Press Release: Aviation Leaders Land In Nassau & Paradise Island

Marking its 18th edition, the event will be attended by vice presidents and heads of network planning from 90 of the region’s leading airlines, who will engage in over 3,000 meetings with airport and destination representatives to identify new route opportunities. Carriers in attendance include Air Canada, Avianca, Aeroméxico, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, jetBlue, LATAM Airlines and United Airlines. View the attendee list.

Routes Americas 2025 will also welcome more than 25 association and airline leaders, government ministers and expert suppliers to participate in the event’s Conference Programme. The line-up of airline leaders includes:

• Bahamas Air’s CEO Tracy Cooper, will outline the airline’s strategic vision for the future.
• Sun Country Airlines’ CEO Jude Bricker, will discuss the organisation’s innovative approach to route development and plans for expanding its network
• British Airways’ Chief Planning and Strategy Officer Neil Chernoff, will provide updates on the carrier’s $9 billion investment programme and insights into the airline's sustainability commitment
• JetSmart’s Chief Commercial Victor Mejia, will discuss the carrier’s expansion in the Colombian domestic market and the planned arrival of the airline’s first A321XLR aircraft

This year’s event will be hosted by Nassau & Paradise Island Promotion Board in partnership with Nassau Airport Development Company, and The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. As one of the top destinations in the Caribbean, Nassau & Paradise Island has made significant strides in enhancing air connectivity to meet the growing demand from visitors. Capacity from NAS totalled 3 million departure seats during 2024, marking a year-on-year rise of 7%.

Steven Small, director of Routes, said: “With a record number of airlines in attendance and our largest ever exhibition, it is clear the pivotal role the event plays for the air service development community in defining the region’s air services. Independent analysis shows that airports in previous host destinations have seen their networks grow by around 6.9% more than comparable airports within three years. With decision-makers from over 90 of the region’s leading and fastest-growing airlines in attendance, Routes Americas 2025 is a unique opportunity for Nassau & Paradise Island to showcase its remarkable growth opportunities and strengthen its position as a key player in the market.”

Joy Jibrilu, CEO of Nassau & Paradise Island Promotion Board, added: “Hosting Routes Americas in 2025 is an incredible opportunity to welcome top travel industry professionals to Nassau & Paradise Island. With Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) being the first airport outside the U.S. to offer TSA PreCheck, as well as U.S. Customs and Immigration Preclearance and Global Entry expedited clearance, The Bahamas is consistently ranked as a leading destination in the region. We are excited to showcase our vibrant culture and breathtaking beaches to global aviation and tourism decision-makers. We believe this event will spark new partnerships, expand airlift, and enhance awareness of The Bahamas as a premier travel destination. The long-term economic impact will be significant, with increased visitor arrivals, greater investment, and the creation of lasting opportunities for Bahamians.”

Vernice Walkine, President & CEO of Nassau Airport Development Company, commented: “Routes Americas is expected to generate strong economic benefits for The Bahamas by facilitating new opportunities for airlift and strengthening existing partnerships in the market. In the long run, the increased connectivity resulting from this event could lead to higher visitor arrivals, expanded investments in tourism infrastructure, and new prospects for Bahamian businesses. For LPIA, this translates to a greater role as a key economic driver, supporting national development and contributing to economic growth throughout the country.”

Latia Duncombe, Director General, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, said: “As The Bahamas prepares to welcome Routes Americas 2025, we are focused on leveraging this platform to advance strategic airlift expansion, strengthen global partnerships, and enhance the aviation landscape of the region. With record-breaking tourism growth and ongoing investments in airport infrastructure, this event presents a pivotal opportunity to shape the next phase of connectivity and visitor access. By fostering data-driven route development, embracing emerging technologies, and prioritizing sustainable growth, we aim to create lasting economic benefits that empower Bahamians and reinforce The Bahamas’ position as a leader in travel and tourism."