The existing airport is extremely small and outdated. It barely feels like a true international gateway. The Bahamian government has discussed building a new airport for years. Announcements created excitement, but real progress stayed slow. Construction activity began around June 2025. By December 2025, work still focused on moving dirt and preparing the site. Progress on the ground moved at a gradual pace. Public updates have been rare and limited. Based on current conditions, completion by 2026 looks unlikely. A timeline closer to 2028 may be more realistic. Infrastructure projects in The Bahamas often move slowly. Financing and contractor availability affect the schedule.
Travelers should set realistic expectations. The project still appears early in its development phase. Construction activity remained basic through late 2025. Site preparation continued, but major building had not fully started. Several factors may affect the final delivery date.
Completion dates may shift as conditions change.
A modern airport would improve the arrival experience. The goal is a smoother and more welcoming gateway. The terminal refresh aims to feel calmer and cleaner. Guests should notice comfort from the moment they enter. Planned improvements include faster flow from curb to check in. The layout should work better during busy travel days. Stronger air conditioning should improve comfort. Brighter finishes should improve the space. Improved public facilities should elevate first impressions.
The new design focuses on convenience and comfort. Travelers should move through the airport more easily. Planned interior improvements include a modern departure lounge and a smarter security layout. Expanded immigration areas should support international arrivals. Better customs processing space should reduce delays. These updates aim to reduce waiting times. The goal is a smoother arrival for international visitors. A better airport experience helps guests reach the dock faster. Transfers to Harbour Island should feel easier and less stressful.
A more organized terminal helps visitors start their trip sooner. Less stress on arrival means more time to enjoy the island. Guests could spend more time at the beach, at lunch, or settling into their villa. The airport becomes part of the experience, not an obstacle.
The project includes a new or modernized passenger terminal. It also includes upgrades on the airside. Airside work refers to runway and apron improvements. These upgrades aim to increase safety and capacity. The government described the project as a full terminal overhaul. Plans also include improvements to operational areas.
The terminal design focuses on better flow and more space. Planned features aim to support more visitors each year.
Airside improvements should support future growth.
The project secured major financing in 2024. A development loan agreement reached about 55 million dollars. This agreement involved the Saudi Fund for Development and the Airport Authority of The Bahamas. It was signed on September 9, 2024. In April 2025, the government announced a change. Officials ended the Saudi financing agreement. They moved to a new arrangement with Plenary International Fund. This group also worked on the South Bimini redevelopment. Officials stated funding remained in place. They said construction would begin shortly.
By August 2025, Phase 2 moved forward under a consortium. This group was called Island Airport Development Partners. The consortium reportedly included Phoenix Infrastructure, Plenary Americas, and AvPort as operator and manager. These groups oversee development and operational planning.
Reports from August 2025 described early civil works. Crews focused on clearing land and grading the site. Work included preparing pads for future buildings. Actual building construction was expected to begin in October 2025. At that time, officials targeted completion of the new terminal by the third quarter of 2026. However, progress on the ground still appeared slow by December 2025.
The project aims to increase capacity and improve flow. Officials expect a major boost in passenger numbers. Early plans suggested capacity could grow from about 300,000 to 700,000 visitors yearly.
Officials link the airport upgrade to stronger airlift opportunities. The goal is to attract more domestic and international flights. Improved runway and apron space may support better operations. These upgrades could help meet international standards. Whether larger planes arrive regularly will depend on final runway certification, airline economics, and completed airside specifications.
In November 2025, reports mentioned a new nonstop Bahamasair route. The route connected Fort Lauderdale to North Eleuthera. This type of service may increase access to Harbour Island. More routes could make travel easier over time. Future growth depends on completed infrastructure and airline demand.
The airport upgrade aims to support long term tourism growth. It may improve peak season reliability. Officials expect a stronger travel experience overall. A modern gateway could raise service standards. Potential long term benefits include the following.
For investors and operators, the project signals growth potential. A better airport creates a stronger entry point for the region.
The ultimate goal is simple. The airport should feel organized, refreshed, and easy to use. A smoother arrival helps guests transition quickly. Transfers to Harbour Island should feel effortless. The journey becomes part of the luxury experience. Travelers can start enjoying the island sooner.
