10 BEST Airlines to the Bahamas in 2025

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Dreaming of the Bahamas? With over 700 islands offering everything from turquoise waters and hidden beaches to vibrant island culture, it’s a paradise waiting to be explored. I’ve been lucky enough to visit the Bahamas several times and have never paid more than $300 roundtrip, so I know how to make this trip both magical and budget-friendly.

For this guide, I analyzed flights from 175 airports across the US to bring you the 10 best airlines to the Bahamas in 2025. These airlines stand out for their affordable fares, convenient routes, and in-flight comfort. Whether you’re planning to unwind on a secluded beach, snorkel through coral reefs, or soak up the energy in Nassau, here’s who to fly with to make your Bahamas trip as smooth and affordable as possible.

Quick tip to find cheap flights to The Bahamas

For the past 4+ years, I’ve used Scott’s Cheap Flights (now called Going) to get amazing flight deals. All you have to do is enter your home airport and where you want to go, and from there, they’ll send you mistake fares and other ridiculously cheap flight deals. And the coolest part? It’s 100% FREE! In 2024, I’ve saved thousands of dollars from their email alerts. This includes most recently, a $284 roundtrip fare from Boston to The Bahamas.

There’s a free and a premium version – the free one has pretty much everything you’ll need. Though if you’re like me and travel a lot every year, it’s worth upgrading to the paid version for $49 per year. In my experience, you’ll get your money back after finding just one discounted flight! As such, I recommend signing up for the free trial (you can cancel at any time) to try it for yourself. And if you like it, be sure to use my coupon code JON20 to save 20%!

Now without further ado, here are the best The Bahamas flights in 2025.

1. 🇧🇸 Bahamas Air

• 🏠 Hub: Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, GoGold Premium
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Frequent Flyer – earn points for every dollar spent
• ☕ Perks: Most extensive inter-island network, authentic Bahamian hospitality, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the “Island Hopper” pass for unlimited travel between Bahamian islands within a 14-day period. This is perfect for exploring beyond Nassau without breaking the bank.

Bahamas Air isn’t just another airline, but your first taste of those laid-back island vibes. The national flag carrier has been connecting the Bahamas with the world since 1973, with the most flights to Nassau (NAS) from US cities like Miami, Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and seasonal service from New York. You’ll fly on their well-maintained fleet of ATR 72-600 turboprops for short hops and Boeing 737-700s for longer routes.

Flying up front? The newer GoGold Premium cabin feels like a worthy splurge with roomier seats, priority everything, and free drinks flowing. Even in regular Economy, you’ll appreciate the generous 50-pound free checked bag allowance (perfect for those extra beach outfits) and the complimentary rum punch that sets the vacation mood right from takeoff.

What really sets Bahamas Air apart is the warm island welcome that makes you feel like family. Flight attendants greet everyone with genuine smiles and that famous Bahamian hospitality. The cabins come alive with Junkanoo beats, local snacks, and crew members who’ll happily share their favorite hidden beaches and conch shacks at your destination.

No other airline can match Bahamas Air for island-hopping adventures. With flights to 13 destinations across the archipelago including gems like Exuma (with those swimming pigs), Eleuthera, and Bimini, they make it easy to explore beyond Nassau. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to Orlando
• You may also like: Best Airlines to Fly to Miami
• For more reading: Mind-Blowing Places in the Caribbean
• Keep reading: Things to Do in the Bahamas

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2. 🇺🇸 Southwest Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Fort Lauderdale (FLL), Orlando (MCO), Baltimore (BWI)
• 💺 Cabin Options: All-Economy seating with open boarding
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Rapid Rewards – points-based with no blackout dates
• ☕ Perks: Two free checked bags, no change fees, friendly service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Check in exactly 24 hours before departure to secure A-group boarding and your pick of seats.

Southwest Airlines brings their famous no-frills fun to the Bahamas with daily flights to Nassau (NAS) from their Florida gateways. America’s largest domestic carrier has expanded their Caribbean footprint significantly, offering easy connections from across the US through Fort Lauderdale, Orlando, and seasonally via Baltimore. Their all-Boeing 737 fleet ensures a consistent experience with newer aircraft featuring spacious cabins and that distinctive blue and red livery.

