Bermuda Reports 4 Percent Increase in Air Passenger Arrivals

Bermuda Reports 4 Percent Increase in Air Passenger Arrivals

Bermuda hosted 80,462 airline passenger arrivals in the second quarter of 2011, a 4 percent increase over the 77,512 air visitors recorded during the same period in 2010, said Patrice K. Minors, minister of business development and tourism. The average number of nights stayed in Bermuda hotels increased to 4.80 nights from 4.72 nights during the period, according to Minors.

The nine largest member properties of the Bermuda Hotel Association (BHA), representing 75 percent of the island’s inventory, reported a 3 percent room occupancy increase in the second quarter of 2011.

This followed a 3 percent first-quarter increase, Minors said, adding that July 2011 occupancy is expected grow by 6 percent, August up by 19 percent, and September is projected to increase by 8 percent. Bermuda’s hotels are currently forecasting a 6 percent increase through the end of the year, said Minors.

“We are encouraged by the forecasts moving forward,” Minors said. “The tourism environment is more competitive than ever so we must continue to stress our proximity, outstanding events and diverse attractions to international visitors.