Codrington Airport Overview

Codrington Airport (IATA: BBQ, ICAO: TAPH) was a public airport serving the town of Codrington on the island of Barbuda, part of the twin-island nation of Antigua and Barbuda. Located approximately 1.3 km (a 5-minute drive) from the town centre, it features a short runway suitable for small aircraft operations. Managed by the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA), the airport primarily supported domestic and regional charter flights.

Following significant damage from Hurricane Irma in 2017, the airport underwent repairs and resumed operations. However, it was permanently closed on 2 October 2024 and replaced by the newly constructed Barbuda (Burton-Nibbs) International Airport, which commenced operations on 3 October 2024.

General Information

  • Location: Codrington, Barbuda
  • Country: Antigua and Barbuda
  • IATA Code: BBQ
  • ICAO Code: TAPH
  • Elevation: 15 feet (5 metres)
  • Coordinates: 17°38′09″N 61°49′37″W
  • Airport Type: Public (Closed)
  • Flights: Previously supported domestic and regional charters
  • Timezone: UTC−4 (Atlantic Standard Time, no daylight saving)
  • Distance from City: Approximately 1.3 km from Codrington town centre (5-minute drive)
  • Website: Not applicable
  • Ground Services: Managed by Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA)
  • Operator: Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA)(Reddit)

Airport Details

  • Runways: 1
  • Runway Designation: 10/28
  • Runway Length: 500 metres (1,640 feet)
  • Runway Surface: Paved
  • Runway Strength: Suitable for STOL and very light aircraft
  • Fire Services: Basic firefighting capabilities
  • Tower Frequency: Uncontrolled; use standard traffic advisory frequency 122.8 MHz
  • Ground Frequency: None
  • Navigation Assistance: Visual flight rules (VFR) only; no VOR/DME
  • Customs: Limited; available for international charters with prior arrangement
  • Aircraft Types: Small aircraft (e.g., Britten-Norman Islander, Cessna 208 Caravan)
  • Terminal: Single small terminal for domestic and charter flights
  • Cargo: Minimal; supported local supplies and regional trade
  • Fuel: Unavailable
  • FBO: None
  • Equipment: Basic ground handling equipment
  • Ground Services: Operated by ABAA, including basic passenger assistance(Getty Images, GitHub, Hacking with Swift)

Flight Information

  • Permit Time: 1–2 days for approval
  • Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled flights and charters (contact ABAA)
  • Slots: Not required due to low traffic
  • Backup Airports:
    • TAPA: V.C. Bird International Airport, Antigua (approximately 53 km)
    • TAPT: Coco Point Lodge Airstrip (private)
    • Recommended: TAPA (V.C. Bird International Airport)(Getty Images, Reddit)

Contact Information

  • Police: +1 268 462 0125 (Antigua and Barbuda Police Force)
  • Fire Brigade: +1 268 462 0044 (Antigua and Barbuda Fire Service)
  • Customs: +1 268 462 0025 (Antigua and Barbuda Customs and Excise Division)
  • Airport Contacts:

Visitor Information

  • Immigration Rules: Valid passport required; most nationalities require a visa (e.g., USA, UK, EU; verify with the Antigua and Barbuda embassy)
  • Crew Requirements: Uniform, passport, visa, and flight documents
  • Transport: Taxis and car hire available; journey to town: XCD 10–20 / USD 4–8
  • Accommodation:
    • Codrington: Frangipani Guest House, Barbuda Cottages
    • Antigua: Various hotels near V.C. Bird International Airport
  • Currency: Eastern Caribbean Dollar (XCD); USD widely accepted

Nearby Attractions

Frigate Bird Sanctuary

Home to one of the world’s largest colonies of frigate birds, this sanctuary offers a unique opportunity to observe these magnificent birds in their natural habitat.

Pink Sand Beaches

Stretching along the coastline, these beaches are ideal for relaxation and beachcombing, featuring distinctive pink-hued sands.

Martello Tower

A historic fortification offering panoramic views, the Martello Tower is a testament to the island’s colonial past.

Darby Cave

A unique sinkhole with a mini-ecosystem, Darby Cave is a natural wonder that showcases Barbuda’s geological diversity.

Extra Tips

  • Getting Around: Limited public transport; taxis or rented vehicles recommended.
  • Travel: Attractions are within 3–20 km; guided tours are available.
  • Best Times to Visit:
    • Dry Season (December–April): Ideal for outdoor activities.
    • Wet Season (May–November): Lush landscapes; some roads may be challenging.
  • Tips:
    • Carry cash; card payments may not be accepted everywhere.
    • Book accommodations in advance, especially during peak seasons.
    • Try local dishes like grilled lobster and conch salad.
    • For aviation assistance, contact ABAA at +1 268 484 2300.

Please note that Codrington Airport is no longer operational. All flights now operate through Barbuda (Burton-Nibbs) International Airport.