NASSAU, BAHAMAS June 14, 2021— In an effort to mitigate the impact of growing passenger traffic and COVID-19 protocols, key stakeholders at Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) have finalized plans to ensure that passengers can be safely and efficiently processed through the airport during what promises to be a busy upcoming summer travel season.
Nassau has been selected as a homeport for two cruise lines beginning this month. Following the first 7-day cruise, approximately 900 passengers will be departing Nassau for the United States on Saturday, June 19th, 2021. The airport anticipates heavy arrivals and departures of cruise passengers every Saturday and Sunday thereafter, and for this number to grow to 3,500 passengers each weekend by July.
In addition, summer projections for land-based passenger arrivals and departures at LPIA indicate steady recovery from the pandemic, with a potential additional 4500 passengers between Saturday and Sunday.
“We are fortunate that our largest source market, the United States, has been very successful with their vaccine distribution and there is significant pent-up demand for travel given the challenges and restrictions of the past year living with COVID-19. People are ready to travel and month by month we are seeing improvements in our passenger numbers.” said Vernice Walkine, President and Chief Executive Officer, Nassau Airport Development Company Ltd.
“During this busy summer travel period we wish to assure the travelling public that their safety is our paramount concern. Our overall objective is to make certain that a high level of efficiency prevails in the terminals coupled with excellent customer service resulting in a positive experience for our passengers,” she continued.
The airport continuously works with its key stakeholders to maximize the efficiency of operations and mitigate any potential challenges within its facilities. As a result, in 2020 LPIA was one of the first airports in Latin America and the Caribbean to achieve a COVID-19 Health Accreditation from the Airports Council International.
As the airport supports Nassau as a home cruise port and manages its recovering land passenger base, LPIA is offering the following tips to local passengers planning to travel this summer.
1. Given the volume of passengers that will be commencing cruises in Nassau, if possible, avoid travel on Saturday and Sunday and choose a slower day to begin and end your vacation or business trip. Also, consider travel during off peak times and look for flights either before 9:00am or after 2:00pm, which is a peak travel period at the airport.
2. When travelling to the US, particularly on peak days and times, ensure that you are at the airport 3 to 3.5 hours ahead of your scheduled flight departure time. Given the impact of COVID-19, passenger processing is slower and more complex.
3. Whether you are vaccinated or not, a negative COVID-19 test result (PCR or Rapid Antigen) and completed Attestation form (found on LPIA’s website at www.nassaulpia.com) is needed for all persons travelling to the United States. This will be required for check in with your airline and tests should be completed prior to arrival at the airport.
4. For travel within The Bahamas, a negative COVID-19 (PCR Test) is required if you are not fully vaccinated (two shots with the last shot given more than two weeks prior to travel) along with a Bahamas Health VISA for domestic check in.
5. Checked luggage should be taken to your airline counter. Very Important: Please remove old luggage tags prior to placing a new luggage tag for your destination. If you are travelling to the United States, once you present your checked bag(s) to your airline, an image of your bag(s) will appear on the airline counter video screen to confirm each bag is checked in for your flight.
6. Checked luggage should be taken to your airline counter. Very Important: Please remove old luggage tags prior to placing a new luggage tag for your destination. Your airline should tag your checked luggage to your boarding pass. For persons travelling to the United States, please ensure you see an image of your checked bag(s) on the tablet screen at the airline counter.
7. After check-in, passengers travelling to the US may be directed by an airport ambassador to wait briefly in the airport’s Summer Garden Lounge prior to proceeding to airport security screening and United States Customs for processing. This wait is to allow passengers to be processed in order of scheduled departure time. The lounge is a beautiful and comfortable outdoor space with amenities like food and beverage, WIFI, entertainment and limited shopping.
8. Passengers should have their passport and boarding pass available to enter the security screening process. Passengers will be required to remove jackets, belts, shoes and empty pockets, and remove laptops from carry-on luggage for the security screening process.
9. As LPIA is a US Pre-Clearance facility, each passenger will undergo inspection by a United States Customs & Border Protection Officer prior to leaving Nassau. Bahamians need a valid passport and police record or US VISA for travel. Family members living in the same household can be inspected together.
10. Once these formalities are done, you may proceed to your airline gate or enjoy the shopping and dining amenities available in the U.S. Departures Lounge. All gates are within a three-minute walk from anywhere in the US or Domestic/International Departure Lounge.
11. Upon your return or arrival to Nassau, remember you will need a Bahamas Health Visa and a negative COVID-19 PCR test for entry to the country if you are not fully vaccinated. If you are fully vaccinated, then you will need the Bahamas Health Visa and proof of your vaccination. These are to be presented to Bahamas Immigration along with your passport for admittance to The Bahamas.
