
Consultants are in Barbuda to evaluate plans for expanding the island’s international airport, according to Cabinet spokesperson Maurice Merchant.
Speaking at Thursday’s post-Cabinet briefing, Mr Merchant said the project includes extending the runway by 2,000 feet at a cost of $15m, bringing its total length to about 8,000 feet.
“The consultants are preparing for the tendering process. Very soon Barbuda will see American Airlines and other large aircraft landing there, bringing economic benefits,” he said.
Barbuda International Airport, a $14m facility replacing the old Codrington Airport, opened on 3 October 2024. It was named after Eric Burton and Arthur Nibbs, though Mr Burton’s family has since asked for his name to be removed.

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Good to see Barbuda finally getting some real investment. An 8,000-foot runway will definitely change the game for tourism.
American Airlines landing in Barbuda? That could really open up the island, but I hope the community actually benefits and not just developers.
A grand idea if there were the infrastructure and attractions to accommodate large numbers of overnight visitors. The PLH project is for members only and NOBU will be a combination. Lots of those guests will be arriving via private jet. Sure, there is the Barbuda Cottages and a few small guest houses and ‘hotels’ but not enough to warrant an AA flight.
The facts are: there are limited accommodations and attractions in Barbuda (there only so many times you can go to the beach, and see the caves and the bird sanctuary), so why the focus on brining in large jet aircraft? I understand the concept of being prepared but it seems like the cart before the horse. Where is the plan to ensure that the infrastructure and attractions in being developed in tandem so that the grandiose plan of landing big AA jets on a near $30 million airport is not another folly.
BTW, can someone explain the math? The new Barbuda International Airport cost $14m and boasts a 6000 ft runway, however, Mr Merchant said the new project includes extending the runway by 2,000 feet at a cost of $15m. I note the word “includes” so what else is in this project? Enquiring minds want to know.