What you see is what you get with Southwest. There’s only one class of service, no assigned seats, and absolutely no hidden fees. That straightforward approach means you’ll save big with two free checked bags (saving a family of four about $280 round-trip compared to most airlines), zero change fees if your plans shift, and no surprise charges for basic comforts. The open seating policy means early check-in is crucial for nabbing those coveted window or aisle spots.

Southwest stands out for creating a party-like atmosphere, especially on Bahamas routes. Flight attendants crack jokes during safety briefings, celebrate passenger birthdays with impromptu singing, and keep the mood light with games and trivia. The best part? Complimentary drinks include the first round of beer, wine, or spirits. Plus, their famous blue corn chips make a surprisingly satisfying snack.

Travel frequently? The Rapid Rewards program ranks among the simplest and most valuable airline loyalty schemes around. Points never expire, award availability matches regular flight availability, and the popular Companion Pass lets frequent flyers bring someone along for just taxes on every flight. 

• Read next: Cheapest Places to Fly from Baltimore
• You may also like: Affordable Places to Fly from Denver
• For more reading: Cheapest Places to Fly from Dallas

3. 🇺🇸 JetBlue

• 🏠 Hub: Fort Lauderdale (FLL), New York (JFK)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy (Core), Even More Space, Mint (select routes)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: TrueBlue – points-based with family pooling
• ☕ Perks: Most legroom in coach, free high-speed Wi-Fi, live TV
• 🧠 Pro Tip:  Choose the “Blue Plus” fare. It usually costs just $25 to $30 more than basic economy, but includes a checked bag and earns more points. This often works out cheaper than paying for baggage separately.

JetBlue feels like the airline equivalent of your favorite boutique hotel—stylish, thoughtful, and refreshingly different. This fan-favorite carrier flies daily to Nassau (NAS) from their busy hub in Fort Lauderdale (just 35 minutes in the air) and New York JFK, making Bahamas weekends entirely possible for chilly Northeasterners. Look for their sleek Airbus A320s decked out with leather seats and signature blue mood lighting.

Here, the legroom is JetBlue’s secret weapon. We’re talking generous 34 inches between seats even in regular Economy (they call it “Core”), while most competitors squeeze you into 30-31 inches. Splurging on “Even More Space” gets you a roomy 38 inches for about $60 on the FLL-NAS hop or $90 from New York. Every seat includes a personal TV with 100+ DIRECTV channels, movies, and actually usable free Wi-Fi.

The onboard vibe matches your Bahamas mood perfectly. Flight attendants sport casual uniforms and relaxed personalities, serving unlimited name-brand snacks (those blue chips!) and taking genuine pleasure in starting your vacation right. The free in-seat TV comes in handy during hurricane season for weather updates, and most aircraft feature both standard power outlets and USB ports at every seat.

Families love JetBlue’s TrueBlue program for one standout feature: points pooling that lets up to seven family members combine their earnings. Points never expire and redemption values stay consistent year-round, unlike the wild swings you’ll see with other airlines. 

• Read next: Best Airlines to Fly to New York

4. 🇺🇸 Delta Air Lines

• 🏠 Hub: Atlanta (ATL), New York (JFK)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Comfort+, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: SkyMiles – points never expire
• ☕ Perks: Industry-leading reliability, free messaging, premium snacks
• 🧠 Pro Tip: If you’re travelling for a special occasion while in First Class, request the free celebration cake when booking.

Delta Air Lines has perfected the art of reliable Caribbean travel. This Atlanta-based giant offers the most flights to Nassau (NAS) of any US carrier, with multiple daily departures from their massive Atlanta hub and New York JFK, plus seasonal service from Detroit and Minneapolis. Delta’s diverse fleet includes spacious Airbus A320s on popular routes and the sleek new Airbus A220 with its extra-wide seats and oversized windows on select flights.

