BermudAir Adapts to Passenger Demand with New Dual-Class Cabin
Flights on the exclusive startup carrier will be accessible to more passengers later this year with the introduction of dual-class cabins
Photo: Courtesy of BermudAir
Just weeks after launching its first-ever flights, BermudAir has announced it will abandon its model as an all-business class airline and introduce economy fares later this year due to high demand.
The startup airline operated its first commercial flight on August 31 after marketing itself as an exclusive “all-business class” carrier connecting people between the British Overseas Territory of Bermuda and the U.S. East Coast.
Until now, its fleet of leased Embraer E175 aircraft has been equipped with standard economy cabins comprising 88 seats in a 2-2 configuration. However, each passenger is reserved two seats—both the aisle and window seat—providing extra comfort and exclusivity, allowing it to sell all its tickets as ‘business class.’
BermudAir has now confirmed that it will be abandoning this strategy later this year and will retrofit its cabins to be dual-class.
Photo: Courtesy of Bermudair
The exact details of the new configuration are yet to be released, but the new layouts are expected to take flight sometime in Q4 2023. The carrier said its reasons behind the change in strategy was to increase capacity between Bermuda and the U.S. while also responding to passenger feedback.
“The strategic shift in service enables the airline to honor its commitment to Bermuda while also responding to evolving market dynamics and preliminary guest feedback from its phased launch,” said the airline. “The dual-class cabin will also allow guests to choose a travel experience that aligns with their individual needs and preferences.”
Currently, BermudAir operates three routes from Bermuda International Airport (BDA): to Boston Logan International Airport (BOS), Westchester County Airport (HPN) in White Plains, New York, and Fort Lauderdale-Hollywood International Airport (FLL). All routes are operated six times per week.
Photo: Courtesy of BermudAir
BermudAir has already commenced the sale of economy class tickets on their website. The starting price for a one-way ticket from Fort Lauderdale to Bermuda is $299—a significant reduction compared to the business class fares, which start at $799 for the same flight.
According to the website, passengers choosing economy class will also be permitted one checked bag up to 32kgs (70lbs), premium snacks and drinks, and free seat selection.
“Since launching in August, we have remained steadfast in our commitment to increase air capacity for Bermuda and serve the business and tourism needs of the island,” said Adam Scott, CEO of BermudAir. “A dual-class cabin allows us to continue to deliver on that promise, giving our guests more options to fly with BermudAir.
“After nearly 170 successful flights, it’s clear that there is strong demand for direct, short-haul, and premium flights between Bermuda and the East Coast. We’ve had overwhelmingly positive feedback from our guests about their experience on BermudAir, but guests also desire more options and flexibility. BermudAir is uniquely positioned to fill that need with our dual-class cabin.”
