A vacation to the Bahamas just got easier.
Bahamas-based Western Air is expanding with new flights connecting popular destinations in the islands and Florida. Western will begin flights connecting Freeport and Grand Bahama to Fort Lauderdale, Florida on August 22, 2024. Best of all, the airline offers free checked bags for the quick 25-minute flights, and customer-friendly ticket policies.
“Continuing in its trademark ticket flexibility, all Western Air tickets are valid for one year with the freedom to adjust your travel plans anytime without penalty or change fees,” the airline said in a press release.
The airline offers connecting service to other locations throughout the Bahamas including Bimini, Cat Island, Exuma, Marsh Harbour, Nassau, and San Andros.
Travel + Leisure spotted tickets for the new flight between Florida and Grand Bahama available for purchase on Western Air’s website for as low as $159 one-way. The daily flight from Grand Bahama International Airport to Fort Lauderdale departs at 9:30 a.m., arriving at 9:50 a.m., and the return takes back off for the Bahamas at 11:00 a.m., arriving into the Bahamas at 11:20 a.m..
The Bahamas is a collection of 16 major islands that span over 100,000 square miles. The islands are known for their postcard-like qualities with clear water, fine sand beaches, and unique outdoor adventures such as hiking or snorkeling.
More than 9.6 million travelers visited the Bahamas in 2023, which was a 38 percent increase over the previous year.
As a way to welcome visitors to the Bahamas, hotels and resorts are still offering unique deals and discounts. For example, Atlantis Paradise Island has an “Endless Summer” promotion where guests can receive a fourth night free, and up to $400 in resort credits.
The Bahamas Tourism Department also recently spotlighted deals available through the end of the year including the Viva Wyndham Fortuna Beach offering discounts on all-inclusive vacations, or discounts on day trips in the Exuma cays.