The Tribune

By NATARIO McKENZIE

Tribune Business Reporter

nmckenzie@tribunemedia.net

Bahamasair expects to return to a “full schedule” today following the passage of Hurricane Irma, its chairman told Tribune Business yesterday.

Tommy Turnquest said in a statement that its normal operations will resume today based on weather and airport conditions. However, he noted that its ability to resume services to Florida will depend on the opening of airports in Miami, Fort Lauderdale, West Palm Beach and Orlando.

Mr Turnquest told Tribune Business: “We expect to have a full schedule tomorrow. We would have hoped to go to Grand Bahama at 4pm, but that is not possible as they still do not have the all clear.

“We took the fleet down to Jamaica, and the problem over the weekend was that Jamaica ‘s radar got hit by lightning and all flights were cancelled as a result. All is well and we’re on our way back.

“Bahamasair is prepared to help in the repatriation of persons with regards to NEMA and anything else required of us. I was very pleased see the level of professionalism and efficiency of Bahamasair management and staff in terms of helping to evacuate persons. I think they did an excellent job. In fact, I spoke to the Prime Minister on Friday and he said to commend them.”