โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Cat Cay Airport (CXY) is an exclusive private aviation facility located on North Cat Cay in the Bimini district of the Bahamas. Situated approximately 15 miles south of Bimini, the airport is owned and operated by the Cat Cay Yacht Club, one of the most prestigious and private island clubs in the Caribbean. As a private facility, the airport is not open to the general public; use of the airstrip is strictly reserved for members of the Yacht Club or those who have secured official sponsorship from a member.
The airport's infrastructure is tailored for light private aircraft and specialized charter operations. It features a single asphalt runway, designated as 13/31, which measures 2,000 feet (609 meters) in length and sits at an elevation of exactly zero feet above mean sea level. Given the runway's relatively short length, operations are typically limited to high-performance single and twin-engine aircraft, as well as specialized amphibious planes that can navigate the island's unique coastal environment.
Several boutique charter operators provide regular service to Cat Cay, most notably Tropic Ocean Airways and Fly the Whale. These operators often utilize seaplanes and turboprops to whisk members from the Florida coast directly to the island's doorstep, bypassing the more crowded international hubs. While there is no traditional commercial passenger terminal, the 'arrival experience' is centered around the Yacht Club's world-class facilities, where members receive personalized service, customs coordination, and immediate access to the island's marina and residential areas.
Facilities on the island are geared toward a luxury, low-density lifestyle. There are no on-site refueling or extensive mechanical services available for transient aircraft, and all flights must be coordinated with the club's management well in advance. The airport provides a critical link for the island's residents and visitors, ensuring that this remote and beautiful Bahamian cay remains easily accessible for those part of its exclusive community while maintaining the tranquility and security that the club is known for.
๐ Connection Tips
Plan transfers carefully at Cat Cay Airport.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
South Bimini International Airport (BIM) is the primary aviation gateway to the Bimini islands in the Bahamas, currently undergoing a transformative US$80 million redevelopment project. Managed by Bimini Airport Development Partners under a long-term concession that began in 2024, the airport is transitioning from a modest regional airstrip into a modernized international facility. This significant investment is designed to support the region's booming luxury tourism sector and will culminate in the opening of a state-of-the-art terminal building by late 2025, featuring a spacious departures lounge, expanded ticketing areas, and enhanced customs and immigration processing.
The redevelopment includes a major expansion of the aircraft apron to accommodate up to four commercial airliners simultaneously, along with significant upgrades to general aviation parking for private pilots. The facility is being equipped with advanced navigational aids, new runway lighting systems (PAPI), and modernized safety infrastructure to enable more consistent international operations. These improvements have already attracted major carriers, with American Airlines scheduled to launch new nonstop service from Miami (MIA) in early 2026, supplementing the existing regional links provided by Silver Airways and Western Air.
Amenities within the new terminal will include a welcoming central courtyard with diverse concession options, retail boutiques, and premium seating areas. While construction is underway, travelers should expect a functional but basic experience in the temporary facilities, focusing on essential services like baggage reclaim and on-site car rentals. A unique aspect of the BIM experience is its location on South Bimini; upon arrival, most travelers take a short and scenic five-minute ferry ride across the channel to reach the resorts, marinas, and beaches of North Bimini. The airport's modernization is expected to solidify its role as a premier Caribbean gateway for world-class fishing, diving, and marine research.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting through South Bimini Airport (BIM) is a unique experience that combines standard aviation logistics with a scenic island transfer. As of early 2026, the airport is undergoing a transformative $80 million redevelopment, featuring a modern terminal building and upgraded airfield infrastructure. A landmark development for the region is the launch of American Airlinesโ nonstop service from Miami (MIA) in February 2026, complementing existing regional links from Nassau (NAS) and Fort Lauderdale (FLL) provided by Western Air and Silver Airways.
A critical tip for travelers arriving at BIM is to plan for the multi-stage connection to North Bimini, where most major resorts are located. Upon clearing Bahamian customs and immigration, you must take a short five-minute taxi ride to the South Bimini ferry dock. From there, a government-regulated water taxi or a private resort shuttle will transport you across the channel to Alice Town in approximately ten minutes. For a stress-free connection, it is advisable to allow at least 60 to 90 minutes for this entire land-and-sea transfer, especially during peak afternoon arrival windows.
If you are connecting to an international flight in Miami or Fort Lauderdale, ensure you have your return ticket and valid passport ready for inspection before departing BIM. For those who prefer a more direct route, Tropic Ocean Airways offers seaplane services directly to the North Bimini Seaplane Base (NSB), bypassing the South Bimini transfer entirely. Within the BIM terminal, construction is ongoing through late 2025, so facilities remain functional but basic. Travelers should ensure their electronic devices are charged and carry essential supplies, as the new terminalโs extensive concession areas and retail boutiques are still being finalized.
โ Back to Cat Cay Airport