Barbuda International Airport opens, ushering in new era for tourism

Antigua and Barbuda celebrated a significant milestone on October 3, 2024, with the official opening of the Barbuda International Airport. This state-of-the-art facility marks a new chapter for the island, promising enhanced connectivity, tourism growth, and economic development.

The $14 million airport boasts a 6,100-foot runway, significantly larger than its predecessor, Codrington Airport. This upgrade enables the accommodation of larger aircraft, including private jets and regional jets like the Embraer E-170. The airport’s modern infrastructure, including LED runway lighting and a 600-foot parking apron, caters to the needs of both commercial and private aviation.

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Barbuda Belle

BARBUDA BELLE Luxury Beach Hotel offers beachfront accommodations (bungalows and a villa) on Barbuda’s pristine beaches in the Caribbean.

To complement the airport’s facilities, a new Fixed Base Operator (FBO) terminal, developed by PLH (Peace, Love and Happiness), is designed to provide high-end travellers with exceptional services. This luxury facility will further solidify Barbuda’s reputation as a premier destination for those seeking pristine beaches, tranquillity, and exclusive experiences.

With the Barbuda International Airport now operational, the island is poised to attract a wider range of visitors and investors, contributing to its economic prosperity and sustainable development.

“This new Barbuda International Airport is a shining testament to the visionary leadership of our government,” said Antigua and Barbuda’s Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Transportation, The Honourable Charles Fernandez. “We have taken bold steps to modernise 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.”

‘Strong tourism growth in 2024’

Antigua and Barbuda has experienced a remarkable surge in stay-over tourism arrivals during the first eight months of 2024. The twin-island destination welcomed 229,225 visitors, representing a 17% increase compared to the same period in 2023. This growth is particularly noteworthy when considering that it surpasses even the pre-pandemic peak of 2019, with a 13% increase over 2019 figures.

The recent opening of the Barbuda International Airport plays a pivotal role in driving this tourism boom. This state-of-the-art facility aligns with the government’s vision to position Barbuda as a world-class luxury destination. Prime Minister Gaston Browne’s unwavering commitment to sustainable development and economic prosperity for Barbuda is evident in this transformative project.

As a result of these positive developments, Antigua and Barbuda are well-positioned to continue attracting discerning travellers seeking exceptional experiences and contribute to the region’s economic growth.

“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.

In additional exciting news, Minister 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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Barbuda International Airport officially opens

A distinguished gathering of government officials, industry leaders, and dignitaries attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony for the Barbuda International Airport. Governor General Sir Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez, and other key figures celebrated this significant milestone for the island.

Several airlines, including Liat, BMN Air, Calvin Air, and private jets operating through the PLH FBO, have already scheduled flights to the new airport. The government of Antigua and Barbuda has also unveiled plans for future expansion of the facility, which is conveniently located just a 10-minute drive from Codrington village.

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About Barbuda

Barbuda (Bar-byew’da), located 27 miles northeast of its sister island Antigua, is a pristine 62-square-mile coral island known for its untouched pink coral and white sand beaches. With a highest point of just 125 feet above sea level, Barbuda offers a serene, low-lying landscape perfect for relaxation and exploration. The island’s capital is Codrington, home to most of Barbuda’s 1,500+ residents.

Barbuda enjoys warm, sunny weather year-round, with soothing trade winds and average temperatures ranging from the mid-70s in winter to the mid-80s in summer. Barbuda is a tranquil paradise for nature lovers and adventure seekers alike.

Travel to Barbuda is convenient, with flights from Antigua into the new Barbuda International Airport taking approximately 15 minutes. Visitors can also opt for a scenic 90-minute ferry ride. Once on the island, guests can enjoy a range of activities, including snorkelling, diving, bird watching at the Frigate Bird Sanctuary, exploring historical sites like Martello Tower, or simply unwinding on the famous pink sand beaches.

For accommodation, Barbuda presently offers an exclusive boutique hotel, beach cottages, guesthouses, and B&Bs, with dining options ranging from local favourites like Uncle Roddy’s, and Wa’omoni to the internationally renowned Nobu.

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