What sets Delta apart isn’t flashy gimmicks but consistent service. In the Main Cabin, Delta provides seatback entertainment screens loaded with free movies, shows, and music. You also get complimentary snacks and drinks, and if you’re using their mobile app, you’ll benefit from real-time updates that actually make travel less stressful. Comfort+ is worth the small splurge, especially on leisure routes. You get extra legroom, early boarding, and your own overhead bin space, which comes in handy on full flights.

Delta’s cabin crews are known for being attentive and professional without being overly formal. Whether you’re flying solo or with family, the experience feels efficient and well-managed from check-in to touchdown. Their First Class cabin, available on most Nassau flights, includes larger seats, premium snacks, and drinks served in actual glassware.

SkyMiles members enjoy consistent redemption options, and domestic upgrades are fairly accessible for mid-tier Medallion members. Delta’s “TakeOff 15” feature also gives SkyMiles credit card holders a 15% discount on award tickets when booked online. 

• Read next: Affordable Places to Fly from Atlanta

5. 🇺🇸 United Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Newark (EWR), Houston (IAH), Chicago (ORD)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Economy, Economy Plus, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: MileagePlus – miles never expire for active accounts
• ☕ Perks: Excellent app experience, ConnectionSaver technology, Stroopwafel cookies
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Use the “FareLock” feature if you find a great fare but need more time. For around $10, you can hold your price for up to a week while finalizing plans.

United connects beach-bound travelers to the Bahamas with daily flights to Nassau (NAS) from Newark and seasonal options from Houston and Chicago. Whether you’re heading out of the Northeast or connecting from the Midwest, United offers reliable service with a mix of Boeing 737s and Embraer E175s on these routes.

If you’re looking for more space, Economy Plus gives you up to six extra inches of legroom and is often located in prime rows. It’s a worthwhile upgrade for $69 to $99 on Bahamas routes. Economy passengers also get a nice boost with Illy coffee and those fan-favorite Stroopwafels, a sweet treat that’s become a bit of a United signature. Longer flights also feature a solid buy-on-board menu, with fresh snack boxes and protein plates that beat the usual fare.

What really sets United apart is their tech. They have a mobile app, with features like live gate updates, real-time bag tracking, and Agent on Demand if you need help without waiting in line. Their ConnectionSaver tool can even hold your next flight a few extra minutes if your first one is delayed, helping you avoid missed connections.

MileagePlus offers strong value, especially for families or frequent visitors. Premier members unlock free Economy Plus seats, better upgrade odds, and priority check-in. Credit cards also offer practical perks like free checked bags and expanded award seat availability, which makes booking during holidays or school breaks far less stressful.

• Read next: Amazing Experiences in the Caribbean

6. 🇺🇸 American Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Miami (MIA), Charlotte (CLT), Philadelphia (PHL)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Basic Economy, Main Cabin, Main Cabin Extra, First Class
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: AAdvantage – oneworld alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Widest US-Bahamas network, premium snacks, Admirals Club access
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Keep an eye on American’s quarterly Web Specials. Flights to the Bahamas can sometimes drop to just 7,500 miles each way.

American Airlines owns the US-Bahamas market, plain and simple. While other airlines dabble with Nassau service, American goes all-in with flights not just to the capital, but to those dreamy outer islands that fill your Instagram feed. From their Miami hub just 55 minutes away, they’ll whisk you to Nassau, Exuma (yes, those swimming pigs), Eleuthera (pink sand beaches), and Freeport. During winter, they add flights from Charlotte, Philadelphia, and even Dallas bringing Caribbean sunshine within reach for millions of Americans.

Onboard, you’ll find refreshed cabins with modern lighting, leather seating, and power outlets that actually work. Main Cabin Extra provides 3 to 4 more inches of legroom plus complimentary drinks for around $60 more, while First Class is worth the splurge if you want to start your vacation with a hot breakfast and a mimosa at cruising altitude.

