American Airlines Makes Aviation History with First-Ever U.S. Nonstop Service to Bimini
NASSAU, THE BAHAMAS – The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation has announced a groundbreaking development in Caribbean aviation connectivity. American Airlines has launched the first-ever nonstop service from the United States to Bimini, creating a direct link between Miami International Airport (MIA) and South Bimini Airport (BIM) that began operations on February 14, 2026.
A New Gateway to Island Paradise
This historic service represents a significant milestone for The Bahamas' tourism infrastructure, providing travelers with seamless, nonstop access to what is often called The Gateway to The Bahamas. The new route operates on Mondays, Wednesdays, and Saturdays, with morning departures from Miami at 10:05 a.m. arriving in Bimini at 10:55 a.m. local time. Return flights depart Bimini at 11:40 a.m., arriving back in Miami at 12:30 p.m., all operated using Embraer E-175 aircraft.
"This is a game-changer for Bimini," declared the Hon. I. Chester Cooper, Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. "This nonstop connection with a major U.S. city not only enhances accessibility but also signals a new phase of growth for the island's economy. It is a testament to our ongoing efforts to elevate our tourism product and to partner with world-class airlines to meet global demand for our diverse islands."
Strategic Infrastructure Investments
The launch coincides with substantial infrastructure improvements at South Bimini International Airport through an $80 million Public-Private Partnership agreement. This two-phase upgrade project includes:
- Modernization of airport facilities to support increased domestic and international commercial flights
- Construction of a state-of-the-art passenger terminal
- Airfield improvements and terminal upgrades
- Enhanced customer service capabilities
This development is part of the broader Family Islands Renaissance Project, which targets improvements across 14 airports throughout The Bahamas archipelago. The initiative aims to drive economic growth in Bimini while improving the overall visitor experience.
Expanding Caribbean Connectivity
José María Giraldo, Managing Director of Operations for Mexico, Canada, the Caribbean, and Central America at American Airlines, emphasized the strategic importance of this new route: "This new service between Miami and Bimini further enhances connectivity to The Bahamas through our largest international gateway and reinforces our position as the leading U.S. carrier in the country. With the addition of our seventh destination in The Bahamas, we reaffirm our long-term commitment to the market."
American Airlines, which has served The Bahamas for 36 years, plans a 24% increase in capacity this summer. The airline will operate up to 35 daily flights from the United States to seven Bahamian destinations:
- Nassau (NAS)
- Marsh Harbour (MHH)
- Freeport (FPO)
- Governor's Harbour (GHB)
- Eleuthera (ELH)
- George Town (GGT)
- Bimini (BIM)
Tourism Boost for The Out Islands
Mrs. Latia Duncombe, Director General of The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation, highlighted the broader implications: "The launch of American Airlines' nonstop service to Bimini underscores the island's growing appeal as a premier destination. This new connection will boost visitor arrivals, strengthen tourism, and provide travelers with a seamless pathway to experience the charm and authenticity of our Out Islands."
The Bahamas, comprising over 700 islands and cays just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, offers world-class fishing, diving, boating, and thousands of miles of spectacular beaches. This new air service provides easier access to Bimini's crystal-clear waters, renowned fishing spots, and authentic island charm, positioning The Bahamas for continued tourism growth in the competitive Caribbean market.
