Passengers flying with Western Air have experienced unusual delays in recent weeks due to the closure of Runway 14/32 at Lynden Pindling International Airport (LPIA), according to the local airline.
The ongoing closure, part of a major two-month pavement rehabilitation project, has left just one runway operational, causing significant congestion and extended ground times.
In a notice to passengers, Western Air explained that with a full flight schedule and the additional burden of ground delays, the airline has struggled to maintain its usual on-time service. "The combination of congested airspace, extended ground time for takeoffs and landings, and crew duty time limitations have resulted in delays and reaccommodations on select flights," the airline stated.
Two Western Air flights were delayed today, and passengers are being advised to expect possible delays on additional flights.
A flight that typically takes 35 minutes from Nassau to Freeport, for example, is now taking up to 90 minutes as pilots await clearance to land.
The delays have also affected passengers traveling on other airlines, with several reporting long periods of circling in the air as they wait for landing clearance.
The runway closure follows the announcement in January by the Nassau Airport Development Company (NAD) of a major $10 million rehabilitation project on Runway 14/32.
The project, which commenced in February, is expected to be completed before the peak Easter travel period.
NAD said the rehabilitation is a part of its ongoing commitment to enhancing the infrastructure at the country's main international gateway. However, while the improvements are essential, they have caused temporary disruptions for both airlines and passengers, leading to increased travel times.
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