V.C. Bird International Airport
Saint George
V.C. Bird International Airport, located near St. John's on Antigua island, is the primary international airport of Antigua and Barbuda and the largest in the country. Originally built in 1941 as Coolidge Airfield by the United States Army Air Forces and later renamed Coolidge Air Force Base, it transitioned to civil aviation after its closure in 1949. The airport was renamed in 1985 in honor of Sir Vere Cornwall Bird, Antigua and Barbuda's first prime minister. In 2015, Terminal A was inaugurated, featuring modern facilities including jet bridges, advanced security, multiple lounges, retail stores, and dining options, making it one of the most modern airports in the Caribbean region. Serving as a major hub for the Leeward Islands, it connects Antigua with more than fifty destinations across four continents. The airport operates 24/7 and is served by over seventeen airlines. Ground transportation includes taxis and rental cars, though there is no public bus service. The airport also houses the Antigua Outstation of the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority and displays a mural by Heather Doram, the designer of Antigua and Barbuda's national costume. Ongoing renovations are transforming the old terminal into Terminal B, aimed at supporting cruise home-porting operations.
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Tip: For the best experience, visit during daylight hours to appreciate the airport's modern architecture and amenities. Pre-booking flights is recommended due to the airport's role as a regional hub connecting multiple destinations. While taxis and rental cars are available, plan ground transportation in advance as there is no public bus service. Check the airport's official website for updates on terminal renovations and services.
Interesting facts
- •The airport was originally a United States Army Air Forces base named Coolidge Airfield.
- •Terminal A, opened in 2015, was named by the Caribbean Community as the region's most modern airport.
- •The airport connects Antigua to more than fifty destinations across four continents.
- •It operates 24 hours a day and is serviced by over seventeen airlines.
- •The airport features a mural by Heather Doram, the designer of Antigua and Barbuda's national costume.
History
The airport was originally established in 1941 as Coolidge Airfield by the United States Army Air Forces and named after Capt.
Hamilton Coolidge.
It functioned as a military base until 1949 when it was closed and later converted to civil use.
In 1985, it was renamed V.C.
Bird International Airport to honor the first prime minister of Antigua and Barbuda, Sir Vere Cornwall Bird.
Significant upgrades began in 2005, culminating in the opening of a new, modern Terminal A in 2015.
The old terminal is currently being renovated into Terminal B to support cruise operations as of 2026.
Place Guide
Terminal A2015
The main passenger terminal opened in 2015, featuring four jet bridges, 46 check-in counters, 15 self-check-in kiosks, five baggage carousels, VIP lounges, retail stores, restaurants, and modern security facilities.
Terminal B (Old Terminal)
Originally the main terminal before 2015, now under renovation to serve cruise home-porting operations and ground transportation hub functions.
Antigua Outstation of the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority
An administrative facility located on airport property overseeing civil aviation regulations in the Eastern Caribbean region.
Heather Doram Mural
A mural by Heather Doram, the designer of Antigua and Barbuda's national costume, displayed within the airport.
Contact
Phone: (268) 484-2300
