The History of Bahamasair

Bahamasair is an airline that connects The Bahamas with the surrounding islands, as well as the wider Caribbean and the USA. The airline was founded in 1973 as a way to connect the capital of Nassau with the 'Family of Islands', which before were remote and hard to reach. The founders of the airline wished to develop the tourism industry in the area without relying on foreign companies.

The company's first flight departed on the 18th June 1973, travelling from Nassau to Freeport on Grand Bahama Island. Services to Port-au-Prince in Haiti and Orlando Florida quickly followed. During the next few years the company particularly expanded to American destinations, such as Washington D.C, Newark, Tampa and Philadelphia.

The company made history in 1984 by hiring its first female pilot Patrice Clarke-Washington. Clarke-Washington then went on to become the first female African-American major airline captain.

Throughout the 1990s and 2000s, Bahamasair introduced services to Providenciales, the Turks & Caicos Islands, Cuba and the Dominican Republic. Today the airline serves many domestic routes between Abaco, San Salvador, Exuma and many more, with several international services too.

Today, the airline is based at Lynden Pindling International Airport and has a fleet of eight planes and the slogan "We don't just fly there, we live there". They updated their fleet of planes in 1950 to include new ATR 72-600 models. They are known for their friendly, warm service; their customer service and cabin crew often receive favourable reviews. They also have a strong safety record.

Flying with Bahamasair

The planes offered by Bahamasair are fitted with only economy seating. There are no first or business class options available. There is a frequent-flyer service that offers four bands: Bronze, Silver, Gold and Platinum.

Bronze membership is awarded between 5,000 and 10,000 miles and includes discounts at participating stores and hotels. Silver membership is for flyers who have clocked up 10,001 to 15,000 miles and gives access to a dedicated check-in line. Gold membership is awarded for flyers with 15,001 to 20,000 miles and perks include pre-boarding and an allowance for a free second bag during non-peak season. Platinum members must have 20,000 miles and are offered a guaranteed seat and no deposit or transfer of points fees.

All the Practical Information You Need

Check-in information

The airline advises arriving at the airport around two hours before check-in. They also provide online check-ins with an electronic boarding pass.

Luggage Allowance:

• For carry-on baggage, passengers are allowed one personal item and one carry-on bag, which must measure 22 x 14 x 9 inches and 20 lbs or under. This is the case for all international and domestic flights.

• For checked baggage, each bag must not be larger than 157.48 cm in length, width and height. It must not be heavier than 22.73 kilos. The first bag is free, and each extra bag will encounter a fee.

• For more information on luggage allowances, including prices and how to transport sporting equipment, visit Bahamasair Baggage Rates and Optional Fees.