The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE


Tribune Business Reporter


nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

Sky Bahamas yesterday said it believes it can generate average 61 per cent load factors on its Freeport to Fort Lauderdale route that will relaunch this Friday.

Sky Bahamas chief executive, Captain Randy Butler, said the move was in response to strong customer demand, and not intended to just benefit his business.

“We want a partnership with the Government in their efforts to bring airlift to Freeport. We want to show the Government that we are capable and willing partners to help build any of the islands of the Bahamas, and particularly Freeport,” said Captain Butler.
 He added: “We look at the prices folks are charging to go between Freeport and Fort Lauderdale. We see sometimes $700-$800, and on holidays $1,100.

“Freeport is probably one of the most expensive airports. We have to continue to work with our partners to make Freeport and Bimini accessible because of the commercial activities going on.

“We’re just trying to get in there and, although the Government has not come and partnered with us, we have offered ourselves to share in the challenges of Freeport. If Freeport takes off, it benefits not only Freeport and Sky Bahamas but the Bahamas at large.”

Sky Bahamas first introduced its Freeport/Fort Lauderdale service to Grand Bahama residents some three years ago before discontinuing it. SkyBahamas is offering a below market rate of $149.99 one-way and $249.99 round trip for the introductory flights.

“We are hoping that the loads there will build beyond 61 per cent,” said Captain Butler. “We want to see how we can build this with the other businesses in Freeport to see how we can have a sustainable relationship and bring affordable and efficient airlift to Freeport.”