V.C. Bird International Airport
Antigua's only airport, 8 km from St. John's
V.C. Bird International Airport
<p>V.C. Bird International Airport (airport code <strong>ANU</strong>) is the main gateway to Antigua and Barbuda and the only international airport in the country. It sits at Coolidge on the northeast side of Antigua, about 8 km (5 miles) from the capital, <a href="/destinations/st-johns">St. John's</a>, so most visitors are on a beach within half an hour of clearing immigration. If you are coming to explore Antigua's famous 365 beaches, this is almost certainly where your trip begins.</p><p>The airport is named after Sir Vere Cornwall Bird (1909 to 1999), the first Prime Minister of Antigua and Barbuda and a central figure in the country's path to independence in 1981. It was known as Coolidge Airport in its earlier years, a name that nods to its World War II origins as a US military airfield, before being renamed in his honour.</p><p>The current terminal opened in 2015, replacing the cramped older building. It added air-conditioned halls, jet bridges, faster passenger processing and proper retail and dining space. The airport has long been the hub and headquarters of LIAT (Leeward Islands Air Transport), the regional carrier whose turboprops historically stitched the eastern Caribbean together, so short connections to neighbouring islands run regularly from ANU.</p><p>From the terminal, taxis are the dominant way into town and to the resort areas. Fares are government-set, zone-based flat rates: typical runs head to <a href="/destinations/dickenson-bay">Dickenson Bay</a> in the northwest, <a href="/destinations/jolly-harbour">Jolly Harbour</a> on the west coast, and <a href="/destinations/english-harbour">English Harbour</a> in the south near historic <a href="/attractions/nelsons-dockyard">Nelson's Dockyard</a>. Car rental is available too, though remember that Antigua drives on the left, UK style, and a local temporary driving permit is required.</p><p>Heading to the sister island of <a href="/destinations/barbuda">Barbuda</a>? You can fly the short hop from ANU on a small aircraft, or take the passenger ferry from St. John's. Either way, V.C. Bird International is the pivot point for getting around the two-island nation.</p>
Complete your arrival form
Travelers to Antigua and Barbuda should complete the online immigration and customs declaration before arrival. It is quick and saves time at the airport. Read our entry requirements and arrival guides.
Frequently asked questions
How far is V.C. Bird International Airport from St. John's?
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The airport sits at Coolidge on the northeast of Antigua, roughly 8 km (about 5 miles) from the capital, St. John's. By taxi it is usually a 15 to 20 minute drive, depending on traffic around town. Most resorts and beaches on the island are within about 30 to 45 minutes of the terminal.
Which airlines fly to Antigua (ANU)?
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V.C. Bird International handles a mix of international and regional carriers. Long-haul and seasonal service typically comes from North American and UK airlines such as American Airlines, JetBlue, Delta, United, Air Canada, British Airways and Virgin Atlantic, while regional flights connect Antigua with neighbouring Caribbean islands. The airport has long been a hub for the regional carrier LIAT. Always check current schedules, as routes and seasonal frequencies change.
Is there a bus from the airport into town?
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There is no reliable public bus that serves the terminal directly. Antigua's minibuses run mainly between St. John's and the villages, not from the airport door, so in practice almost everyone uses a taxi or a pre-arranged transfer. If you are on a tight budget you can walk out to the main road and try to flag a minibus, but it is not dependable, especially with luggage.
How much is a taxi from the airport to Dickenson Bay or English Harbour?
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Taxi fares in Antigua are government-set zone rates quoted in US dollars, not metered. As a rough guide, the airport to the St. John's area and nearby Dickenson Bay is one of the shorter runs, while English Harbour and the far south coast cost noticeably more as it is across the island. Rates are usually per trip rather than per person for a small group. Always confirm the exact zone fare and the currency with the driver before you set off.
Can I rent a car at the airport, and do I need a special permit?
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Yes, several car-rental companies have desks at or near the terminal. To drive in Antigua you must buy a local temporary driving permit, which the rental company can arrange at the desk for a small fee on top of the rental. Remember that Antigua drives on the left, UK style, and many roads are narrow with unmarked junctions, so take it slowly while you adjust.
Is there free wifi, and are there ATMs and currency exchange?
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The modern terminal offers free wifi for passengers, plus ATMs and a bank or bureau where you can change money. The local currency is the East Caribbean dollar (EC$), pegged at roughly EC$2.70 to US$1, but US dollars are widely accepted across the island. ATMs typically dispense EC$, and you will often get change in EC$ even when you pay in US dollars.
Is there duty-free shopping and food at the airport?
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Yes. Since the new terminal opened in 2015 there are duty-free shops in the departures area selling spirits, perfume, local rum and souvenirs, along with cafes and bars for a meal or drink before your flight. Selection is modest compared with a big hub, so if you want something specific it is wise not to leave all your shopping to the airport.
How do I get to Barbuda from the airport?
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Barbuda is reached either by a short flight on a small aircraft from V.C. Bird International, or by the passenger ferry that runs from St. John's harbour. The flight is quick but uses light planes with limited seats and luggage, so book ahead. If you prefer the ferry, you will need to transfer from the airport into St. John's first; the crossing takes around 90 minutes and the sea can be choppy.