A Fort Lauderdale-based airline is launching daily service to Cat Island on November 1, 2025, and has also unveiled plans to expand its route to Stella Maris, Long Island, at the same time.

Makers Air, in a statement, said scheduled service between Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport and New Bight, Cat Island, will begin on November 1 as part of a major expansion in its drive to provide greater Family Island airlift connectivity.

“We’re thrilled to expand our service to meet the growing demand for direct access from South Florida to Cat Island,” said David Hocher, president of Makers Air. “Our goal is to make travel to The Bahamas, particularly to the Out Islands that are not currently well served by the major airlines, as seamless and enjoyable as possible.

“This new expanded schedule into New Bight, Cat Island, underscores our commitment to providing consistent, high quality and reliable airlift into these destinations, and highlights the continued and unwavering support from The Bahamas Out Island Promotion Board and the Ministry of Tourism as we navigate expansion through the Family Islands.”

Flights will operate out of Makers Air’s private terminal at Fort Lauderdale Executive Airport. The carrier also revealed that it is expanding its scheduled flights from the same airport to Stella Maris on Long Island with effect from November 2, 2025. Makers Air will now offer three flights weekly - Tuesday, Thursday and Sunday - as part of its seasonal service which runs from November through August.

Following the successful launch of scheduled flights in winter 2023, Makers Air said strong feedback and requests from local stakeholders for more frequent service prompted the addition of a third weekly flight.

“We’re excited to expand our service to Long Island, offering even more flexibility for travellers while also enhancing access for the island’s residents,” said Mr Hocher. “This additional flight not only supports tourism but also makes it easier for residents to receive essential goods and supplies more quickly and reliably.

“It’s a win for both visitors and the local community, and we are pleased to serve Long Islanders in this regard. I would be remiss without expressing our gratitude to the Bahamas Out Island Promotion Board and Bahamas Ministry of Tourism for their continued partnership and encouragement as we continue to develop these routes.”