The twin-island destination of Antigua and Barbuda has ushered in a new era of air travel with the opening of the Barbuda International Airport (BIA) on Oct. 3.

With the US$14 million airport, Barbuda now offers direct connections to global destinations, signalling a new chapter for the island’s connectivity, tourism and economic growth.

It boasts a 6,100 runway, significantly longer and twice as wide as the old Codrington Airport, enabling it to accommodate larger aircraft, including private jets and planes such as the Embraer E-170. Plus, with a full LED runway lighting system, the airport now allows for regular night landings. A 600-foot parking apron can also host multiple private jets, while a modern Fixed Base Operator (FBO) terminal will also cater to high-end travellers.

The opening of the new airport was commemorated with an official ribbon-cutting ceremony, attended by Fernandez, Governor General of Antigua and Barbuda Rodney Williams, Prime Minister Gaston Browne, and other government ministers, dignitaries and industry stakeholders. Currently, Liat 20, BMN Air (SVG), Calvin Air and private jets via the PLH FBO are listed for travel into the new airport.

Stayover tourism arrivals in Antigua and Barbuda are reported to have grown at a rate of +17% in the first eight months of 2024, during which the destination welcomed 229,225 visitors. This marks a +13% growth on arrivals over the same period in 2019, the best year for tourism arrivals.

The government of Antigua and Barbuda has further expansion plans for the Barbuda International Airport, which is located 10 minutes from Codrington village.

Source: Travelweek