Every year, Barbados sees more than 2.4 million passengers traveling to and from the island.
Barbados is a very popular destination for business aviation travelers during the high season months of December through February. Every year, however, Barbados sees more than 2.4 million passengers traveling to and from the island, establishing its reputation as an international travel destination and the island of choice in the Caribbean. In fact, visitor spend on the island increased by 7% to US $1.12 billion in 2018.
If you plan to operate to Barbados, here is what you should know:
1. Main Airport
Grantley Adams International Airport
[IATA: BGI, ICAO: TBPB]
Grantley Adams International Airport (TBPB) is the only designated port of entry for GA/BA operators to and from Barbados. Also known as Bridgetown Airport due to its close proximity to the capital, TBPB is one of the busiest airports in the region. Situated in Seawell, Christ Church, TBPB serves as one of the major gateways to the Eastern Caribbean. TBPB airport hours operate 24/7, alongside the Air Control Tower and Customs and Immigration. Peak operations are between 1100-1400L and 1800-2100L. TBPB is a full-service airport with reasonable jet fuel prices and quick turnaround.
Alternative Airports
Alternative airport options include Hewanorra International Airport (TLPL) in Saint Lucia and Argyle International Airport (TVSA) in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, which can serve as gateway airports en route to Barbados. From St. Lucia and St. Vincent & Grenadines, it is a 40- to 45-minute flight to Barbados. However, runways at TBPB can accommodate larger business jets that alternative regional airports may not be able to hold.
Parking
While aircraft parking is plenty, during the high season it’s best to confirm parking in advance.
Slots
Slots are not required; however, Barbados also serves as a well-positioned tech stop location where aircraft fueling turnaround times are approximately 45 minutes. For peak season operations, additional lead time is recommended to organize ground handling and aircraft parking.
PPRs
PPRs are not required at any of these locations when making international tech stops only.
2. Handling
Turnaround time at each location ranges from 30 to 60 minutes, so it’s best to arrange ground handling in advance. If you need to turn your aircraft very quickly, notify your ground handler ASAP.
Your local ground handler will notify appropriate authorities of your arrival and submit the required information. Take note that a CARICOM APIS filing is required.
3. Fuel
It is recommended that ground handling and fuel requirements are secured a minimum of 48 hours prior to arrival. During high season, expect slight delays in jet fuel delivery. An aircraft information form must be filled out to arrange ground handling in Barbados.
Contact Jetex at itp@jetex.com for fuel release requests. Fueling is available 24 hours, but advance notification is needed between 2230 and 0630 local time and overtime charges apply.
4. Ground Transportation
Destinations within the island are all minutes away by car or public transport from the airport. Bus and taxi options are available from TBPB; however; to truly enjoy your experience in Barbados, the best way to get around is through car service.
With local partners, vehicle services to transport guests safely to and from the airport in maximum comfort can be coordinated.
5. Permits
Landing permits are not necessary for charter flight operations if the aircraft is under ICAO Category B in size. If Category B or larger, a landing permit is required. Emergency medical flights also require landing permits which may be expedited. Overflight permits are not required when traveling through Barbados airspace.
Permit Documentation
Documents, other than passports and visas (when applicable), are not always requested but may include certificates of airworthiness and registration, aircraft logbook, and pilot licenses and medical certificates. Temporary airman certificates are not accepted.
Permit Revisions
Permit revisions are required for changes in Zulu date, origin of flight or aircraft registration. Notification is only necessary for changes to crew and passengers. Permit revisions may be accomplished within a short time during normal Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) hours of 0800-1600L Monday through Friday.
6. Customs & Visas
A CARICOM APIS filing and customs clearance are required for both inbound and outbound flights and must be filed at least 30 minutes pre-departure. Operators who have not completed CARICOM APIS are subject to fines and may be denied entry to Barbados.
Customs clearance and a valid passport are required for crew and passengers. For current visa nationality requirements, check here.
Information required for APIS includes full names of passengers and crew, passport numbers and expiration dates, gender, nationality, and place of birth. Operators who have not completed CARICOM APIS are subject to fines and may be denied entry to Barbados.
Your CARICOM APIS filing will be checked against a no-fly list and customs will confirm that APIS has been completed. Learn more about CARICOM here.
CIQ is cleared within the main terminal, unless an FBO with CIQ facilities is available. Clearance times are normally under 15-20 minutes. For return to the U.S., CIQ pre-clearance is not available in Barbados.
7. In-Flight Catering
In-flight caterers are available, as well as direct catering from a local hotel or restaurant. Contact your handler a minimum of 24 hours in advance for catering requests.
8. Hotels
Crew accommodation options routinely sell out during peak season. This is particularly true for short notice operations. Resort accommodations are about US $300-900/night with strict cancellation policies, especially during high season.
When arranging high season crew accommodations, it’s important to book as soon as possible and have a contingency plan in place.
9. Security
Although Barbados is generally safer than its Caribbean neighbors, visitors should be cautious of their surroundings, especially at night. However, police are heavily stationed around residential and tourist areas in Barbados.
10. Climate Conditions
The temperature in Barbados does not vary much throughout the year, with an average temperature range of 72°F (22°C) to 88°F (31°C). With a tropical climate, Barbados is relatively warm in the summer months and cooler and more pleasant from December through March. Bring clothing suitable for tropical weather, such as lightweight sportswear and casual suits for business.
Along the coast, annual rainfall amounts to 47-55 inches, while it’s slightly more abundant in the inland areas. Hurricane season from June to November can also affect the island with tropical storm surge and flooding.
11. Other Factors
- Cabotage is not a major issue in Barbados, and there are currently no NOTAMs or TFRs.
- English is the official language of the nation, but the Bajan dialect is also spoken.
- Business hours typically run from 0800-1600L, Monday-Friday, with Wi-Fi availability in hotels and cafes across the island.
- For vaccination recommendations to Barbados, check here.
- Traveling with your pet to Barbados is an easy process. For current vaccination and microchip requirements, check here.
- Entering Barbados with firearms or ammunition without prior express consent from the Barbados government is not permitted.
- Be aware that arriving aircraft must have cabin sprayed at top of descent with an approved insecticide or fines may apply.
| NOTE:
Christ Church Time Zone: |
UTC -4.0 (Standard Time) DST not observed |
Conclusion
It’s important to plan ahead for parking, fuel and ground handling requirements prior to operating to Barbados, especially during high season when cancellation policies are stricter and hotel rates are higher.
Jetex can book and coordinate all fuel, ground handling and flight planning services for you to make sure that you have an enjoyable and safe trip. For transportation assistance and trip planning services, contact Jetex at info@jetex.com or call +1 305 306 4000.