In Miami, American runs what feels like a Caribbean operations center. The gates for island-bound flights often have reggae playing, and the staff know how to navigate the nuances of regional travel. When summer storms hit, and they usually do, American’s experience in the region becomes obvious. They’re often able to reroute or rebook passengers faster than smaller competitors.

The AAdvantage loyalty program is packed with value for Bahamas travelers. Web Specials frequently offer flights at reduced mileage rates, and holding one of their credit cards adds practical perks like free checked bags and priority boarding. That early boarding makes a real difference on full flights, giving you peace of mind that your carry-on won’t get gate-checked last minute.

7. 🇬🇧 British Airways

• 🏠 Hub: London Heathrow (LHR), London Gatwick (LGW)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Premium Economy, Business (Club World), First
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Executive Club – Avios points, oneworld alliance
• ☕ Perks: Afternoon tea service, extensive European connections, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book BA’s “Hand Baggage Only” fare if traveling light. It’s often $60-70 cheaper roundtrip, and the savings can fund a spectacular seafood dinner in Nassau.

British Airways makes it easy for Europeans to trade grey skies for turquoise waters with nonstop flights from London to Nassau. While many Americans visit for quick getaways, BA’s transatlantic service turns the Bahamas into a long-haul holiday destination during peak season, operating three times a week on spacious Boeing 777s.

You’ll feel the British touch immediately on board. We’re talking about proper tea service (with actual teapots!), gin and tonics served from carts rather than cans, and cabin crew who somehow maintain perfect composure even on rowdy holiday flights. Economy passengers enjoy a surprising 31-inch seat pitch, complimentary bar service throughout, and multi-course meals with dessert trolley service. Forgot your headphones? BA provides them for free, unlike most carriers.

If you’re looking to upgrade without splurging too much, Premium Economy (branded as World Traveller Plus) is where the value shines. For about $300 more, you’ll get wider seats, noticeably more legroom, early boarding, upgraded dining with real cutlery and glassware, and amenity kits that make the overnight return from Nassau feel less exhausting.

British Airways’ Avios program is particularly rewarding for Bahamas routes. Off-peak redemptions often cost significantly fewer points, and their “Part Pay with Avios” option lets you lower your cash fare by $60-120. Watch for seasonal fare sales too, with round-trip flights from London to Nassau occasionally dropping below $600. Just be sure to pack a UK-to-US power adapter so you can charge your phone for all those beach photos.

• Read next: Budget-Friendly Destinations from the UK

8. 🇧🇸 Pineapple Air

• 🏠 Hub: Nassau (NAS)
• 💺 Cabin Options: All-Economy service
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Island Hopper Rewards – simple punch-card system
• ☕ Perks: Access to remote islands, flexible baggage rules, personalized service
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Try calling Pineapple Air directly. They often have unpublished deals and can hold seats without requiring immediate payment.

Pineapple Air delivers authentic Bahamian island-hopping at its finest. This locally-owned carrier might not have the glamour of international airlines, but it offers something far more valuable: direct access to stunning Bahamian Out Islands that larger carriers simply don’t serve. Operating a fleet of nimble Beechcraft 1900 and Cessna Grand Caravan aircraft, Pineapple connects Nassau with gems like Fresh Creek in Andros, Arthur’s Town in Cat Island, and Congo Town in South Andros.

Flying with Pineapple feels personal. Check-in is laid-back, staff are friendly, and on some flights, the pilot may even give you a quick wave before takeoff. With seating for just 19 passengers, it’s a cozy ride that trades inflight entertainment for postcard-worthy views of glowing sandbars, coral reefs, and cobalt-blue water from low cruising altitudes.

The experience here is simple but flexible. You won’t get seatback screens or in-flight snacks, but you will get convenience and charm. Need to bring that extra cooler of fresh catch or case of Kalik beer? Pineapple usually makes it work without the punitive fees larger airlines charge.

Fares usually range from $75 to $150 one-way, depending on the route. Pineapple’s Island Hopper Rewards program is delightfully old-school: buy 10 flights and your next one is free. Planning to visit several islands? They also offer open-jaw tickets that make it easy to start on one island and end on another without looping back to Nassau. 

