โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
Interline Connections
120
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
Barbuda Codrington Airport (BBQ) served as the primary aviation link for the island of Barbuda for decades until its permanent closure in October 2024. The airport was a modest facility, featuring a small 800-square-foot terminal that handled inter-island flights, primarily connecting to V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) in Antigua. Following its closure, all flight operations shifted to the newly inaugurated Barbuda International Airport (BIA), located approximately 10 minutes away from Codrington village. This transition marks a significant upgrade for the island, providing a much larger and more modern facility to support growing tourism and private aviation.
The new Barbuda International Airport features a 1,248-square-foot terminal building, which is divided into separate, efficient areas for arrivals and departures. One of the most significant additions is a modern Fixed Base Operator (FBO) terminal, specifically designed to cater to high-end travelers and private jet owners. This facility offers premium lounges and streamlined processing, a major improvement over the very basic amenities of the old Codrington strip. While the old airport was known for its informal, 'island-time' atmosphere, the new international airport provides the infrastructure necessary for a more professional and comfortable travel experience.
Amenities at the new airport include upgraded security screening, baggage handling, and basic passenger services. While still compact compared to major Caribbean hubs, the facility is designed for future expansion and improved accessibility. For travelers, the shift means better reliability and the capacity to handle larger aircraft than the old 5,000-foot runway at Codrington allowed. The new runway is significantly longer and better equipped for all-weather operations, ensuring Barbuda remains well-connected even during the hurricane season. Taxis and local transportation remain available at the terminal to ferry passengers to Codrington and the island's famous pink-sand beaches.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting to Barbuda has undergone a major transformation with the opening of the new Barbuda International Airport in late 2024. Historically, almost all air traffic to the island was routed through V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) in Antigua, followed by a short 15-20 minute flight on small propeller aircraft. This remains the most common route, with carriers like SVG Air providing regular shuttle services between the two islands. When planning a connection through Antigua, travelers should allow at least 90 minutes to two hours for immigration, customs, and the transfer to the domestic departure area. It is also highly recommended to verify interline baggage agreements; often, baggage may not be checked through to Barbuda, requiring passengers to collect it in Antigua and re-check it for the short hop. Ground connections on Barbuda are straightforward but require some planning. The new airport is located about 10 minutes from Codrington, the island's main village. Taxis are generally available to meet scheduled flights, but for arrivals outside of peak times or via private charter, pre-arranging transport through your hotel or villa manager is strongly advised. Car rentals are also available on the island, and for the more adventurous, bikes are a popular way to get around the flat terrain of Barbuda. For those looking for alternative ways to reach the island, the Barbuda Express ferry remains a popular option, connecting St. Johnโs, Antigua, with Codrington. However, for those arriving by air, the seamless transition to the new international airport is now the preferred choice. Always keep a close eye on your flight status, as the small aircraft used for inter-island hops can be sensitive to weather conditions and weight restrictions. It is common
โฐ Minimum Connection Times
Domestic โ Domestic
45
minutes
Domestic โ International
75
minutes
International โ Domestic
75
minutes
International โ International
90
minutes
Interline Connections
115
minutes
๐ข Terminal Information
V. C. Bird International Airport (ANU) is the premier aviation gateway to the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda, located approximately 8 kilometers northeast of the capital, St. John's. The airport operates from a state-of-the-art single passenger terminal that opened in 2015, significantly enhancing its capacity and service levels. It serves as a major regional hub for the Eastern Caribbean, hosting a wide array of international carriers including American Airlines, British Airways, and Caribbean Airlines, alongside regional specialists like InterCaribbean Airways and the re-emerging LIAT 2020.
The terminal experience at ANU is defined by its modern design and comprehensive passenger amenities. The facility features 46 check-in counters, 15 self-service kiosks, and four jet bridges to ensure efficient passenger processing. Post-security, travelers have access to a variety of duty-free shops offering local crafts, spirits, and international luxury brands, as well as a mini food court with both local and international dining options. For those seeking premium comfort, the 'Executive Lounge' offers a quiet retreat with complimentary refreshments and high-speed Wi-Fi. The terminal is designed for easy navigation, with clear signage and accessible facilities for passengers with reduced mobility.
Operational excellence is a hallmark of the ANU terminal, which manages a high volume of traffic, especially during the peak winter tourist season and major cruise ship turnarounds. The airport provides essential services including ATMs, a post office, and 24-hour medical assistance. While there are no on-site exchange offices, banking services are readily available in the arrivals area. For visitors, the airport represents a professional and welcoming threshold to the Caribbean, offering immediate access to the vibrant culture of St. John's and the nation's 365 world-class beaches. Its efficient infrastructure and strategic location make it one of the most reliable and modern hubs in the Lesser Antilles.
๐ Connection Tips
Connecting at V. C. Bird International Airport (ANU) is generally a straightforward process due to its modern, single-terminal layout. For regional connections between Caribbean islands, a minimum connection time of 75 to 90 minutes is typically sufficient, assuming your luggage is checked through. However, for those transferring from international flights to regional carriers, you must clear immigration and customs, which can see increased wait times when large aircraft arrivals coincide with cruise ship schedules. In such cases, allowing 2.5 to 3 hours for your connection is highly recommended. The airport offers dedicated VIP lanes and fast-track options for those looking to expedite their transit.\n\nGround transportation from the Antigua terminal is well-organized, providing several options for reaching St. John's and the island's many resorts. While there is no direct public bus service from the airport, taxis are readily available outside the arrivals hall, with the trip to the city center taking approximately 15-20 minutes. Many major resorts provide complimentary shuttle services for their guests, which should be confirmed at the time of booking. For those seeking independence, several car rental agencies operate on-site, though driving is on the left side of the road. Travelers should be aware that the local currency is the Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD), though US Dollars are widely accepted. Always confirm your flight status 24 hours in advance via your airline's app, as regional schedules can occasionally be impacted by seasonal tropical weather. For international departures, it is advised to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your scheduled flight time.
โ Back to Codrington Airport