Grantley Adams International Airport Overview

Grantley Adams International Airport (IATA: BGI, ICAO: TBPB) is the primary international gateway to Barbados, located in Seawell, Christ Church. It is a central hub for travellers to and from the Eastern Caribbean, North America, and Europe. Named after the first Premier of Barbados, the airport is a vital tourism and trade hub that offers modern facilities for commercial and general aviation traffic.

General Information – Barbados Airport Code

  • Location: Seawell, Christ Church, Barbados
  • Country: Barbados
  • IATA Code: BGI
  • ICAO Code: TBPB
  • Elevation: 170 feet (52 metres)
  • Coordinates: 13°04′30″N 059°29′15″W
  • Airport Type: Public, International
  • Flights: Scheduled international and regional services
  • Timezone: UTC−4 (Atlantic Standard Time)
  • Distance from City: Approx. 16 km (10 miles) southeast of Bridgetown
  • Website: www.gaia.bb
  • Ground Services: Full commercial, cargo, and general aviation handling
  • Operator: Grantley Adams International Airport Inc.

Airport Details – Barbados Airport Code

  • Runways: 1
  • Runway Designation and Length:
    • 09/27: 3,368 metres (11,053 feet) – Asphalt
  • Runway Surface: Asphalt
  • Runway Strengths: Capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft, including B747 and A350
  • Fire Services: ICAO Category 9
  • Tower Frequency: Available
  • Ground Frequency: Available
  • Navigation Assistance: ILS, VOR/DME, RNAV, NDB, GPS
  • Customs: Available 24/7
  • Aircraft Types: Up to Code E aircraft
  • Terminals: One main terminal with separate arrival and departure halls
  • Cargo: Cargo terminal with bonded warehouse and freight services
  • Fuel: JET A-1 and AVGAS available
  • FBOs: Executive Air Services Ltd.
  • Equipment: Full GSE, hangar, and maintenance support
  • Ground Services: Passenger, cargo, VIP, and crew handling

Flight Information

  • Permit Time: Typically 24–48 hours for non-scheduled or charter international flights
  • Permission Required: Yes, for private and charter flights
  • Slots: Not required but recommended for peak season
  • Backup Airports:
    • UVF: Hewanorra International Airport, Saint Lucia
    • ANU: V.C. Bird International Airport, Antigua

Contact Information

Visitor Information

  • Immigration Rules: Valid passport required; visa exemptions apply for many countries
  • Crew Requirements: Passport, licenses, crew ID; visa-free for most nationalities for short stays
  • Transport: Taxis, rental cars, hotel shuttles; no public rail or metro service
  • Accommodation:
    • Nearby: Courtyard by Marriott, Accra Beach Hotel, South Gap Hotel
    • Luxury: Sandy Lane, Fairmont Royal Pavilion, O2 Beach Club
  • Currency: Barbadian Dollar (BBD); USD widely accepted

Nearby Attractions

Bridgetown

The capital city offers historical landmarks, local markets, and colonial-era architecture.

Carlisle Bay

A beautiful bay known for white sandy beaches, calm waters, and snorkelling with shipwrecks.

St. Lawrence Gap

A lively area with restaurants, nightclubs, and beachfront bars just minutes from the airport.

Harrison’s Cave

An underground limestone cavern with stunning formations and tram tours.

Barbados Wildlife Reserve

Home to green monkeys, tortoises, peacocks, and other Caribbean wildlife.

Extra Tips

  • Getting Around: Taxis and rental cars are the most convenient; roads are well-marked
  • Travel: Peak season runs from December to April—book early for better rates and availability
  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Winter (Dec–Apr): Dry season and peak tourist season
    • Summer (Jun–Aug): Fewer crowds, lively festivals like Crop Over
  • Tips:
    • FBO services should be arranged in advance for GA operations
    • Fuel and customs are available around the clock—coordinate with handlers
    • Barbados has strict entry and exit documentation checks—carry all required paperwork
    • Local SIM cards and mobile services are available in the arrivals area

Grantley Adams International Airport is a modern Caribbean hub offering warm hospitality, efficient services, and seamless access to Barbados’s beauty. For flight coordination or service requests, contact the airport or your selected FBO directly.