Virgin Gorda Airport

Virgin Gorda airport: the British Virgin Islands gateway

Introduction

In the Caribbean, just an airplane hop away from Puerto Rico and the U.S. Virgin Islands, is this last paradise: The British Virgin Islands (mind you, these islands have NOTHING to...). An idyllic archipelago that remains free of crowds despite being located just north of Puerto Rico, the British Virgin Islands are defined by crystal-clear waters and pristine beaches. At the heart of this paradise is Virgin Gorda - an undeniable jewel among these alluring islands renowned for its striking natural beauty and relaxed pace. The Virgin Gorda Airport (IATA: VIJ, ICAO: TUPW) is the only gateway to this jewel of an island, and it plays a very important role in transporting many visitors to all that this fantastic tropical place has to offer.

Airlines and Destinations

Virgin Gorda Airport is a small airport, but it has the most connected flights. The airport is used by a small number of airlines, which include Tradewind Aviation and Cape Air, which offer service to major connecting points such as San Juan (SJU) in Puerto Rico and St. Thomas (STT), U.S. Virgin Islands, non-stop. Virgin Gorda is quick and easy to get to, with these non-stop routes from the region's major gateways.

Passenger count and flights per day

Though the airport may not match up to larger international airports in terms of traffic, it remains an essential point for travel by and from Virgin Gorda. Over the past decade, it has consistently processed about 15,000 passengers a year. Flights: The number of flights - arrivals and departures combined - have remained steady, managing up to about 1,000 aircraft movements per year.

How to Get Here

Virgin Gorda Airport is located in easy-to-reach surroundings and has many different types of transport links available. The prevalent one being to fly into the nearby island of Tortola at Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (EIS), and from there take a 15-55 minute small commercial or charter flight to Virgin Gorda; in between, flyers can also find lightweight craft airfare serving incoming tourists, often times arriving by yachts, their private charters moored just offshore on anchor 'navigational' buoys provided. Alternatively, guests can arrive by taking a 20-minute boat ferry or private water taxi transfer from Tortola.

Parking

Virgin Gorda Airport has a small lot for visitors arriving by private vehicle, so parking is not too difficult. Located close to the terminal, this parking lot offers easy accessibility for travelers who need their cars on departure or arrival.

Transportation Prices

You will also need to pay for transportation to and from Virgin Gorda Airport, so here you can see the pricing of different travel operators. A flight from San Juan to Virgin Gorda might run you anywhere between $150 and $900 for a single person, whereas ferry rides out of Tortola typically start at around the upper teens range. Private water taxi transfers are pricier still and can cost as much as $50 or more per person.

Terminal Layout

Virgin Gorda Airport itself is small and has just one terminal building to handle all the needs of those going through, including arrival/departure facilities. The terminal has a basic departure lounge, baggage claim area, and a number of administrative offices. Designed to facilitate passengers, even though the airport is relatively small in size.

Navigate the Airport

The layout of Virgin Gorda Airport is pretty small, making it easy to get around with the help of the staff there. Once passengers arrive, they will navigate the baggage claim area and customs/immigration desks, which are situated just inside the terminal. Outgoing passengers may proceed through the security check to their gate and wait for a flight.

Getting Between Terminals

Virgin Gorda Airport Virgin Gorda Air Terminal Map: there is no terminal building (only one). Everything happens within the same small terminal building, meaning that your time here should be streamlined and pain-free.

Services and Amenities

Virgin Gorda Airport is small but certainly meets all the needs you expect an airport to offer. Typical facilities that are present include a small café, duty-free shop, and restrooms. Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport to keep you connected while waiting for a flight.

Restaurants and Shops

The closest dining and retail options to Virgin Gorda Airport can be found at Marina Village at Oil Nut Bay, which is nearby and features the world-renowned Nova Restaurant with delicious Caribbean fare. If you just want a simple meal and friendly faces, there are some great family-run food places close by.

Security and Customs

Passengers arriving at Virgin Gorda Airport must clear customs and immigration before proceeding to their final destination. The airport is relatively simple to pass through security and customs, with helpful staff on hand assisting travelers along the way. All visitors will need to provide their passports and appropriate travel documents.

Accessibility

Offering travelers options for travel arrangements, Virgin Gorda Airport aims to provide accessibility from anywhere you are. The terminal building has ramp access, providing designated car park spaces and disabled toilets for passengers with restricted mobility. Exceptional assistance is provided at these facilities, and trained support staff are available to assist anyone who may need that extra bit of help along their journey.

Travel Tips

Below are some travel tips if you're planning on heading to Virgin Gorda. For one, make sure you book your flights way in advance - the airport has a lot lower capacity than major international airports (not to mention expensive and less frequent on high season). Remember also to follow any customs and immigration requirements at the airport. Lastly, get an idea of the transportation available as well and how much money you will save with each option vs. travel time getting to this luxurious Caribbean destination!