12. This summer, returning residents will now have two additional options to complete their Bahamas Customs declaration forms and pay duties or claim exemptions. This is in addition to the current process of presenting a completed C17 Customs Declaration form to a Bahamas Customs officer for assessment.
- Returning residents should consider downloading and using the new Bahamas Customs Exempt App to fill out their declaration electronically, upload their receipts and pay customs duties and/or claim exemption online prior to arrival in Nassau. Once luggage is collected, returning residents then only need to proceed to a
customs officer for baggage inspection. - Bahamas Customs also has kiosks available at the airport that perform the same services as the App and allows for credit/debit card payments online or cash payments at the airport.
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FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Nassau, Bahamas (Oct 10)…..The Tourism Development Corporation (TDC) is pleased to announce that the World Travel and Tourism Council (WTTC) has recognized The Islands Of The Bahamas as a Safe Travels destination for having met its enhanced health and safety standards in line with its global Safe Travels Protocols.
Having developed these protocols specifically to rebuild the traveler’s confidence and to ensure that there is a coordinated public and private sector approach to the recovery efforts of the global tourism industry, the WTTC awarded The Bahamas the WTTC Safe Travels Stamp. It is the World’s first-ever global safety and hygiene stamp for Travel and Tourism, especially designed amidst the Covid-19 pandemic and for other similar outbreaks. The Bahamas, through the TDC, will accrue both benefits and responsibilities as a user of the Safe Travels stamp to maximize its positive impacts.
“It is proving a great success, demonstrating its importance not only to destinations and businesses, but also to travellers and the hundreds of millions of people around the world who work in, and depend on, the Travel & Tourism sector,” stated Gloria Guevera, President and CEO of the WTTC. “More than 40 countries and 10 sub-regions are already utilizing the stamp as part of their re-launching strategies of their Tourism industries.”
The Safe Travels Protocols take WHO and CDC guidelines into account and are based on self-assessment of the protocols that are implemented in compliance with the Safe Travels Protocols for every aspect of the Industry, with guidelines established for airlines in conjunction with ICAO ‘s guidelines during Covid 19.
“The return of the visitor’s confidence to travel to revitalize the economy of The Bahamas is crucial to the well-being of our people and country and as such, the Safe Travels Stamp will allow those travelling to regain the necessary confidence and comfort as global standards are being met on each of the islands, as restrictions are gradually lifted,” said Janet Johnson, CEO of the TDC.
The TDC will be communicating with all stakeholders in The Bahamas as to the benefits and responsibilities for every tourism-related business which is given the stamp of approval for its implementation of the Safe Travels protocols and ongoing compliance. Guidelines and protocols for what WTTC calls the “New Normal” have been developed for every sector of Hospitality and Tourism from Airports, Cruiseports, Attractions, Restaurants, Tours, Convention Centres, Car Rental Companies etc..
“When the visitor and also resident sees the Safe Travels stamp at a tourism-related business anywhere in The Bahamas, they will have the comfort level to feel safe and enjoy the destination and the particular experience, knowing that global standards have been met and appropriate protocols implemented, “said Minister of Tourism, Dionisio D’Aguilar. “The TDC has been authorized to ensure that every establishment in The Bahamas wishing to display the WTTC’s Safe Travels Stamp has met the programme’s guidelines and standards prior to receiving the stamp.”
“It is really gratifying to note that our implemented protocols and measures as part of the Tourism Readiness and Recovery plan, and the Sustainable Tourism Seal of Approval programme developed in conjunction with the IDB, have met the enhanced standards of the WTTC and enabled our designation as a Safe Travels Destination, “ he continued.
The WTTC’s Safe Travels Stamp will develop the instant recognition required to instill immediate confidence that safety measures have been taken for both resident and visitor alike.
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Contact:
Janet Johnson
427-3757
janet@tdcbahamas.com
The Government of The Bahamas has taken a phased approach to restarting air travel to, from and within The Bahamas. Policies and Procedures for all travellers visiting The Bahamas beginning July 1 are as follows. Plans continue to evolve in response to COVID-19 trends, and so additional guidance will be communicated as details are available.
Starting Wednesday, July 1, 2020:
- All incoming visitors must present a COVID-19 RT-PCR Negative (Swab) Test upon arrival. Those arriving in The Bahamas between July 1 and July 7 must present results no more than ten (10) days old. Those arriving in The Bahamas after July 7 must present results no more than seven (7) days old. Select individuals will not be required to provide a test:
- Children under the age of two (2)
- Children between the ages of 3-10, provided their state or county of residence does not administer tests for children under that age. Parent or guardian must provide proof of testing restriction upon arrival.