9. 🇵🇦 Copa Airlines

• 🏠 Hub: Panama City Tocumen International (PTY)
• 💺 Cabin Options: Economy, Business (“Dreams”)
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: ConnectMiles – Star Alliance member
• ☕ Perks: Extensive Latin American connections, free meals and beverages, generous baggage allowance
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Take advantage of Copa’s free stopover program to explore Panama City for up to seven days before continuing on to the Bahamas. It’s an easy way to enjoy two destinations on a single ticket.

Copa Airlines transforms the Bahamas from a North American playground into a Latin American hotspot. Panama’s flag carrier offers regular service between Panama City and Nassau, unlocking the islands for travelers from across Central and South America. Operating modern Boeing 737-800 aircraft on the route, Copa delivers reliable service with a distinctive Latin flair that sets it apart from US carriers.

In Economy, passengers enjoy complimentary hot meals, wine and beer, pillows and blankets, and personal entertainment screens with bilingual content. The 31-inch seat pitch and adjustable headrests offer solid comfort for the three-hour journey, especially on Copa’s newer planes with slimline seats that create more room without sacrificing support.

For a step up, Copa’s “Dreams” Business Class delivers great value. The seats are arranged two across on each side of the aisle (meaning no middle seats), and come with extra space, large reclining seats, and upgraded meals served with real glassware. It often costs much less than Business Class on U.S. airlines.

Travel frequently? The ConnectMiles program offers decent redemption rates and integrates smoothly with the wider Star Alliance network. Travelers who add a Panama City stopover can enjoy world-class dining, colonial architecture, and the Panama Canal before heading to the islands. 

• Read next: Mind-Blowing Places in South America
• You may also like: Most Beautiful Places in Panama
• For more reading: Best Airlines to Fly to Mexico City
• Keep reading: Prettiest Places in Latin America

10. 🇧🇸 Western Air

• 🏠 Hub: Nassau (NAS), Freeport (FPO), San Andros (SAQ)
• 💺 Cabin Options: All-Economy service
• 🎯 Loyalty Program: Frequent Flyer Discount Card – 10% off after 10 segments
• ☕ Perks: Most frequent domestic Bahamas schedules, locally-owned service, modern fleet
• 🧠 Pro Tip: Book the early morning “commuter flights” used by business travelers for more reliable departures. These flights are less likely to be delayed and usually leave on time regardless of weather.

Western Air is the largest privately-owned airline in the Bahamas and plays a crucial role in keeping the islands connected. What started as a family-run operation has grown into a major regional carrier with the most frequent domestic schedule in the country. Their modern fleet includes Embraer ERJ-145 jets and Saab 340 turboprops, with routes linking Nassau to Freeport, San Andros, Congo Town, and George Town several times a day.

The airline is known for its dependable service and well-maintained aircraft, offering a level of professionalism that stands out in the laid-back world of Bahamian aviation. Flights with ERJ-145 jets are especially comfortable, thanks to the 1-2 seating layout that allows solo travelers to snag a window and aisle seat in one. Western Air’s high-frequency routes are a major advantage for travelers trying to avoid long ferry rides or limited flight options. Their San Andros-Nassau route, for example, can run up to six times daily in peak season.

Fares usually range from $85 to $150 one-way depending on the destination and time of booking. For those traveling often between islands, the Frequent Flyer Discount Card is refreshingly simple: complete 10 flight segments within a year and receive 10 percent off future bookings. No apps, no points, just straightforward savings.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Best Airlines to Fly to The Bahamas

If you’re still curious about what airlines fly to the Bahamas, here are some common questions that might help you decide.

What airline is the best to fly to the Bahamas?

Choosing the best airline to fly to the Bahamas largely depends on your preferences, starting location, and budget. However, several airlines consistently receive high marks for their service, routes, and overall experience:

1. Bahamas Air: The national carrier offers an authentic Bahamian experience.
2. Southwest: Known for its budget-friendly fares and extensive U.S. routes.
3. JetBlue: Offers a modern fleet with great in-flight amenities.
4. Delta: Renowned for its premium services and vast network.
5. British Airways: A top choice for UK travelers seeking direct flights.
6. Copa Airlines: Ideal for travelers from Latin America, offering convenient connections via Panama.
7. Western Air: Provides a local Bahamian experience with strong community ties

Which airlines fly direct to the Bahamas from the US?

