Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport is the main gateway to the beautiful Caribbean island of Anguilla.

Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport is the main gateway to the beautiful Caribbean island of Anguilla.

 

The Valley is the national capital of Anguilla, a British territory in the eastern Caribbean Leeward Islands of the Lesser Antilles, and a favorite Caribbean spot for general aviation operators. GA/BA operations to the island during the peak season months of December through March can cause issues such as limited parking, hotels and fuel.

Here is what you should know when operating to Anguilla:

1. Main Airport

Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport

[IATA: AXA, ICAO: TQPF]

Clayton J. Lloyd International Airport (TQPF) is Anguilla’s sole airport of entry and it is located about one mile south from The Valley’s city center. Serving as the nation’s primary gateway, TQPF airport hours are from 1200-2000Z and Air Control Tower hours are from 0645-2200L, with no overtime. Only certain private jets of specific sizes may land at TQPF. Contact your handler for further details.

Alternative Airports

Alternative airport options include Princess Juliana International Airport (TNCM) in St. Maarten and Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (TJSJ) in Puerto Rico, which can serve as gateway airports en route to The Valley.  From St. Maarten, it is just an eight-minute flight to Anguilla, while San Juan is a 50-minute flight to Anguilla.

Parking

Parking spots are limited and usually fill up quickly. While peak season parking may be requested earlier, it will not be confirmed until a few weeks prior to arrival.

Slots

Slots are not required.

PPRs

PPR for aircraft registered in the United Kingdom is not required.

2. Handling

Ground handling support services are mandatory in Anguilla and range from FBOs to handlers working out of small terminal facilities with potential ground support equipment limitations.

3. Fuel

Fuel runs out from time to time; however, this is pre-notified via NOTAM. It is recommended to have enough fuel to make it to an alternative uplift location. Secure ground handling and fuel requirements within a minimum of 48 hours prior to arrival. While it depends on the demand, expect minimal delays from the fueler from December to March.

4. Ground Transportation

There are no buses, trains or other on-island public transportation on Anguilla. For convenience purposes, vehicle services to transport guests comfortably from the airport to accommodations are recommended. Rental car or taxi services can be arranged to be ready at the airport or delivered to your accommodation during your stay. Car or van services to collect and chauffeur you around the island during your stay can also be scheduled.

NOTE:

There is a US $20 to $28 departure tax (depending on transportation method) paid at the point of exit upon leaving Anguilla for your next destination. The departure tax for day trips where you are returning to Anguilla is typically around US $5 to $10.  All taxes and fees are subject to change without notice.

5. Permits

No overflight permits are required for Anguilla. Flight plans should be filed within two hours of origin departure. During peak season (December to March), permit requests should be sent as soon as possible to avoid further delays.

Permit Documentation

Charter operators may need to provide documents such as Air Operator Certificate, worldwide insurance, airworthiness certificate, registration certificate, noise certificate and operational specs.

6. Customs & Visas

A passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, as well as return or onward tickets, are required for all visitors to Anguilla. Be sure to bring your passport with you on any day trips to neighboring islands.

For Anguilla visa information, check here. Anguilla does not require a CARICOM APIS filing. CIQ pre-clearance is not available in Anguilla and customs is cleared within the main terminal.

7. In-flight Catering

In-flight caterers are available, however, there are standard operating procedures to source catering directly from hotels or restaurants.

8. Hotels

Hotel accommodations in Anguilla can book up relatively quickly and range from around US $300 to $2500 per night. Resorts in Anguilla hold stern cancellation policies, especially during peak season.

9. Security

Visitors are warned to be extremely careful when driving, riding a vehicle, or crossing roads on foot as roads vary from good to bad in condition. Anguilla is relatively safe for travelers and visitors should proceed with normal precautions when abroad.

10. Climate Conditions

Anguilla has a year-round tropical climate, with temperatures ranging from the mid 70°F (21°C) to mid 80°F (26°C) throughout all seasons. December through March bring in a slightly cooler period and are the driest months of the year. Wearing tropical clothing, such as breathable linen and sun hats, is advised.

Rainfall the rest of the year is quite irregular, although it rarely reaches high values. Normally, the moderate rainfall period is from August to November during peak hurricane season.

11. Other Factors

  • British English is the island’s official language; however, Anguillan Creole is also commonly spoken.
  • During high tourist season, travelers will find that Anguilla’s business hours are mostly convenient on the weekdays, while most places close early on the weekends.
  • Commercial businesses are generally open Monday through Friday from 0800 to 1700L and on Saturday from 0800 to 1200L.
  • For current vaccination recommendations, visit the CDC Traveler View.
  • Anguilla does not require that your pet be identified with a pet microchip, but it is recommended that you microchip your pet and register your contact information prior to traveling as a means of identification, should your pet get lost or separated from you. For further info, click here.
NOTE:

The Valley

Time Zone:

 

UTC -4.0 (Standard Time)

DST not observed

 

Conclusion

Peak travel conditions for Anguilla occur over New Year’s, Christmas and Spring Break. Business aviation traffic is higher than normal during peak periods when the airport often reaches high saturation levels. Concerns such as limited parking and fuel can create operational risks.

Jetex can relieve the stress and coordinate all fuel, ground handling and flight planning services to ensure that you have a safe and successful trip.

For transportation assistance and trip planning services, plan ahead and contact Jetex at info@jetex.com or call +1 305 306 4000.