Bahamasair Long Island Flights Rerouted: Why Deadman’s Cay Airport is Closing.
Key Points
- 1Rerouting begins January 19, 2026, shifting all Bahamasair Long Island service from Deadman's Cay (LGI) to Stella Maris (SML) until further notice.
- 2The temporary change facilitates a $20 million Deadman’s Cay Airport expansion, part of the Family Island Airport Renaissance Project.
- 3Upgrades include extending the runway to approximately 6,500 feet, enabling the airport to accommodate larger commercial aircraft like the Boeing 737 for future direct international flights.
- 4Customers with existing bookings will not be charged change fees due to the necessary operational adjustment.
Bahamasair has announced a temporary flight change for its Long Island air service.
The national flag carrier will reroute all flights from Deadman’s Cay Airport (LGI) to Stella Maris Airport (SML). This adjustment begins on January 19, 2026. The last flight into Deadman’s Cay will operate the day before, on January 18, 2026.
This Stella Maris Airport reroute will continue until further notice. The airline cited ongoing Deadman’s Cay Airport upgrades as the reason for the service change.
Facilitating Major Airport Infrastructure Improvements
The temporary closure is necessary to facilitate a major government initiative. Deadman’s Cay is undergoing significant airport infrastructure improvements. This work is part of the larger Family Island Airport Renaissance Project.
This multi-million dollar investment aims to modernize the island’s primary gateway. The project includes reconstruction and expansion of the facility.
Scope of Deadman’s Cay Upgrades
The key focus is on the runway and the Deadman’s Cay terminal. The runway is being extended and elevated. This will increase its length to approximately 6,500 feet.
This extension is critical for future air service. It will allow the airport to accommodate larger aircraft. Specifically, the new runway will handle planes like the Boeing 737 consistently.
This capability is expected to open the door for direct international flights. It will also support Long Island's growing tourism and trade sectors. The new terminal building is estimated to cost over $10 million.
Impact on Bahamasair Long Island Flights
For passengers, the immediate change means flying into Stella Maris Airport. Stella Maris is located about a 45-minute drive north of Deadman's Cay.
Bahamasair Long Island flights customers with existing bookings will not incur change fees. The airline has waived all associated costs due to the adjustment.
This proactive measure minimizes disruption for travelers. It also ensures continued air access to the island during construction.
Passengers needing assistance should contact the airline directly. The Bahamasair Reservations Department is available at (242) 702-4140. Customers can also visit a City Ticket Office or email customerrelations@bahamasair.com.
The Bahamas Government has stated the overall project is a declaration of confidence in Long Island. The airside works are targeted for completion by June 2026. The new terminal construction is expected to take 18 months. The finished Deadman’s Cay Airport Deadman’s Cay Airport will meet global aviation standards.
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Ujjwal SukhwaniAviation News Editor & Industry Analyst delivering clear coverage for a worldwide audience.
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