Owen Roberts International Airport (IATA: GCM – ICAO: MWCR) is the primary international airport serving the Cayman Islands. Located in George Town on Grand Cayman, it is the main gateway for travelers visiting this Caribbean destination for leisure, diving, and business.

GCM handles international flights from North America, Central America, and the Caribbean, and it is the hub for Cayman Airways. The airport is named after British Royal Air Force Wing Commander Owen Roberts.

The airport is run by the Cayman Islands Airports Authority and operates modern facilities for both international and local flights. Owen Roberts International Airport is known for its efficient service and convenient location, just a short drive from many hotels and attractions. For those planning a trip to the Cayman Islands, understanding what to expect at Owen Roberts International Airport can help make travel smoother and more enjoyable.

Learn more about what makes Owen Roberts International Airport a key part of travel in the Cayman Islands by reading on. For more details about the airport itself, visit the official Cayman Airports website or check the Owen Roberts International Airport Wikipedia page.

General Information

Location: George Town, Grand Cayman, Cayman Islands
Country: Cayman Islands (British Overseas Territory)
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: GCM
ICAO Code: MWCR
Elevation: 8 feet (2 metres)
Coordinates: 19°17′25″N 081°21′34″W
Timezone: UTC−5 (year-round)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 2 km (1.2 miles) from downtown George Town
Website: www.caymanairports.com
Operator: Cayman Islands Airports Authority
Services: International and domestic flights, charter services, customs, immigration

Parking Information

Short-Term Parking

Rate: Approx. CI$2/hour (~$2.40 USD/hour)
Distance: Directly outside the terminal
Ideal For: Passenger pick-ups and short visits

Long-Term Parking

Rate: Approx. CI$12/day (~$14.50 USD/day)
Distance: Adjacent to the terminal building
Ideal For: Overnight or extended stays

Payment Methods: Credit/debit cards, cash
Security: Gated with lighting and monitored access

Contact Information

Airport Info Line: +1 345-943-7070
Email: info@caymanairports.com
FBO Services: Island Air and Cayman Islands FBO provide handling, fueling, and VIP services

Passenger Information

Immigration Requirements: Valid passport; visa requirements vary by nationality
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration; customs coordination required
Transport Options: Taxis, car rentals, hotel shuttles, private transfers
Nearby Accommodation: Grand Cayman Marriott Resort, The Ritz-Carlton Grand Cayman, Hampton by Hilton Grand Cayman
Currency: Cayman Islands Dollar (CI$); U.S. dollars widely accepted

Significance to Grand Cayman

Owen Roberts International Airport is the main air entry point for Grand Cayman. Most international flights land here, supporting both tourism and business activities. The airport helps connect Grand Cayman to cities in North America, the Caribbean, and beyond.

The airport serves as the main base for Cayman Airways. It plays a vital role in the island’s economy by handling thousands of monthly visitors. With modern facilities and regular upgrades, it meets international standards and supports continued growth.

Owen Roberts International Airport is managed by the Cayman Islands Airports Authority. Its efficient operations ensure smooth travel for both locals and tourists, making it a critical link for the island’s transportation and economic development. Learn more at the airport’s official overview.

Airport Facilities and Services

Owen Roberts International Airport offers essential services and practical amenities for passengers arriving, departing, or in transit. Key features include modern terminal facilities, accessible services, and thorough customs procedures designed for efficient entry and exit.

Terminal Building Features

The terminal building at Owen Roberts International Airport provides travelers with a range of amenities. Passengers will find dining options, including cafes and restaurants, as well as retail shops for duty-free goods and souvenirs. There are also ATMs available, making it easy to access cash in the local currency, which is the Cayman Islands Dollar.

Travelers can use wireless internet throughout the main terminal areas. Play areas are available for families with children to relax before boarding. The airport also includes facilities for passengers with disabilities, such as ramps and accessible restrooms. For added convenience, there is a postal drop and currency exchange. Meeting rooms and an airport lounge are available for those seeking extra comfort or privacy. For more details on the airport’s features, visit the Owen Roberts International Airport overview.

Customs and Immigration

Upon arrival, all passengers must pass through customs and immigration before entering the Cayman Islands. The airport operates within the Atlantic Standard Time Zone, which helps travelers prepare for any necessary adjustments.

Customs officers inspect luggage and may ask questions about goods brought into the country. The airport enforces strict rules on certain items, including food products and large amounts of currency. Immigration staff check passports and entry documents, ensuring visitors have the proper paperwork and meet entry requirements.

