This week, The Islands of The Bahamas and AlaskaAirlines marked a significant milestone jointly welcoming first-ever passengers from Los AngelesInternational Airport (LAX) and Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA) to Lynden Pindling International Airport (NAS) in Nassau, the nation’s booming capital.

Respectively launched on 14 and 15 December, the new nonstop routes provide West Coasttravellers with greater access to the coveted Caribbean paradise renowned for its pristinebeaches, crystal-clear waters and vibrant culture.

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

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

“Our roster of increased flight service is transporting passengers to countries we’ve neverserved before, opening gateways to exciting new destinations,” said Kirsten Amrine, vicepresident 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 Coasttravelers can visit the pristine islands and turquoise waters of The Bahamas.”

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

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

“We are thrilled to welcome the first nonstop flights on Alaska Airlines from Los Angeles andSeattle, making it easier than ever for those on the West Coast to visit our beautifuldestination,” said Joy Jibrilu, Nassau Paradise Island Promotion Board CEO. “This strategicexpansion 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 thisnew route a reality. From white sandy beaches and crystal-clear turquoise waters to culturearound every corner and a variety of world-class resort options, Nassau & Paradise Island offersomething for every type of traveler, and we look forward to having even more West Coasttravelers discover what makes our islands so special.”

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