Last checked: November 2026
Most international flights to the Bahamas land at Lynden Pindling International Airport in Nassau (NAS). Grand Bahama International Airport in Freeport (FPO) is the second main gateway. A nonstop flight from South Florida takes about an hour, and flights from London take roughly nine hours.
Quick answer: Choose Nassau for most trips, since it has nonstop service from dozens of cities in the United States, Canada, Europe and Latin America. Choose Freeport if Grand Bahama is your main stop. For flights between islands once you arrive, see our guide to getting around the Bahamas.
Which airports receive international flights?
| Airport | Code | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Lynden Pindling International, Nassau | NAS | Main gateway for Nassau, Paradise Island and Cable Beach |
| Grand Bahama International, Freeport | FPO | Freeport and Lucaya |
| Exuma International, Great Exuma | GGT | George Town and the Exuma Cays |
| North Eleuthera | ELH | Harbour Island and northern Eleuthera |
| Marsh Harbour | MHH | Abaco, Elbow Cay and Hope Town |
The smaller airports mostly receive flights from Florida or connect through Nassau, and some get seasonal service from Canada. Schedules change each season, so check before you book. The Nassau airport website and the Bahamasair website are good starting points.
Which airlines fly to the Bahamas?
- From the United States: American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, United, Bahamasair and Breeze Airways, which began Tampa to Nassau flights in June 2026.
- From Canada: Air Canada, WestJet and Porter Airlines, with extra winter service from several cities.
- From Europe: British Airways flies nonstop from London. Most other European travellers connect through London or a US hub.
- From Latin America: Copa Airlines flies nonstop from Panama City, and other carriers connect through hubs.
If you’re coming from Asia, Africa or the Middle East, you’ll usually connect in the United States, Canada or Europe. If you pass through the United States, you may need an ESTA or a transit visa, depending on your passport. Check this before you buy a ticket, because it’s one of the most common planning mistakes. Our Bahamas visa guide for tourists covers the Bahamian side.
How do you reach the city from the airport?
Nassau’s airport is on the western side of New Providence. Most transfers take about 20 to 40 minutes, depending on the destination and traffic. There’s a taxi rank outside the baggage claim areas, and the fares for common destinations such as Cable Beach, downtown and Paradise Island are set by the government. Ask for the fare before you get in, and check what extra passengers and bags cost.
Many resorts offer pre-arranged shuttles, and rental car desks operate at the airport. If you rent a car, remember that traffic drives on the left. In Freeport, taxi stands serve Grand Bahama International Airport. At smaller airports, your hotel usually arranges the transfer, so ask when you book.
What time zone is the Bahamas in?
The Bahamas uses Eastern Time and observes daylight saving, so it matches Miami and New York. That makes it easy to plan flights from the US East Coast.
Booking tips
- Book early for December to April and for holiday weeks.
- Compare nonstop flights to Nassau with cheaper options through Fort Lauderdale or Miami.
- Choose flexible fares in hurricane season, from June to November.
- Allow extra time for check-in, security and immigration at both ends.
- If your trip continues to another island, book it on the same ticket when you can. See the Bahamas itineraries for realistic plans.
Before You Fly: checklist
- Passport valid for at least six months after your departure date.
- Visa approval, if your nationality needs one.
- Return or onward ticket ready to show.
- First hotel or rental address saved.
- US transit paperwork checked, if you connect via the United States.
- Travel insurance in place, especially in storm season.
- Phone, charger and power adapter packed. The Bahamas uses US-style plugs.
3 Quick Answers
Which airport should I fly into?
Choose Nassau (NAS) for most trips, or Freeport (FPO) if Grand Bahama is your main stop. Choose Exuma (GGT), North Eleuthera (ELH) or Marsh Harbour (MHH) only if you’re staying near them.
How long is the flight from Miami to Nassau?
About one hour for a nonstop flight. Allow extra time for check-in, security and immigration.
Do I need a visa to fly to the Bahamas?
Some nationalities do, and some don’t. Check the official entry requirements for your passport before you book.
Flight Deals
Compare current offers below. Always confirm the final price, taxes and cancellation terms on the partner site.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is it cheaper to fly into Nassau or Freeport?
It varies by season and airline. Compare both for your dates, and include the cost and time of getting to your final island.
Do I need a return ticket?
Yes. The Bahamas Department of Immigration says visitors must have a return or onward ticket and a valid travel document. Airlines often check this at the gate.
Can I take a ferry from Florida?
Ferry services have started and stopped over the years, so don’t assume one runs. Check current operators and schedules before you plan around one.
What if a storm cancels my flight?
Contact the airline first, then your insurer. Keep receipts for extra costs, and check the cancellation and rebooking terms before you buy.
