NASSAU, BAHAMAS — For the Caribbean aviation industry to thrive, Deputy Prime Minister Chester Cooper emphasized that airlines must move beyond talk, collaborate effectively, and focus on actionable strategies to minimize losses and expand regional connectivity, with hopes that the Bahamas will become a hub attracting additional flights from Europe, the Middle East, South and Central America, and beyond.
Speaking on the sidelines of the 2025 Routes Americas Conference, Cooper emphasized that Caribbean interconnectivity must be driven by airlines, not politicians. He added that airlines must collaborate more effectively—“less talk, more action.”
“Airlines are losing money, and therefore, they must collaborate and bring technical expertise to minimize losses. They need to broaden their strategy and invest in the Caribbean region. The southern Caribbean will benefit through the work of CTO’s airlift strategy, and hopefully, the Bahamas will become a hub that attracts additional flights from Europe, the Middle East, South and Central America, and others,” said Cooper.
Cooper also addressed the Family Islands Airports Renaissance Project. “We have a 14-airport program totaling $300 million. We are executing an arrangement for the management of four airports, and once that is completed, we will make an announcement.”
He added: “Last week, we saw the extensive work already done on the airside in Exuma. We are wrapping that up soon and are already accelerating work in Bimini in partnership with a PPP. That work is progressing extremely well. Work is underway in Mayaguana, and soon we will begin projects in Long Island and Black Point. Black Point will soon open a gateway for the expansion of the Exuma Cays, improving both tourist arrivals and local travel. It will also have the capacity to serve as a point of entry. Travelers through the Exuma Cays will no longer need to clear Customs in Georgetown or elsewhere but will begin their stay directly in the Exuma Cays.”
Cooper noted that currently, the Long Island airport cannot accommodate a full flight from Bahamasair due to logistical issues. Once these are resolved, it will reopen the gateway for more guest arrivals. He emphasized that airport development would undoubtedly drive additional investments—not just for local connectivity but also to boost the economy of these islands.
When asked about the proposed $250 million Calypso Cove luxury resort and cruise port development planned for South Long Island, Cooper stated: “The approvals are in place, and I believe the developers are currently finalizing their management and partnership agreements—such as Calypso Cove.”
Calypso Cove is touted as a luxury resort and cruise port development in Gordon’s South Long Island. The development will include a port area, a 200-room hotel, an 18-hole golf course, a casino, a waterpark, and marina facilities for mega-yachts.
