism, investments and aviation, the launch of the service reflects a deliberate and long-term strategy.
“American Airlines’ new route to Bimini represents a strategic milestone of connectivity in the Bahamas’ broader push to diversify the visitor experiences available to travelers,” Cooper said. By tapping Miami, “one of the most connected hubs in the Americas,” Cooper said the government expects stronger short-stay and weekend traffic and a more resilient Out Island tourism economy.
The service launch coincides with the major redevelopment of South Bimini Airport, now under the stewardship of Bimini Airport Development Partners (BADP). Key airside upgrades (improving capacity, safety and regulatory compliance) have already been completed, with a new terminal and spacious departures lounge set to open in early 2026.
This investment is central to Bimini’s tourism trajectory. By pairing modernized infrastructure with nonstop airlift, The Bahamas is deliberately repositioning Bimini as a higher-value, more accessible Out Island option.
Cooper said the destination’s appeal is a strategic match for the Miami gateway and for traveler trends, noting the marine experiences, resorts and proximity to the U.S. mainland. He also mentioned that demand has been rising across segments like sport fishing, snorkeling, diving and niche experiential travel.
Cooper said he expects the streamlined travel experience to increase visitation by simplifying travel logistics and shortening journey times.
“More broadly, improved airlift to one Out Island helps raise awareness and demand for neighboring islands by making multisland itineraries and short transfers more practical,” he said.
Meanwhile, on-island operators are preparing for the practical effects. Fredrick Barr, director of resort operations at Resorts World Bimini, said the route removes the single greatest barrier the destination has faced.
“The biggest challenge was simply getting to Bimini. There were too many steps,” he said, citing reliance on ferries, seaplanes, or Nassau connections. “The new nonstop flight eliminates those issues. In about 30 minutes [from Miami], travelers can be soaking up the sun.”