- Private pilots who do not deplane
- Bahamian citizens, residents and homeowners who are returning to The Bahamas from English speaking CARICOM countries
- Bahamian citizens and legal residents who are returning to The Bahamas from countries where they cannot obtain a COVID-19 RT-PCR (Swab) Test. Proof of their inability to receive a test must be presented upon arrival and the traveler will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Quarantine time may be reduced if the traveler opts to take a test at their expense and receives a negative result.
- Bahamian citizens and legal residents who have been out of The Bahamas for less than 72 hours; however they will be required to quarantine for 14 days. Quarantine time may be reduced if the traveler opts to take a COVID-19 RT-PCR (Swab) Test, at their expense, and receives a negative result.
- All travelers will be required to complete an electronic Health Visa prior to departure at gov.bs. Each traveler will need to upload their test results and provide contact information that is crucial for contact tracing purposes. An automated response will be provided upon completion, and it is essential that travelers present proof of confirmation upon arrival in their destination.
- No quarantine will be required upon arrival; however, travelers who show symptoms of COVID-19 may be transferred to an area away from other passengers for further testing and evaluation. Temperature screenings will take place for all incoming visitors.
- Bahamian government regulations require that all individuals wear a mask or face covering when in public – this includes at the airport, on a plane and in other modes of transportation like buses, taxis and private limousenes.
- We recommend that travellers arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to their flight’s scheduled departure for domestic flights and three hours for international flights in order to give themselves extra time to check in and go through security as well as to allow for a longer boarding process. The current recommended travel times may increase as more people begin to travel.
- Visit https://www.bahamas.com/tourism-reopening for more details on the reopening of The Bahamas to international visitors.
Q&A
- Do I need to wear a mask?
- Bahamian government regulations require that all individuals wear a mask or face covering when in public – this includes at the airport, on a plane and in other modes of transportation like buses, taxis and private cars.
- What if I don’t have my own mask? Are they available at the airport?
- We strongly encourage all travellers to bring their own mask to the airport. In the event that a traveller does not have a mask or if the mask breaks, masks will be available for purchase from airport vendors. The wearing of masks or face covering is mandatory and non-compliance can result in penalties and fines.
- Will my temperature be taken?
- Health officials reserve the right to conduct temperature checks on all travellers. Passengers who present symptoms of COVID-19 will be isolated in a separate area of the airport for further testing and evaluation.
- Will food and beverage operators be open?
- Most food and beverage vendors will be open. However, their menu offerings and service hours may be reduced. There will also be reduced seating in dining areas to allow for physical distancing.
- Can I bring hand sanitizer in my carry-on luggage?
- Passengers can now bring one liquid hand sanitizer container of up to 354 mL (12 ounces) per person in their carry-on luggage. This item will be screened separately from your other liquids and gels.
- Do I need to arrive at the airport earlier than usual?
- We recommend that travellers arrive at the airport at least three hours early for international flights and two hours early for domestic flights in order to give themselves extra time to check in and go through security as well as to allow for a longer boarding process. The current recommended travel times may increase as more people begin to travel.
- I’m experiencing COVID-19 symptoms. Can I still travel?
- Anyone who is experiencing COVID-19 symptoms (which include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose and muscle aches) must stay at home, self-isolate and contact their physician for appropriate care until they are better.
- I was experiencing some COVID-19 symptoms a few days ago, but they have since gone away. Can I still travel?
- It depends. Anyone who has experienced COVID-19 symptoms (which include fever, cough, sore throat, runny nose and muscle aches) in the past 14 days should refrain from travelling unless they have since tested negative for COVID-19.
- I was in contact with someone in the last two weeks who tested positive for COVID-19. Can I still travel?
- It depends. Anyone who has been in contact with someone with a presumed or confirmed case of COVID-19 in the past 14 days should refrain from travelling unless they have since tested negative for COVID-19.
- What changes should I expect aboard my flight?
- Please check with your airline for the latest onboard protocols prior to travelling.
Managing Partner
Windward Public Relations
#29 Windward Road
Nassau, Bahamas
Email: sjohnson@windward-pr.com
Office: 1-242-601-3743
Mobile: 1-242-456-4797
Managing Partner
Windward Public Relations
#29 Windward Road
Nassau, Bahamas
Email: sjohnson@windward-pr.com
Office: 1-242-601-3743
Mobile: 1-242-456-4797
12:00 Noon
Monday, September 2, 2019
Nassau, Bahamas
The Nassau Airport Development Company Ltd. wishes to advise the public that the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) is open for operations today Monday, September 2, 2019. There have been significant flight cancellations and as such the traveling public is asked to contact their respective airlines for flight updates. A listing of all airlines and their contacts can be found on LPIA’s website. Persons are asked to visit LPIA’s website at www.nassaulpia.com and social media channels for the latest information on airport operations.
