As hot spots in the Caribbean continue to lift restriction to most travelers that can show a negative COVID-19 PCR test result, private jet bookings to various paradise islands have increased during the past weeks, especially for those South Florida-based private aviation companies, strategically located just an hour away from the Caribbean.
Comprised of 28 nations, the region’s destination with the highest private aviation demand from South Florida is The Bahamas. The country accounts for most of private flights departing from South Florida towards the Caribbean. In fact, the most requested route for any type of private aircraft within both regions is Miami – Nassau, with more than 5,300 flights departing during the last year from Opa-Locka Executive Airport to Lynden Pindling International Airport.
The Bahamas has arguably the best infrastructure in the region to pair with the needs of the private flight market, one of the main reasons that explain the high demand from South Florida, according to BitLux CEO Kyle Patel. He adds, “The proximity to The Bahamas from Miami also helps to drive demand, nevertheless, private air clients want full comfort throughout the experience; whether that comes from more private air terminal options or being able to charter any aircraft to land at destination, The Bahamas grants full flexibility for the traveler and the company arranging the flight.”
The private aviation experience is usually connected with jet planes and, although the quickest option, a turboprop aircraft is more efficient for shorter routes thanks to design and overall operational costs. Especially for trips of under two hours like the ones from Miami or Palm Beach to any island, turboprops should be considered as a top option.
Overall, the Caribbean offers the exclusivity that many travelers seek while providing the first-rate holiday all visitors deserve. Commercial aviation is indeed the most popular means of transportation for millions each year, but the proximity of the Caribbean to South Florida allows private aviation to thrive within both regions. The following are the top airports from a private aviation perspective when accounting for its infrastructure and vicinity to destination.
Top 5 private jet airports in the region
1) Lynden Pindling International Airport, Nassau, The Bahamas (NAS): formerly known as Nassau International Airport, is the busiest business airport in the region with over 4,000 flights annually, largely thanks to the proximity to South Florida.
2) V. C. Bird International, Antigua and Barbuda (ANU): is the only airport on the island of Antigua and has a solar power plant that provides almost enough energy to power the entire operation.
This destination, with exclusive retreats and luxury resorts, offers an ideal location immensely popular with private jet travelers.
3) Luis Munoz Marin International Airport, San Juan, Puerto Rico (SJU): is one of the busiest terminals in the Caribbean for airline flights and private jet charter operations. It is a popular gateway between the Caribbean and US, while also served by various big-name airlines around the globe.
4) Princess Juliana International Airport, St. Maarten (SXM): is famous for offering one of the world’s most stunning landings, with aircraft coming in low over the beach. The airport serves an important hub in the Caribbean, connecting commercial flights and those in larger private aircraft, with smaller planes headed towards more remote islands.
5) Providenciales International Airport in Turks & Caicos (PLS): accommodates private jet flights of all sizes, with travelers attracted to the world-renowned beaches and luxury resorts, plus the attractive conditions for offshore finance.
You can check a timeline of the Caribbean islands reopening for tourism this summer here.
BitLux provides various services across the air charter industry, but Executive Travel is one that is closest to heart. Whether you are flying for business or leisure, BitLux provides a top tier private jet service that actively exceeds expectations.