For travelers from the U.S. seeking a direct route to the sun-soaked beaches of the Bahamas, several airlines offer non-stop flights.

1. Southwest: Operates direct flights from various U.S. cities.
2. JetBlue: Known for its frequent routes from the East Coast.
3. Delta: Connects major U.S. hubs directly to Nassau.
4. United: Offers flights from its key hubs like Newark and Houston.
5. American Airlines: Provides extensive connections from cities like Miami and Dallas.

Is there a direct flight from the UK to the Bahamas?

Yes, British Airways operates direct flights from London’s Heathrow Airport to Nassau. This service allows UK travelers to reach The Bahamas without the need for layovers, ensuring a swift and comfortable journey.

How far in advance should I book a flight to the Bahamas?

To secure the best deals and availability, it’s recommended to book your flight to The Bahamas at least 3-4 months in advance, especially if you’re planning to visit during peak tourist seasons.

What is the cheapest month to fly to the Bahamas?

The off-peak season, which includes the months of September and October, typically offers the most affordable flight options to The Bahamas. However, it’s essential to note that this period also coincides with the hurricane season.

What methods can I use to find cheap flights to the Bahamas?

Finding an affordable flight to the Bahamas can be a rewarding challenge, especially when you know where to look and how to strategize. Here are some comprehensive methods to help you secure the best deals:

• Flight Comparison Websites: Platforms like Skyscanner, Kayak, and Momondo aggregate flight deals from various sources. This allows you to compare prices and choose the most cost-effective option.
• Set Fare Alerts: Tools like Google Flights allow you to set up notifications. This alerts you when prices drop for your specified route.
• Subscribe to Deal Newsletters: Services like Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) curate and send out alerts for deeply discounted flights. It includes occasional deals to The Bahamas.
• Travel During Off-Peak Times: Flying during weekdays, outside of holidays, or during the shoulder season can often yield better prices.
• Leverage Airline Miles or Points: If you’re part of an airline loyalty program, keep an eye out for redemption promotions where your miles or points can stretch further.
• Book Well in Advance: While last-minute deals can sometimes be found, booking your flight 3-4 months in advance often secures better rates.
• Consider Nearby Airports: Instead of flying directly into Nassau, check prices for other Bahamian airports. A short domestic flight or ferry might lead to overall savings.
• Stay Updated with Airline Newsletters: Airlines occasionally offer exclusive promotions to their subscribers. Joining newsletters ensures you’re in the loop.
• Travel Light: Opt for basic economy fares or deals that don’t include checked luggage if you can pack light.

By employing a combination of these strategies and staying persistent in your search, you can significantly increase your chances of finding a budget-friendly flight to The Bahamas.

Best Airlines to Fly to Bahamas: Recap

Navigating the myriad of airline options to the Bahamas might initially seem overwhelming. Yet, with the right strategies and insights, securing that dream flight becomes an achievable reality. From the vast networks of international giants like Delta and British Airways to the local charm of carriers like Pineapple Air and Western Air, there’s a flight experience tailored to every traveler’s preference and budget.

Remember, the journey is as much a part of the adventure as the destination. Each airline offers its unique blend of service, amenities, and routes, enhancing the anticipation of your Bahamian getaway. To ensure you’re getting the best value, leverage flight comparison websites, set fare alerts, and join airline newsletters. Services like Going (formerly Scott’s Cheap Flights) can be invaluable in alerting you to unexpected deals.

In the end, the perfect flight to the Bahamas isn’t just about the price. It’s about the experience, the convenience, and the memories you’ll create even before you touch down on those pristine beaches. With a bit of research and flexibility, the skies open up with possibilities. This leads you straight to the heart of paradise.