BermudAir launches nonstop Fort Lauderdale–Belize flights; four more routes to follow

BermudAir launched its inaugural service to Belize on Monday, October 26th, making it the newest airline to connect the country to the United States. The first flight from Fort Lauderdale, Florida, expands Belize’s air connectivity, with additional services from Boston, Massachusetts; Raleigh-Durham, North Carolina; and Tampa Bay and Orlando, Florida, scheduled to begin in December.
The inaugural flight touched down at the Philip Goldson International Airport at approximately 11:30AM. The Fort Lauderdale route will operate every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday. The aircraft received the customary water cannon salute, while passengers and crew were greeted with special treats and welcomed by representatives of the Belize Tourism Board (BTB) and the Ministry of Tourism.
Ms. Nicole Usher, Chief Executive Officer of the Ministry of Tourism, Youth, Sports and Diaspora Relations, said the additional flights are expected to increase visitor arrivals, particularly during the upcoming high season. BTB Director of Tourism Evan Tillett described the expansion as important to the industry.
“Any new route is significant for the destination because air connectivity is the lifeblood of our tourism industry,” Tillett told reporters. He added that considerable groundwork is required before a new commercial airline begins operating flights to Belize.
The additional services are scheduled to begin on December 20th. Flights from Boston will operate on Wednesdays and Saturdays, while the Tampa Bay route will run on Thursdays and Sundays. Raleigh-Durham flights will operate on Mondays and Fridays, and Orlando services will run on Sundays and Mondays.
The new routes could also boost visitor arrivals to Caye Caulker and San Pedro, Ambergris Caye, where some tourism businesses have reported a difficult season. Operators hope the additional flights will strengthen business during the upcoming high season.
“It has been the worst season for tourism business,” said one tour operator, whose company has struggled to remain operational. Some restaurant owners also reported slow business and closures, while those still operating expressed hope that the upcoming season and expanded flight options will bring more visitors.