Bimini Is The Latest Stop In The Bahamas For American Airlines

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BIMINI, THE BAHAMAS – Bimini is celebrating the arrival of it’s newest American, American Airlines.

America’s flagship airline expanded service to another destination in The Bahamas today, with nonstop service between Miami and Bimini.

The air service is bringing more than just passengers but also the hope of more stopover visitors and economic opportunities.

Our Delvardo Emmanuel has more from Bimini tonight.

Under clear blue skies, American Airlines touched down in South Bimini Saturday, marking the start of a brand-new direct link between Miami and the island known as the gateway to The Bahamas.

The inaugural flight was welcomed with applause, excitement and in many ways hope and described as a major step forward for Bimini.

The new service will operate three times weekly, Mondays, Wednesdays and Saturdays aboard an Embraer 175 aircraft.

The plane has a passenger load of 76 with 30 minutes of flight time.

Managing Director of Operations for Mexico, Central America, Canada and The Caribbean, Jose Giraldo, says this launch builds on a relationship that spans more than three decades.

“ From Miami, our largest hub, our customers can access more than 400 peak day departures to more than 170 destinations in 46 countries around the world. Importantly, with today’s launch, we will probably be the only US air link serving bimini as we are thrilled to announce that this summer America will operate up to 35 daily flights to the Bahama. A true milestone for the airline.” – Jose Giraldo

With Bimini now the eighth Bahamian destination served by American Airlines, officials say this signals continued international confidence in The Bahamas’ tourism product.

Tourism Minister Chester Cooper says the new route isn’t just about convenience, it’s about opportunity.

“ This is significant for the quality of life of our residents. It’s significant for the tourism product. It’s really important for expanding stop over, uh, gas to our islands. It fits and it aligns with our strategy and it supports everyone who is participating in tourism on this island. The vendors, the taxis, the tour operators, the restaurants, the entertainment, all of the experiences “ – Chester Cooper

Passengers on that first flight like Miami resident Oscar Valmana and first-time visitor Brian Wilmington from arizona, say the convenience is what stands out most.

“ I think it’s great. I mean, having this possibility, the island is beautiful and, you know, I’m sure that, um, lots of people are gonna enjoy having this new flight coming here.“- Oscar Valmana

“ It’ll make it a lot easier when we come back. I mean, you figure two hour ferry versus, you know, an hour flight or a 45 minute flight. So it, it’s convenience and we always fly American.” – Brian Wilmington