Travelers are advised to have all documents easily accessible for smooth processing. Staff are on hand to help with any questions regarding arrival, departure, and requirements for international travel. Those with support needs should request assistance in advance to help make the customs experience as smooth as possible. You can learn more about these procedures at the customer service page for Cayman Islands Airports.

Airlines and Flight Operations

Owen Roberts International Airport serves as the leading gateway for travelers entering and leaving Grand Cayman. The airport offers both domestic and international flights through several major airlines.

Cayman Airways and Hub Services

Cayman Airways is the national flag carrier and has its main base at Owen Roberts International Airport. The airline operates a range of services, including domestic routes to the Sister Islands and regional flights to cities like Miami, Kingston, and Havana.

Cayman Airways is known for providing daily flights and special charter operations, making it essential for connecting residents and tourists with key Caribbean and North American destinations. Travelers benefit from reliable schedules and the unique touch of Caymanian hospitality.

Key features include:

  • Daily flights: Frequent departures to Miami, Kingston, and other regional cities.
  • Domestic services: Direct flights to Cayman Brac and Little Cayman.
  • Charter options: Available for group or special travel needs.

This central role means Cayman Airways remains a vital link for island life and business travel. More information is available on the Cayman Airways website.

International Carriers and Destinations

Alongside the national carrier, Owen Roberts International Airport is served by several international airlines, offering connectivity beyond the region. Major carriers such as Air Canada operate flights on a seasonal and year-round basis, depending on demand and travel trends.

Travelers can access direct routes from cities in North America and Europe. Airlines provide services to and from locations like Toronto, New York, Atlanta, and London.

List of prominent international airlines:

  • Air Canada (seasonal service)
  • American Airlines
  • British Airways
  • Delta Air Lines

Flight schedules often vary, but the airport maintains an updated arrivals and departures timetable to help passengers plan trips effectively. More details can be found in this overview of airlines at Owen Roberts International Airport.

Local Attractions

Seven Mile Beach

World-renowned white sand beach is ideal for swimming, snorkeling, and sunsets.

Stingray City

Unique shallow sandbar experience where visitors interact with southern stingrays.

George Town

The capital city offers shopping, dining, and cultural heritage sites.

Cayman Turtle Centre

Marine park featuring sea turtle encounters, snorkel lagoon, and wildlife exhibits.

Queen Elizabeth II Botanic Park

Tropical gardens, trails, and native blue iguanas in a serene setting.

Travel Tips

Duty-free shopping and local artisan goods are available in the departure terminal.

GCM is busiest midweek and on weekends, so arrive early for international departures.

Cayman Airways offers nonstop service to several U.S. cities.

Taxis are metered and regulated; rideshare services are not available.

Frequently Asked Questions

Owen Roberts International Airport offers services for local and international travelers, including flight information, transportation options, and passenger facilities. Arriving and departing visitors have access to a range of amenities and connections.

What are the available facilities at Owen Roberts International Airport?

The airport has restaurants, shops, restrooms, and free Wi-Fi. Passengers can find ATMs, a lost and found desk, and information counters.

Travelers can request private security searches, but all items must still go through an x-ray machine. The airport provides accessible areas and family-friendly spaces as well.

How can I check the status of departures and arrivals at Owen Roberts International Airport?

The official airport website lists up-to-date departure and arrival times. Screens inside the terminal also show the latest flight information.

Checking with your airline or their mobile app is another way to receive real-time updates on flight status.

Which airlines operate direct flights to the United States from Owen Roberts International Airport?

Several airlines fly directly between Owen Roberts International Airport and cities in the United States. These usually include American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, JetBlue, and Cayman Airways.

Destinations often include Miami, Charlotte, New York, Houston, and Tampa.

What transportation options are available from Owen Roberts International Airport to nearby destinations?

Taxis are available outside the terminal and are the main way to reach nearby hotels and locations in George Town. Shared shuttle services may be offered by some resorts.

Buses do not stop directly at the airport, but public transportation is available from nearby stops.

Does Owen Roberts International Airport have lounges or meeting rooms available for travelers?

The terminal has a VIP lounge, mainly for business class or eligible frequent flyer passengers. Some lounges may allow entry for a fee.

Meeting rooms are not common in the airport, but some business services can be arranged in advance.

Can you provide information on car rental services at Owen Roberts International Airport?

Several major rental car companies have counters inside the arrivals area. Travelers can book in advance or on arrival.

After completing paperwork, vehicles are picked up just outside the terminal for easy access.