New Multimillion Dollar Caribbean Airport

1:45 pm Caribbean Traveller 0 Comments

On Thursday 20th August, Antigua officially opened its new V.C. Bird International Airport to replace the older airport of the same name.

The new V.C. Bird International Airport in Antigua & Barbuda

LIAT had the honour of the very first flight on Thursday and American Airlines was scheduled to have the first international flight on Monday 24th, however, those plans were delayed as a precaution to the threat of tropical storm Danny and arrangements have tentatively been made for tomorrow. 

The facility, which cost around $100 million to construct, is positioned to improve Antigua's position as one of the major regional trade hubs and many are hoping that the modernized airport would translate to a boost in visitors. 

View of the new V.C. Bird Airport in Antigua from the inside

The new V.C. Bird Airport is reportedly equipped with state-of-the-art processing facilities that makes it one of the most advanced airports in the Caribbean with the ability to handle 1,800 passengers at a time. The first class lounge is set to have a beautiful view of Maiden Island and Jumby Bay; two small islands under the state of Antigua. In addition, the airport is providing much improved retail space and food options. This is a vast improvement from the much smaller airport currently in use.

The older V.C. Bird International Airport

Caribbean travellers can now begin and end their trip to Antigua in a more efficient and comfortable setting.

It has been suggested that with further development of the sea port, the island may be able venture more heavily into cruise tourism where visitors would be able to fly into Antigua to begin their cruise or vice versa. 

This activity would bring welcomed attention to Antigua's hotel and hospitality industry.