ST. JOHN’S, Antigua – Antigua and Barbuda tourism officials have welcomed the opening of the US$14 million Barbuda International Airport (BIA) saying its signals the start of a new chapter for Barbuda’s tourism and economic growth.
“This new Barbuda International Airport is a shining testament to the visionary leadership of our government”, said Tourism, Civil Aviation and Transportation Minister, Charles Fernandez, adding “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”.
The airport was officially opened on Thursday and the authorities say it now allows for direct connections to global destinations and offers an enhanced travel experience for visitors and residents into the island.
The BIA has a 6,100-foot runway, significantly longer than the1,640 feet runway at the Barbuda Codrington Airport, enabling it to accommodate larger aircraft, including private jets and planes such as the Embraer E-170.
It is equipped with a full LED runway lighting system allowing for regular night landings with a 600-foot parking apron can can host multiple private jets, enhancing Barbuda’s appeal as a luxury destination.
Additionally, a modern Fixed Base Operator (FBO) terminal will cater to high-end travellers seeking Barbuda’s beaches, serenity, nature and exclusive experiences.
“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 the chief executive officer of the Antigua and Barbuda Tourism Authority, Colin C. James.
Official figures released here show that stay-over tourism air arrivals in Antigua and Barbuda increased at a rate of 17 per cent in the first eight months of this year with the country welcoming 229,225 visitors.
In addition, Fernandez said 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”.