For further information, please contact:
Jan Knowles, Vice President, Marketing and Commercial Development
Nassau Airport Development Company
Lynden Pindling International Airport
Tel: 242 702-1000
or
Shonalee Johnson
Managing Partner
Windward Public Relations
#29 Windward Road
Nassau, Bahamas
Email: sjohnson@windward-pr.com
Office: 1-242-601-3743
Mobile: 1-242-456-4797
%MCEPASTEBIN%
7:00 A.M.
Monday, September 2, 2019
Nassau, Bahamas
The Nassau Airport Development Company Ltd. wishes to advise the public that the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) is open for operations today Monday, September 2, 2019 although airline schedules may vary.
The traveling public is asked to contact their respective airlines for flight updates. A listing of all airlines and their contacts can be found on LPIA’s website at http://nassaulpia.com/flight-info/airlines-serving-lpia/
A further update will be provided at 12:00 noon today. In the meantime, persons are asked to visit LPIA’s website www.nassaulpia.com and social media channels for the latest information on airport operations.
For further information, please contact:
Jan Knowles, Vice President, Marketing and Commercial Development
Nassau Airport Development Company
Lynden Pindling International Airport
Tel: 242 702-1000
or
Shonalee Johnson
Managing Partner
Windward Public Relations
#29 Windward Road
Nassau, Bahamas
Email: sjohnson@windward-pr.com
Office: 1-242-601-3743
Mobile: 1-242-456-4797
3:00 P.M.
Sunday, September 1, 2019
Nassau, Bahamas
The Nassau Airport Development Company Ltd. wishes to advise the public that the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) is open and operating today. It is anticipated that the airport will be open for operations on Monday, September 2, 2019 although airline schedules may vary.
Nassau airport stakeholders continue to assess the movement and status of Hurricane Dorian. In this regard, Air Traffic Services will be suspended at 10:00 P.M. this evening and resume at 7:00 A.M. on Monday morning due to visibility concerns as a result of heavy rainfall. We will continue to monitor weather conditions closely and provide a further airport update at 7:00 A.M. on Monday, September 2, 2019.
In the meantime, persons are asked to visit LPIA’s website www.nassaulpia.com and social media channels for the latest information on airport operations. The traveling public is encouraged to contact their respective airlines for flight updates. A listing of all airlines and their contacts can be found on LPIA’s website at http://nassaulpia.com/flight-info/airlines-serving-lpia/
For further information, please contact:
Jan Knowles, Vice President, Marketing and Commercial Development
Nassau Airport Development Company
Lynden Pindling International Airport
Tel: 242 702-1000
or
Shonalee Johnson
Managing Partner
Windward Public Relations
#29 Windward Road
Nassau, Bahamas
Email: sjohnson@windward-pr.com
Office: 1-242-601-3743
Mobile: 1-242-456-4797
3:00 P.M.
Saturday, August 31, 2019
Nassau, Bahamas
The Nassau Airport Development Company Ltd. wishes to advise the public that the Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) is open and operating today and it is anticipated that the airport will remain open for operations on Sunday, September 1, 2019 and for the duration of Hurricane Dorian although airline schedules may vary.
Nassau airport stakeholders continue to assess the movement and status of Hurricane Dorian. On its current track, it is not anticipated that Nassau/Paradise Island will experience any storm conditions that would disrupt airport operations.
Notwithstanding, storm conditions could change and we will continue to monitor weather conditions closely and will provide a further airport update at 3:00 P.M. on Sunday, September 1, 2019.
In the meantime, persons are asked to visit LPIA’s website www.nassaulpia.com and social media channels for the latest information on airport operations. The traveling public is encouraged to contact their respective airlines for flight updates. A listing of all airlines and their contacts can be found on LPIA’s website at http://nassaulpia.com/flight-info/airlines-serving-lpia/
For further information, please contact:
Jan Knowles, Vice President, Marketing and Commercial Development
Nassau Airport Development Company
Lynden Pindling International Airport
Tel: 242 702-1000
or
Shonalee Johnson
Managing Partner
Windward Public Relations
#29 Windward Road
Nassau, Bahamas
Email: sjohnson@windward-pr.com
Office: 1-242-601-3743
Mobile: 1-242-456-4797