Bahamas Seeks Air Connectivity With Colombia

During the week of 13 – 19 March, Steven Johnson, General Manager of the Ministry of Tourism – Grand Bahama, traveled to Medellín, Cali and Bogotá, Colombia, to participate in the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism Sales Mission. Johnson deemed the one-week conference a huge success and shared plans proposed for the launch of direct flights from the Latin American country.

Johnson revealed that plans are on the drawing board for the launch of direct air service from Bogotá into Grand Bahama, during the latter part of 2022, however plans are still ongoing. He also noted that the conference hosted by the Ministry in Colombia featured dynamic educational seminars and meaningful discussions with travel agents who expressed strong interest in Grand Bahama Island.

“The trip was very successful,” said Johnson. “In our promotional outreach to Colombia, we targeted media personnel, top producing travel agents, as well as tour operators and wholesalers. We organized a series of educational seminars for media and travel trade professionals, hosted them to breakfast and lunch and held a few dinners seminars as well. It was a very successful event.”

Added Johnson: “We are looking forward to coordinating a touristic program on the ground in Grand Bahama, for the Latin American market, one that involves direct airlift out of Colombia. In the meantime, starting this summer, flight operators from Colombia anticipate bringing in a smaller flight of 20 seats once or twice a week from Colombia, connecting through Miami and then onto Freeport, but plans are not yet confirmed. There are lots of opportunities in Latin America, and a once or twice weekly flight out of Colombia would assist us toward filling our hotel inventory. Travel consumers in Latin America are eager to explore the range of experiences on offer in Grand Bahama, from fishing, diving, boating, romance, and sustainable tourism product.”

The tourism professional pointed out that the strong demand for travel among Latin Americans is an opportunity on which tourism stakeholders in Grand Bahama can readily capitalize. Grand Bahama, he noted, is an exciting destination that is ideal for travelers of all ages, and well suited for Latin Americans who can be described as people who love to enjoy themselves.

Johnson concluded, “Latin Americans are family oriented, and we really believe that Grand Bahama has the kind of product that they are looking for, from North to South to East to West. We have the foodie experience here and all the activities and tours that they can enjoy.”