โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
35
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
110
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Refer to airport website for terminal details.
๐ Connection Tips
New Bight Airport serves as the primary gateway to Cat Island's pristine beaches, historic landmarks, and authentic Bahamian culture, operating as a government-owned airport of entry with customs and immigration services available daily from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM. The facility supports the island's growing tourism industry through scheduled services by Bahamasair and Southern Air connecting to Nassau, with typical flight times of 30-40 minutes, plus direct international service from Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport via Makers Air offering two-hour flights that include customs processing. The airport's single 5,049-foot asphalt runway has been recently repaved in the center section and operates from sunrise to sunset without control tower services, requiring pilots to coordinate arrivals and departures through standard uncontrolled airport procedures. Ground transportation requires advance planning, with car rental services available through local providers including Shaquile at Alvernia Food Store, Berto at New Bight Food Store, and Ethera at the New Bight Gas Station, all of whom provide airport pickup services to accommodate arriving passengers. Visitors should note that Cat Island follows left-hand driving rules and road conditions vary significantly due to ongoing repaving construction projects throughout the island, making rental vehicle arrangements essential for exploring attractions beyond the immediate airport area. The airport provides convenient access to Cat Island's premier attractions including Mount Alvernia (the highest point in the Bahamas), the famous Stations of the Cross hand-carved by Father Jerome, the Regatta Site Fish Fry with traditional Bahamian restaurants, and the renowned Da Pink Chicken beach bar. Weather considerations include tropical storm activity during hurricane season from June through November, when flight schedules may experience delays or cancellations, and outdoor boarding conditions under intense Caribbean sun requiring appropriate sun protection and hydration for passenger comfort.
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
60
minutes
Domestic โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Arthur's Town Airport (ATC) serves as a primary aviation gateway for the northern region of Cat Island in the Bahamas. The airport features a small, functional terminal building that embodies the relaxed charm of the Out Islands, managing domestic scheduled flights and private charters. Recently, the facility has undergone significant improvements, including a repaved 7,034-foot runway, which is one of the longest in the southern Bahamas, allowing it to accommodate larger turboprop aircraft and private jets.
Inside the terminal, facilities are modest but provide essential comfort for arriving and departing travelers. There is a simple sheltered waiting area with seating and basic restroom facilities. While the airport does not offer extensive retail shops or duty-free options, a small cafe or snack kiosk is typically available, offering light refreshments and cold drinks. The environment is straightforward, and the absence of jet bridges means that passengers walk directly across the tarmac to their aircraft, often enjoying panoramic views of the island's lush landscape.
Security and operational procedures at Arthur's Town are managed by the Bahamas Department of Civil Aviation, with manual baggage handling and standard passenger identification checks. The airfield serves as a vital link for the local community and the island's boutique resorts, providing a much faster alternative to the mail boat services from Nassau. The terminal provides a centralized and secure meeting point for guests transitioning to the island's pristine beaches and historic sites, including the childhood home of Sidney Poitier located nearby.
๐ Connection Tips
Arthur's Town Airport (ATC) is the essential arrival point for northern Cat Island. For travelers, 'connecting' at ATC involves a domestic flight from Nassau (NAS) followed by a transition to local ground transportation. Most commercial traffic is operated by Western Air or Southern Air. If arriving from an international hub, you must clear Bahamian customs in Nassau before proceeding to the domestic terminal for your 45-minute flight to Cat Island.\n\nGround transportation to the resorts is primarily managed by local taxis. Taxis typically meet scheduled flights, but it is highly recommended to pre-arrange your transfer with your hotel, as on-demand availability can be limited. The drive to central Arthur's Town is short, while coastal resort transfers take 15 to 30 minutes. For explorers, a few local agencies offer car rentals, though these should be booked well in advance to ensure a vehicle is waiting upon landing.\n\nTravelers should be aware that the terminal provides only basic amenities and lacks Wi-Fi or ATMs. It is essential to carry sufficient Bahamian Dollars (BSD) in cash for taxi fares and small purchases, as credit card acceptance is non-existent at the airfield. For departures, aim to arrive 60 to 90 minutes early for manual baggage processing. Always maintain contact with your carrier for real-time updates, as flights in the Out Islands can occasionally be subject to weather adjustments. For missed connections, the airline counters in the main lobby are the primary contact point for assistance.
โ Back to New Bight Airport