Breeze Airways launched its first-ever nonstop service between Nassau and Tampa yesterday, opening a new Florida gateway for Bahamian and international travelers, as tourism officials continue efforts to diversify airlift and expand access to key US markets.
The new route, which began operations this week, marks the airline’s entry into The Bahamas and provides direct service between Lynden Pindling International Airport and Tampa International Airport, the Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) said in a statement released yesterday.
Initially, the service will operate twice weekly on Thursdays and Sundays before expanding to four weekly flights beginning in July.
Newly minted Minister of Tourism Glenys Hanna-Martin hailed the route as another step in strengthening visitor access to Nassau and Paradise Island from a market that has shown increasing interest in the destination.
“The arrival of Breeze Airways in Nassau marks a proud moment for The Bahamas,” said Hanna-Martin.
“This inaugural flight is a testament to what becomes possible when destinations and airlines share a common vision for growth.”
She added: “We are grateful to the Breeze team for their confidence in our destination, and we look forward to a partnership that brings more travelers to our shores and more opportunity to our people.”
Nassau and Paradise Island Promotion Board CEO Joy Jibrilu said demand from the Tampa market has been increasing in recent months.
“Interest from the Tampa market continues to rise, with visits to NassauParadiseIsland.com increasing by 45 percent, signaling a growing appetite for the destination,” said Jibrilu.
“This new route provides travelers with a seamless and convenient way to experience our world-class resorts, vibrant culture, culinary offerings, and warm Bahamian hospitality.”
The launch negates the need for connection gateways like Miami and Orlando for people on Florida’s west coast, creating additional opportunities for leisure and business travel to The Bahamas.
NAD President and CEO Vernice Walkine said the route enhances connectivity between The Bahamas and Florida’s Gulf Coast.
“The addition of Breeze Airways reflects continued confidence in The Bahamas as a destination, and supports our broader goal of improving connectivity in growing markets,” Walkine said.
Founded by aviation entrepreneur David Neeleman, Breeze Airways currently serves more than 300 seasonal and year-round routes across 88 cities in the United States, Mexico, Central America and the Caribbean, the NAD statement said.
“Nassau is a premiere Caribbean destination we know our guests will love,” Neeleman said.
“We’re thrilled to make Tampa more accessible than ever for our guests, making travel to Tampa more convenient and accessible.”
The statement said the airline operates a fleet of Airbus A220-300 aircraft, and has positioned itself as a low-cost carrier offering additional premium services. The company was recently named to Time Magazine’s list of the 100 Most Influential Companies for 2026, and was recognized by the Airline Passenger Experience Association as North America’s best major airline.
