BermudAir, the airline serving Bermuda, is significantly increasing its presence in the New York metropolitan area. By the end of October, the airline will offer flights from three different airports in the region, providing travelers with more choices for reaching the island. This expansion includes new service from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), alongside continued flights from Westchester County Airport (HPN).
Key Takeaways
- BermudAir will serve New York from three airports: HPN, LGA, and EWR.
- Daily flights (except Mondays) will be available to Bermuda.
- The airline initially planned to stop HPN service but reversed the decision due to customer feedback.
- BermudAir is expanding its network to 11 destinations by year-end.
BermudAir's Expanded New York Schedule
BermudAir announced its updated flight schedule on Thursday. The airline will maintain its existing service to Westchester County Airport (HPN). This airport is located north of New York City, near White Plains.
In addition to HPN, BermudAir is adding new flights from LaGuardia Airport (LGA) and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR). This strategy creates a 'New York triangle' for travelers heading to Bermuda.
New Flight Details
- Bermuda's L.F. Wade International Airport (BDA) to HPN: Three weekly flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays.
- BDA to EWR: Two weekly flights on Thursdays and Sundays, starting October 26.
- BDA to LGA: Two weekly flights on Wednesdays and Saturdays, starting October 29.
Increased Connectivity to Bermuda
With these new services, BermudAir will offer a total of seven weekly flights to Bermuda from the New York area. This means travelers can fly to Bermuda on any day of the week except Monday. On Thursdays, two flights will be available, one from EWR and one from HPN.
The decision to keep HPN service was a direct response to customer demand. BermudAir had initially planned to stop flights from HPN once the LGA and EWR routes began. However, feedback from passengers led to a change in plans.
"Many of our most loyal and frequent travelers from Westchester and Fairfield counties spoke up — and we listened," said Adam Scott, founder and CEO of BermudAir, in a statement. "With the launch of our 'New York Triangle,' we're offering nonstop flights from three of the most convenient New York City-area airports, providing leisure and business travelers alike with more flexibility and convenient access to Bermuda."
Strategic Growth and Market Niche
BermudAir is expanding its operations beyond Bermuda. Starting December 18, its new subsidiary, AnguillAir, will begin service from Anguilla's Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (AXA) to EWR. This marks a new phase of growth for the airline group.
The airline is developing a specific market niche. It focuses on routes with less demand, using its all-Embraer E-Jet fleet. These smaller jets are suitable for flying a few days a week. BermudAir initially planned to offer all-business class flights. However, it later changed to a standard two-class product, offering both business and economy options.
Airline Fleet and Service Model
BermudAir operates an all-Embraer E-Jet fleet. These aircraft are known for their efficiency on shorter routes and their ability to operate from smaller airports. The airline's decision to switch from an all-business class model to a two-class product reflects a strategy to appeal to a broader range of travelers, balancing premium services with more accessible options.
Expanding Destination Network
By the end of this year, BermudAir will serve 11 destinations across the U.S. and Canada. This includes flights from both Anguilla (AXA) and Bermuda (BDA). Data from aviation analytics firm Cirium supports this expansion.
According to Cirium schedules, BermudAir faces limited competition on many of its routes. For example, Air Canada flies to BDA from Toronto Pearson Airport (YYZ). JetBlue Airways operates flights from Boston Logan International Airport (BOS). United Airlines also flies from EWR to BDA.
- Total Destinations: 11 (U.S. and Canada)
- Operating Hubs: Anguilla (AXA) and Bermuda (BDA)
This strategic expansion allows BermudAir to connect Bermuda and Anguilla to key North American cities. It also provides travelers with more direct and convenient options for island getaways. The focus on customer feedback, particularly for the HPN service, highlights the airline's commitment to passenger needs.
The airline's growth trajectory suggests a successful approach to identifying underserved routes and offering tailored services. This includes adjusting its product offerings to meet market demands, as seen with the shift from an all-business class to a two-class cabin. The 'New York triangle' strategy is a clear example of this focus on customer convenience and market adaptation.
Travelers looking for flights to Bermuda now have increased flexibility. The choice of three New York-area airports, combined with daily service, makes planning trips easier for both leisure and business purposes. This move strengthens BermudAir's position in the niche market of direct flights to the Caribbean from North America.
Competition Overview
While BermudAir faces some competition, it largely operates in niche markets. Main competitors on routes to Bermuda include:
- Air Canada (from Toronto YYZ)
- JetBlue Airways (from Boston BOS)
- United Airlines (from Newark EWR)
BermudAir's strategy of using smaller Embraer E-Jets allows it to serve routes that might not be viable for larger aircraft, giving it an advantage in less-trafficked markets.
Future Outlook for BermudAir
The airline's continued investment in new routes and expanded airport access shows confidence in the demand for travel to Bermuda and Anguilla. This expansion also supports local tourism economies in both island nations.
By listening to its customers and adapting its service model, BermudAir is working to establish itself as a preferred carrier for travel to these destinations. The new 'New York triangle' offers a clear example of this customer-centric approach, providing more choices and convenience for travelers.
