Bahamas: The Ultimate Wonderland for Pilots!
When I was a young man and my Dad bought a plane I was able to learn to fly in a summer barefooted in a vintage taildragger I was forever hooked on the freedom and wonder of flying.
I said to my Dad, "Let's get a six place aircraft so we can fly the family on adventures." He explained that his idea of fun flying was all in a 50 mile circle just to have fun...like some guys would walk the golf course. I explained that I had dreams of flying everywhere. He encouraged me to follow my dreams and boy have I!
When I first learn to fly, I was like a lot of pilots that I've spoken with, the number one place I wanted to fly was the Bahamas! It seemed like such a fabulous destination. Close enough to get to but exotic and filled with adventure and possibilities. Well I'm here to tell you its all that and a lot more!
Over the following decades, I've enjoy a special love affair with flying to the Bahamas. I even help start and run a christian mission flying organization that taught pilots how to fly to the Bahamas for disaster relieve to learn mission flying.
If you have any inkling of interest to make this destination one of your pilot goals I encourage you whole-heartedly and am providing these images and videos to help inspire your along.
The Bahamas offer a variety of out island destinations that are popular among private pilots. Here are some of the most popular ones along with details of the airports and top things to do at each destination:
1. Exuma:
- Airport: Exuma International Airport (MYEF)
- Top things to do: Visit the famous swimming pigs at Pig Beach, explore the Exuma Cays Land and Sea Park, snorkel at Thunderball Grotto, and relax on the pristine beaches.
2. Abaco:
- Airport: Marsh Harbour Airport (MYAM)
- Top things to do: Explore the charming towns of Hope Town and Man-O-War Cay, go fishing or boating in the crystal-clear waters, visit the Abaco National Park, and enjoy local cuisine at beachfront restaurants.
3. Eleuthera:
- Airport: Governor's Harbour Airport (MYEM)
- Top things to do: Discover the unique Glass Window Bridge, relax on the pink sand beaches of Harbour Island, explore the Preacher's Cave and the Queen's Bath, and snorkel at the Leon Levy Native Plant Preserve.
4. Long Island:
- Airport: Deadman's Cay Airport (MYLD)
- Top things to do: Visit Dean's Blue Hole, one of the world's deepest blue holes, explore the Columbus Monument and the Hamilton's Cave, relax on the secluded beaches, and go bonefishing in the flats.
5. Andros:
- Airport: Andros Town Airport (MYAF)
- Top things to do: Explore the Andros Barrier Reef, the third-largest barrier reef in the world, go birdwatching in the Andros National Park, visit the Blue Holes National Park, and enjoy diving and snorkeling in the pristine waters.
These out island destinations in the Bahamas offer private pilots a chance to explore the natural beauty, culture, and adventure that the islands have to offer.
Here is a brief bulleted list on how to fly a private aircraft to the Bahamas:
- Plan your route and obtain necessary charts and information for the flight.
- Check the weather forecast and ensure it is safe to fly to the Bahamas.
- Make sure your aircraft is properly maintained and all required documents are up to date.
- Obtain the necessary permits and clearances for international flight.
- File a flight plan and communicate with air traffic control throughout the flight.
- Ensure you have all required documents for yourself and any passengers, including passports and customs forms.
- Familiarize yourself with Bahamian aviation regulations and procedures.
- Land at your designated airport of entry in the Bahamas and follow all customs and immigration procedures.
- Enjoy your flight and the beautiful destination of the Bahamas!
Here is an International Flying Guide from LifeStyle Aviation that provides you everything you need to know about flying internationally.
Summary
Our hope is to inspire you for achieving your aviation lifestyle and the Bahamas are top of the list of magical places to visit by your very own private aircraft. Our Team at LifeStyle Aviation is here to help you plan your aviating goals and to help you make those life goals a reality. Please reach out and let us help make your dreams a reality.