Seamless Bahamas Transfer: Congo Town (COX) to Fort Lauderdale Executive (FXE) with Makers Air

Read the full experience

From the low-slung runway at Congo Town (COX) to the palm-lined ramp at Fort Lauderdale Executive (FXE), Makers Air turns an otherwise gritty point-to-point into a tidy, high-value transfer between the Bahamas and South Florida. This scheduled service links Congo Town on Andros Island with FXE and is built for travelers who prize time: check in 60 minutes before departure, and make sure you’re at the gate no later than 20 minutes before wheels up. The aircraft taxis straight to U.S. Customs on arrival at FXE, so your return is faster and less crowded than flying into major hubs. The scene begins over the clear Bahamian shelf — turquoise shallows, mangrove islands, and the flat, glittering flats where bonefish feed — then moves over the deeper blue of the Gulf Stream toward Florida. Key features: Congo Town’s small airstrip, Andros’s mangrove channels and bonefishing flats, and Fort Lauderdale Executive’s on-site U.S. Customs facility. The natural element that defines the run is the Bahamas’ shallow carbonate platform: broad, pale water that changes color with depth and reef structure. Keep an eye out for exposed coral heads and wading birds as you climb or descend. Practically, Makers Air includes one checked allowance up to 40 lbs per ticketed passenger (personal items included) and complimentary valet parking at FXE; anything above 40 lbs is assessed at $2.00 per pound and is subject to space. Pets travel for a minimum fee of $35 or $2.00 per pound, and crates are available to rent. Important rules: passports are required, and Bahamas Customs now requires a digital submission via the Exempt app for arrivals; agricultural goods need a permit and are restricted. This run is more than logistics. For anglers, photographers, and short-trip seekers, it’s a direct connection to Andros’s famed flats and the Bahamas’ quieter side. It’s also a reminder to travel responsibly: declare all items, respect limits on agricultural imports, and expect variable weather delays—Makers Air disclaims liability for costs incurred from weather or customs delays. Arrive early, pack light, and keep travel papers and cargo receipts handy. Whether you’re chasing a morning bonefish, hopping back to the mainland after a weekend escape, or transporting gear and pets, this flight strips out friction and gets you from small Bahamian airstrip to U.S. Customs in under two hours of travel time. Meeting and check-in details are specific: Congo Town (COX) is the meeting point; flights close 20 minutes prior. For travelers who want a no-nonsense Bahamas link, this service is as efficient as short-haul flying gets. Book early for weekend windows and holiday periods, and bring receipts for any cargo or excess baggage; customer service at Makers Air can clarify fees and pet requirements before you arrive comfortably.

Trip highlights

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

1–2 hours.

Fitness level

Minimal fitness required; you should be able to move luggage and board small aircraft comfortably.

Frequently asked questions

Do I need a passport for this flight?

Yes. All passengers must present a valid passport at check-in to travel between the Bahamas and the U.S.

What is the baggage allowance?

Each ticketed passenger may check up to 40 lbs inclusive of personal items; excess baggage is charged $2.00 per pound and is not guaranteed to make the flight.

When should I arrive to check in?

Arrive and check in no later than 60 minutes before scheduled departure; flights close 20 minutes prior and late passengers forfeit their seat.

Can I bring fruits or plants?

No. Passengers may not bring fruits, vegetables, meat, dairy, poultry, eggs, flowers or plants without an Agriculture Permit issued by the Bahamas government.

How are pets handled?

Makers Air transports pets for a minimum fee of $35 or $2.00 per pound; pets must have a Department of Agriculture permit and a compliant crate.

Will the aircraft go to U.S. Customs at FXE?

Yes. On arrival the aircraft taxis directly to U.S. Customs at Fort Lauderdale Executive, speeding re-entry processing.

Local insights

Wildlife

Bonefish
Frigatebirds

History

Andros Island is noted for extensive mangrove systems and nearshore reef structures that shape traditional fishing and guiding culture on the island.

Conservation

Follow Bahamas agricultural import rules, declare cargo, and pack out waste; sensitive flats and mangroves are easily damaged by unregulated access.

About Makers Air

Makers Air is a Fort Lauderdale, Florida–based regional airline that operates scheduled and charter flights between Fort Lauderdale Executive (FXE) and multiple Bahamian destinations. The airline offers a mix of nonstop scheduled services and private charter options that connect travelers to islands including Chub Cay (CCZ), Staniel Cay (TYM), San Andros (SAQ), Congo Town (COX), Fresh Creek (ASD), Governor’s Harbour (GHB), and Great Harbour Cay (GHC). Makers Air emphasizes convenience and a boutique travel experience: many routes are marketed as quick nonstop flights (often around 60 minutes or under two hours depending on route), private-terminal departures at FXE, and straightforward online booking. Passengers are advised to arrive about 60 minutes before departure and travel with a passport for international clearance. Specific services referenced in route details include weekly flights for Chub Cay and daily service to Fresh Creek, as well as a cozy Cessna experience on some island departures. For travelers booking private charters, the experience can include lounge amenities through Ascend’s facilities, with complimentary valet, fresh foods, and outdoor lounging mentioned for pre‑ or post‑flight comfort. Makers Air positions its flights as a practical link between South Florida and the Bahamas for travelers seeking direct, time-efficient connections, private-terminal convenience, and both scheduled and charter options. All booking details, route availability, and specific flight timings should be confirmed directly with Makers Air at the time of reservation.

Base locationFort Lauderdale, Florida

Tours offered22+

Specialtyaerial-adventures

Adventure tips

Arrive 60 minutes earlyMakers Air requires passengers to check in at least 60 minutes before departure; flights close 20 minutes prior and late arrivals forfeit seats.

Keep baggage under 40 lbsEach ticketed passenger may check up to 40 lbs (including personal items) to avoid $2.00 per pound excess fees and space issues.

Complete Bahamas forms digitallyBahamas Customs requires digital submissions via the Exempt app for arrivals—set this up before you fly to speed processing.

Prepare pets and crates aheadPets travel for a minimum fee; obtain Bahamas Department of Agriculture permits and bring a compliant crate or rent one from Makers Air.

Recommended gear

Passport: Required for travel to and from the United States and for check-in.
Light carry-on or duffel: Keeps weight under the 40 lb allowance and makes transfers faster.
Phone with Exempt app installed: Needed to submit Bahamas Customs forms digitally before arrival.
Sturdy pet crate (if traveling with animals): Required for pet travel; crates can also be rented from Makers Air for a fee.

Photos of the experience

Seamless Bahamas Transfer: Congo Town (COX) to Fort Lauderdale Executive (FXE) with Makers Air photo 1

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