NASSAU, BAHAMAS – The Airport Authority has taken “immediate steps” to resolve a mechanical issue with an aging fire truck, which resulted in U.S.-based carrier Silver Airways’ decision to cancel flights to Bimini through August 2, according to the Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation.
The Ministry also noted that a new fire truck was acquired for South Bimini and is en route, expected to arrive within the next week.
Silver Airways informed its customers in a notice that all flights to and from South Bimini Airport (BIM) are expected to be canceled through August 2, 2024. “Unfortunately, this disruption is due to the airport’s inability to repair their firefighting and rescue vehicle, which has been unserviceable since July 24, 2024. Despite repeated requests for updates and solutions, the airport has not been able to resolve this critical safety issue, leading to the necessity of canceling flights to ensure passenger safety.”
It continued: “We understand the inconvenience this may cause and sincerely apologize for the disruption to your travel plans. Our team is working diligently to assist affected passengers with rebooking and other necessary arrangements.”
The Ministry of Tourism, Investments, and Aviation said in a statement that it was aware of a recent travel advisory by Silver Airways informing passengers of flight cancellations into South Bimini through August 2, 2024.
“This cancellation was attributed to an aged fire truck that experienced a mechanical issue, in spite of proactive preventative maintenance. Upon notification, the Airport Authority immediately began an urgent search for the replacement mechanical part, which has since been secured.”
The Ministry noted that mechanics from the Airport Authority are expected to arrive in Bimini today, and repairs are expected to be completed by Thursday, August 1, 2024.
“This was communicated to Silver Airways. In addition to the urgent immediate repairs, a new fire truck was acquired for South Bimini and is en route with an expected arrival within the next week, well ahead of the anticipated groundbreaking for the new multi-million-dollar South Bimini Airport. Bimini remains a very important hub for domestic and international traffic. We value our relationship with airline stakeholders, including passengers, and apologize for any inconvenience and disruption to their travel plans.”
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