The transformation of North Eleuthera Airport—an essential gateway for visitors traveling to Harbour Island—is finally moving ahead with new partners, updated financing, and a faster construction schedule. After years of delay, major improvements are now underway, signaling a big shift in regional travel and infrastructure.
The original plan for the Eleuthera Airport Expansion Harbour Island project was backed by a $55 million loan from the Saudi Fund for Development, signed in 2024. It promised to double annual passenger capacity to 700,000, aiming to match the sharp growth in tourism and improve conditions for both locals and international visitors. However, slow progress and red tape caused the Bahamian government to cancel that agreement in favor of a public-private partnership with Island Airport Development Co., the same firm behind Bimini Airport upgrades. Backed by the Plenary International Fund, this new approach is expected to move faster and with better execution.
Construction is now being rolled out in phases. Immediate repairs are already in progress at the current terminal—fixing the roof, installing air conditioning, and remediating mold to offer temporary comfort. The full buildout includes a new terminal that will feature modern check-in areas, spacious waiting zones, food and retail outlets, and a refreshed overall design that reflects the tropical elegance of the region. The airside improvements are equally ambitious: a widened and resurfaced runway, larger apron space, and upgraded taxiways to allow larger aircraft to operate efficiently.
To ensure travel continuity, work is being staggered between North Eleuthera and Governor’s Harbour Airport so one remains open while the other is under construction. According to recent Harbour Island News updates, this logistical strategy should minimize disruptions and keep tourism flowing throughout the island chain. The goal is for the North Eleuthera phase to be completed by mid-2026, with other nearby airports like Rock Sound and Governor’s Harbour following soon after.
What sets this development apart isn’t just the infrastructure, but the improved planning and execution model. The new PPP framework accelerates timelines, ensures long-term maintenance, and brings in experienced international airport developers—something that the original financing lacked. For the Eleuthera Airport Expansion Harbour Island project, that means better oversight, more reliable budgeting, and a higher likelihood of staying on schedule.
For travelers, this is a long-awaited upgrade that will enhance the first and last impressions of visiting the island. From better amenities to smoother arrivals, the revamped airport is expected to create a seamless experience aligned with the luxury and comfort found throughout Harbour Island.
As reported across multiple Harbour Island News sources, these changes represent a much-needed boost for the region, both economically and in terms of traveler satisfaction. And by 2026, visitors can expect a modern, efficient, and welcoming entry point that matches the beauty and prestige of the island itself.
