Easy Tips for Flying to The Bahamas
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Easy Tips for Flying to The Bahamas

September 18, 2020

Sitting just 50 miles off the coast of Florida, the turquoise waters of The Bahamas make an ideal escape for pilots of Cirrus aircraft. Few other countries offer the opportunity for true seclusion – with adventures on the land and in the water while you relax and recharge on this island oasis, with 700 individual islands and more than 50 airports. 

Pristine sand beaches are ubiquitous in The Bahamas but it doesn’t stop there. The Bahamas offer something for everyone, but a few of our favorite planes to explore include:

  • Harbour Island’s award-winning pink sand beaches
  • Breathtaking vistas of two strikingly different bodies of water in Eleuthera
  • The world’s third largest barrier reef in Andros
  • Record-holding deep blue holes in Long Island
  • Exuma’s 365-cays exotic hideaways – frequented by celebrities
  • The ecological wonders found in Grand Bahama

Always known for incredible hospitality, the country also been very proactive in creating a safe environment for travelers during the global pandemic caused by COVID-19. In fact, according to the Bahamas Minister of Tourism and Aviation, the country has implemented Bahamas Customs and Immigration services at the gateways of select FBO operators, including Banyan and Sheltair in Fort Lauderdale. These additional services provide private pilots and their guests expedited processing so they can enjoy more time on vacation and less time at the gate.

Below are current requirements to enter The Bahamas, but we also recommend reviewing up-to-date local requirements prior to booking travel by visiting www.bahamas.com/travelupdates.

  • Approved Bahamas Health Visa available at travel.gov.bs
  • Proof of a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR test, taken no more than five days prior to arrival.*
  • Mandatory “Vacation in Place” (VIP) distinction, for 14 days or the length of visitor stay – whichever is shorter. Lodging must be at a hotel, private club, rented accommodations (like Airbnb or VRBO), or accommodations on a private boat.

*Children under the age of ten, and corporate pilots/crew who remain overnight in The Bahamas are not required to provide proof of a COVID-19 test.