Column: Smith On BermudAir & More

[Opinion column written by the OBA's Dion Smith]

In light of recent news involving Bermuda Air and their legal dispute, I want to be clear that my purpose here is not to weigh in on the legal matter itself, but to raise broader awareness around the need to support visionary initiatives especially those aimed at addressing long-standing challenges in Bermuda’s economy and accessibility.

When Bermuda Air launched, it did so with a mission to serve an underserved and overpriced market. For decades, Bermuda has struggled with high travel costs, a limited number of routes, and seasonal tourism all of which impact not only the local economy, but also the affordability and practicality of visiting or living here.

Let us not forget: Bermuda is another world; a phrase we often use with pride, but one that should also remind us of our unique realities. We are a 21-square-mile island with no natural exports, limited natural resources, and one of the highest costs of living in the world. We are a net zero importer of goods and energy. Our geography and infrastructure naturally create constraints, but those constraints also create opportunities if we approach them with intention and unity.

Unlike many of our Caribbean counterparts who have diversified their economies, grown their tourism sectors, and built attractive ecosystems for investment and innovation, Bermuda remains largely seasonal in its tourism and heavily dependent on a few key industries. While our uniqueness is valuable, it also requires that we are more strategic, collaborative, and supportive of those trying to bring sustainable solutions to the table.

Investors who believe in Bermuda, who want to help us become more affordable, more connected, and more resilient, deserve more than scrutiny they deserve consideration and support, especially when their intentions align with the island’s long-term wellbeing.

This is not about ignoring problems or pretending everything is perfect. It’s about facing our realities together and being open to evolving economically, socially, and environmentally. If we want to sustain Bermuda’s future for generations to come, we must find ways to foster ecosystems that encourage innovation, collaboration, and meaningful investment.

Bermuda has always been resilient. But resilience alone isn’t enough. We need direction, vision, and unity of purpose. Let’s support those who are working toward that, and let’s start having the conversations that move us all forward.

- Dion Smith was the OBA candidate for constituency 27, Warwick North Central in the February 2025 General Election.

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