Barbuda has a brand-new international airport, signalling the start of a new chapter for the island’s connectivity, tourism, and economic growth by offering direct connections to global destinations without a stop in neighbouring Antigua first.
Inaugurated on Oct. 3, the $US14-million facility boasts a 1,900-m. runway, which is significantly longer than the 500-m. runway at Codrington Airport and twice as wide, enabling it to accommodate larger aircraft, including private jets and planes such as the Embraer E-170.
Equipped with a full LED runway lighting system, the airport also now allows for regular night landings. A 185-m. parking apron can host multiple private jets, enhancing Barbuda’s appeal as a luxury destination known for its beaches, serenity, nature, and exclusive experiences.
Additionally, a modern Fixed Base Operator (FBO) terminal developed by PLH (Peace, Love and Happiness) will cater to high-end travellers.
“We have taken bold steps to modernize this island, ensuring that its air links are second to none in this region so that Barbuda can also take advantage of the remarkable growth in our country’s tourism that we have seen this year,” said tourism minister Charles Fernandez.
Stay-over tourism air arrivals in Antigua and Barbuda are reported to have grown at a rate of +17% in the first eight months of 2024 where the destination welcomed 229,225 visitors. This is a +13% growth on arrivals at the same time in 2019, the best year for tourism arrivals.
The opening of the facility is a major milestone in the government’s vision to position Barbuda as a premier luxury destination.
“An international airport is a game changer for Barbuda as we look to attracting the luxury traveller and private jet owners from around the world to Barbuda and showcasing the island’s beauty, pink sand beaches, eco-experiences, wellness attributes and culture to all our visitors”, said Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority CEO, Colin C. James.
The Government of Antigua and Barbuda has announced further expansion plans for the Barbuda International Airport (BIA), which is located a 10-minute drive from Codrington village.
Additionally, Fernandez announced that, “for the first time ever, Barbuda will see 23 luxury cruise ship calls, bringing 5,039 cruise passengers to this beautiful island for the upcoming winter cruise season.”
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