Antigua and Barbuda has taken a “decisive step” on the Caribbean tourism chessboard with the opening of the new Barbuda International Airport on October 3.
This strategic development, which includes a state-of-the-art FBO – one of only a few in the region – positions the twin-island country as a new major player in attracting luxury travelers and private jet customers.
The first-class facility features an 1,800-meter LED-lit runway and modern amenities, allowing direct connections to multiple countries around the world. Carriers such as Liat 20, BMN Air And Calvin Sky are already ready to establish these connections with Barbuda.
In addition, the $14 million airport is equipped to handle larger aircraft, and private jets will be served by a new Fixed Base Operator (FBO) – a facility that will provide fueling, maintenance, hangar storage and passenger amenities such as private lounges.
An FBO typically offers a more exclusive level of service, catering to the comfort and specific needs of luxury travelers – an extremely attractive feature for international celebrities who often use private jets as their preferred mode of transportation.
This is especially notable considering that 2024 travel trends have revealed that wherever celebrities like Taylor Swift or famous athletes go, their fans follow.
“An international airport is a game changer for Barbuda as we aim to attract luxury travelers and private jet owners from all over the world to Barbuda and experience the island’s beauty, pink sand beaches, eco experiences, wellness attributes and culture to all our guests. visitors,” said Colin C. James, CEO of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority.
In addition, the full LED runway lighting system means that Barbuda can now host regular night landings, further expanding the island’s ability to attract new tourists.
“We have taken bold steps to modernize this island and ensure that air links are second to none in this region so that Barbuda can also benefit from the remarkable growth in tourism in our country that we have seen this year,” said the country’s Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation and Transport, the Hon. Charles Fernandez.
The opening of this new international transport hub comes at a crucial time for tourism in Antigua and Barbuda. From January to August 2024, the destination received 229,225 overnight visitors – an increase of 17 percent compared to the same period last year, and 13% more than in 2019, when the country had its best tourism year ever.
More good news. The government also announced that the country is expected to receive a record number of cruise ships, further boosting tourism numbers.
“For the first time ever, Barbuda will see 23 luxury cruise ships bringing 5,039 cruise passengers to this beautiful island for the upcoming winter cruise season,” and also confirmed their plans to further expand the airport (BIA).
“This new Barbuda International Airport is a shining testament to our government’s visionary leadership,” Fernandez concluded.
