Air Canada, United, Avianca, Aeroméxico, British, Delta, Emirates, jetBlue, LATAM, and More Airlines Set to Transform Global Aviation at Routes Americas 2025 in Nassau: New Updates You Need To Know

Friday, February 7, 2025

Routes Americas 2025 is set to take center stage in Nassau, The Bahamas, bringing together an elite roster of aviation decision-makers to shape the future of air travel across the region. Now in its 18th edition, the event will welcome vice presidents and network planning executives from 90 leading airlines, facilitating over 3,000 strategic meetings with airport authorities and tourism stakeholders to explore new route development opportunities.

Major carriers slated to attend include Air Canada, Avianca, Aeroméxico, British Airways, Delta Air Lines, Emirates, jetBlue, LATAM Airlines, and United Airlines. With increasing competition in the aviation sector, these discussions will play a crucial role in shaping connectivity and market expansion for the coming years.

Key Airline Leaders to Share Visionary Insights

Beyond route negotiations, Routes Americas 2025 will feature a dynamic Conference Programme, hosting over 25 prominent industry leaders, government officials, and aviation experts. Key speakers include:

• Tracy Cooper, CEO of Bahamasair, who will outline the airline’s strategic direction and its role in strengthening connectivity within the Caribbean and beyond.
• Jude Bricker, CEO of Sun Country Airlines, who will discuss the carrier’s bold approach to network expansion and its impact on leisure and charter travel.
• Neil Chernoff, Chief Planning and Strategy Officer at British Airways, who will provide updates on the airline’s multi-billion-dollar investment strategy and its commitment to sustainable aviation.
• Victor Mejia, Chief Commercial Officer at JetSmart, who will highlight the airline’s expansion into Colombia’s domestic market and the arrival of its highly anticipated A321XLR aircraft.

Nassau & Paradise Island: A Strategic Host Destination

This year’s edition is being hosted by the Nassau & Paradise Island Promotion Board, in collaboration with Nassau Airport Development Company and The Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments & Aviation. As a premier Caribbean destination, Nassau & Paradise Island continues to enhance its air connectivity to accommodate growing demand from global travelers.

In 2024, Nassau’s Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) saw its total departure seat capacity reach three million—an impressive 7% increase compared to the previous year. This upward trend underscores The Bahamas’ position as a key aviation gateway in the region.

With an agenda packed with high-level networking, strategic discussions, and industry-shaping insights, Routes Americas 2025 is poised to be a landmark event, setting the stage for the future of aviation across the Americas.

Steven Small, director of Routes, said: “With a record number of airlines in attendance and our largest ever exhibition, it is clear the pivotal role the event plays for the air service development community in defining the region’s air services. Independent analysis shows that airports in previous host destinations have seen their networks grow by around 6.9% more than comparable airports within three years. With decision-makers from over 90 of the region’s leading and fastest-growing airlines in attendance, Routes Americas 2025 is a unique opportunity for Nassau & Paradise Island to showcase its remarkable growth opportunities and strengthen its position as a key player in the market.”

Joy Jibrilu, CEO of Nassau & Paradise Island Promotion Board, added:“Hosting Routes Americas in 2025 is an incredible opportunity to welcome top travel industry professionals to Nassau & Paradise Island. With Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA) being the first airport outside the U.S. to offer TSA PreCheck, as well as U.S. Customs and Immigration Preclearance and Global Entry expedited clearance, The Bahamas is consistently ranked as a leading destination in the region. We are excited to showcase our vibrant culture and breathtaking beaches to global aviation and tourism decision-makers. We believe this event will spark new partnerships, expand airlift, and enhance awareness of The Bahamas as a premier travel destination. The long-term economic impact will be significant, with increased visitor arrivals, greater investment, and the creation of lasting opportunities for Bahamians.”

Vernice Walkine, President & CEO of Nassau Airport Development Company, commented: “Routes Americas is expected to generate strong economic benefits for The Bahamas by facilitating new opportunities for airlift and strengthening existing partnerships in the market. In the long run, the increased connectivity resulting from this event could lead to higher visitor arrivals, expanded investments in tourism infrastructure, and new prospects for Bahamian businesses. For LPIA, this translates to a greater role as a key economic driver, supporting national development and contributing to economic growth throughout the country.”

Latia Duncombe, Director General, Bahamas Ministry of Tourism, Investments and Aviation, said: “As The Bahamas prepares to welcome Routes Americas 2025, we are focused on leveraging this platform to advance strategic airlift expansion, strengthen global partnerships, and enhance the aviation landscape of the region. With record-breaking tourism growth and ongoing investments in airport infrastructure, this event presents a pivotal opportunity to shape the next phase of connectivity and visitor access. By fostering data-driven route development, embracing emerging technologies, and prioritizing sustainable growth, we aim to create lasting economic benefits that empower Bahamians and reinforce The Bahamas’ position as a leader in travel and tourism.”