Antigua And Barbuda
Major international airlines connect Antigua with various global hubs. These include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines from the United States (flying from cities like Miami, New York, Atlanta, Charlotte). British Airways and Virgin Atlantic provide direct service from the United Kingdom (London Gatwick). Air Canada and WestJet offer flights from major Canadian cities (Toronto, Montreal). These airlines provide regular, scheduled services throughout the year.
The main carrier for inter-island flights between Antigua and Barbuda is SVG Air. These flights use small propeller planes. The flight duration is approximately 15-20 minutes, offering scenic views of both islands. These flights are generally reliable but can be influenced by weather conditions or passenger demand.
Flight frequency to V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) in Antigua grows during the high season (mid-December to mid-May). More airlines may offer routes.
Prices for international flights are highest during peak season, especially around major holidays like Christmas, New Year, and Easter. Dollar Flight Club and Skyscanner are good resources.
It is wise to book these local flights in advance, notably during peak travel times. SVG Air's schedule should be checked directly for current timings.
The taxi ride to St. John's ferry terminal (for the Barbuda Express ferry) takes approximately 15-20 minutes, depending on traffic. Agree on the fare with the driver before beginning your journey.
Drivers will transport passengers directly to their accommodations in Codrington or other parts of the island. It is often recommended to arrange your taxi transfer with your accommodation provider in advance. This secures a smooth arrival.
AirHelp can assist if your flights are delayed or canceled, potentially helping with compensation.
Barbuda’s island nature means land transportation options are limited to internal travel. No land borders exist, and rail services are not present.
Car rental options in Barbuda are extremely limited. A few local operators might offer 4x4 vehicles, which are strongly recommended, if available at all. Standard rental cars are unsuitable for Barbuda's road conditions.
Driving is on the left-hand side of the road, as in the UK. While the main roads in Codrington village are paved, most roads outside the village are unpaved, sandy, and can be very rough. Potholes are common.
Sea travel presents another way to Barbuda from Antigua, giving a different perspective of the islands. The main sea link to Barbuda is the Barbuda Express ferry service. This catamaran operates from St. John's, Antigua (located near the cruise terminal at Heritage Quay) to Barbuda’s River Dock, which is close to Codrington village.
A departure tax usually comes in the price of most international airline tickets when leaving V.C. Bird International Airport (ANU) in Antigua. If departing from Barbuda Codrington Airport (BBQ) on a local SVG Air flight back to Antigua, confirm with SVG Air if a separate local departure fee comes.
Barbuda Codrington Airport (BBQ) has very minimal facilities. Expect a small waiting area but no shops, restaurants, or extensive services. Similar to BBQ, facilities at the ferry dock are minimal.
Check-in at BBQ is quick due to minimal facilities, making your local departure efficient.
ANU offers check-in counters, security screening, duty-free shops, various food vendors, and airline lounges for departing travelers.
You can purchase last-minute souvenirs at ANU, rounding out your travel experience before flying home.
Confirm all your departure times for both the inter-island leg and the international flight at least 24-48 hours in advance. Schedules can sometimes change.
