The recent launch of airlift between Anguilla and the Eastern US by BermudAir has proven to inject a significant contribution to the local economy. According to Director of Tourism, Jameel Rochester, early data from BermudAir bookings is already revealing a promising trend, and he observed that American visitors are staying longer than ever before.
Since the inaugural arrival of BermudAir flights to Anguilla last December, the island’s economy has received a boost with an estimated US$3.38 Million injected in the island’s coffers.
It all began with the launch of flights on December 17th, 18th and 19th, connecting Anguilla directly to key North American getaways, namely Newark, Boston and Baltimore. These routes tap in one of the island’s more important tourism markets further strengthening Anguilla’s position as a premier Caribbean destination.
From the Boston route, typically, travelers are booking their stay for an impressive nine days, while visitors from Newark are spending between eight and nine days on island. The Baltimore market is also performing strongly with tourists staying for between seven and eight days.
Indeed, these extended visits, when compared to the traditional five and six day stays, are translating in greater spending across the local economy, positively impacting sectors like accommodation, dining, transportation and other activities, amplifying the overall economic impact.
Mr. Rochester emphasized the fact that BermudAir’s entry into Anguilla’s tourism market is more than just increased airlift. It represents a strategic win for Anguilla’s tourism industry by driving longer stays, deeper visitor engagement, and stronger economic returns for Anguilla.
Mr. Rochester was guest on the Government radio programme, “Just the Facts” last Tuesday, May 17th. “When we look at the economic impact since the launch of BermudAir in December of 2025,” he said, “we have seen a tax injection of about US$1.4 Million into the local economy.”
“In January, which was the peak demand for the airline, we have seen income of US$2.34 Million into the economy, which includes airport taxes and visitors’ average spending,” he noted. “And up until the middle of last month, we have seen a total of US3.38 Million injected in the economy.”
Mr. Rochester also pointed to expanding opportunities within the regional aviation sector, noting that local airlines are benefiting from increased connectivity. He highlighted a growing trend where travelers from St. Martin make their way to Anguilla, specifically to connect with BermudAir flights to the Northeastern US, to gain access to Newark, Boston or Baltimore.
