This week, The Islands of The Bahamas and Alaska Airlines marked a significant milestone jointly welcoming first-ever passengers from Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau, the nation’s booming capital.
Respectively launched on December 14 and 15, the new nonstop routes provide West Coast travellers with greater access to the coveted Caribbean paradise renowned for its pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant culture.

“The Bahamas is committed to establishing new partnerships, such as these exciting new routes with Alaska Airlines, that will enhance accessibility to our beautiful shores for all to experience the warm hospitality and rich heritage that awaits,” said The Honourable I. Chester Cooper, Bahamas Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “In 2023, we surpassed record-breaking tourism arrivals eclipsing 8 million visitors, and with this new service, anticipate this momentum to continue steadfast.”

Passengers arrived to Lynden Pindling International Airport greeted and embraced in true Bahamian style, with a spirited and traditional Bahamian Junkanoo welcome, setting the stage for an unforgettable experience in The Bahamas.

“Our roster of increased flight service is transporting passengers to countries we’ve never served before, opening gateways to exciting new destinations,” said Kirsten Amrine, vice president of revenue management and network planning for Alaska Airlines. “For the first time, with the launch of our new routes from both Seattle and Los Angeles to Nassau, our West Coast travelers can visit the pristine islands and turquoise waters of The Bahamas.”

“Nassau is our metropolitan offering, known as the gateway to The Bahamas,” said Latia Duncombe, Director General at the Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. “Upon arrival, visitors will unlock access to our 16 distinct island destinations with only one passport stamp and discover the thrilling adventures that Seattle residents are known to love from snorkeling the Andros Barrier Reef and big game fishing in The Abacos to island-hopping the 365 islands and cays in The Exumas and more.”

Nassau and Paradise Island offer visitors numerous luxury resorts, diverse dining, shopping, a vibrant nightlife and endless authentic Bahamian culture – from art exhibits to historical landmarks. The bustling capital also serves as the launch pad and gateway to unlock the splendour of all 16 islands in The Bahamas.

“We are thrilled to welcome the first nonstop flights on Alaska Airlines from Los Angeles and Seattle, making it easier than ever for those on the West Coast to visit our beautiful destination,” said Joy Jibrilu, Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board CEO. “This strategic expansion is a testament to the collaborative efforts between our destination and our airline partners and I want to thank Alaska Airlines and their planning team for working to make this new route a reality. From white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters to culture around every corner and a variety of world-class resort options, Nassau & Paradise Island offer something for every type of traveler, and we look forward to having even more West Coast travelers discover what makes our islands so special.”

The direct service will operate four-times weekly from Los Angeles and three-times weekly from Seattle. Travellers can learn about the new service and the destination by visiting AlaskaAir.com, Bahamas.com and NassauParadiseIsland.com.