With a substantial and welcome increase in airlift from this country to the Bahamas this winter – and the need to put more Canadian bums in seats – the islands’ ministry of tourism conducted a sales mission in three secondary, though important, markets last week, opting for Ottawa, Halifax and Calgary (ahead of more populated, and more frequently visited, Toronto, Montreal and Vancouver).
The delegation, led by Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism I. Chester Cooper and Director General Latia Duncombe, engaged partners through trade shows, destination presentations, and cultural showcases, highlighted by vibrant Junkanoo performances. The events gave attendees a firsthand look at The Bahamas’ offerings across luxury, family, wellness, and adventure travel.
Cooper emphasized the strategic purpose of the visits: “Ottawa, Halifax, and Calgary were chosen for this mission to highlight the new airlift and improved connectivity to The Bahamas,” he said. “By meeting directly with travel partners and media in these cities, we are ensuring Canadians across the country are aware of the convenient, expanded access to our islands.”
Duncombe added: “Canada has always been a priority for The Bahamas, and this mission was about strengthening partnerships and ensuring that new airlift converts into increased business for our islands. By engaging directly with travel advisors, tour operators, and media, and giving them a taste of our vibrant culture, we are positioning The Bahamas as the top choice for Canadians this winter and beyond.”
The Bahamas ministry of tourism announced a major increase in airlift from Canada for the upcoming winter season, with a total of 45 weekly flights connecting Canadian cities to The Islands of The Bahamas. This expanded schedule reflects growing demand for Bahamian vacations and strengthens year-round connectivity between the two countries, particularly as Canadians look for alternatives from the U.S.
Airlines
For the peak winter travel period – Dec. 5 to April 10, 2026 – Air Canada will launch new nonstop flights from Ottawa Macdonald-Cartier International Airport (YOW) and Halifax Stanfield International Airport (YHZ) to Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS).
The carrier will also continue operating six to seven flights per week from Toronto Pearson (YYZ) to Nassau. Seasonal service from Montréal–Pierre Elliott Trudeau International Airport (YUL) to Nassau will return for the summer period, June 20 through Aug. 29, operating every Friday aboard the Airbus A220. Air Canada Vacations’ weekly service from Pearson to Exuma International Airport (GGT) will also resume in November and continue through April.
Meanwhile, Porter Airlines has further expanded its footprint in The Bahamas with the announcement of a new nonstop service from YUL to Nassau beginning Feb. 3, 2026. This follows the carrier’s recently launched routes from Toronto, Ottawa, and Hamilton, all offering direct access to Nassau.
Grand Bahama
Sunwing Vacations has also deepened its commitment to The Bahamas, extending its Toronto–Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) route to year-round weekly service. The airline will maintain its Montréal-Grand Bahama route with weekly Saturday flights throughout the year.
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