Antigua and Barbuda has inaugurated a comprehensively redeveloped ground transportation complex at VC Bird International Airport, marking a significant infrastructure enhancement for the Caribbean nation’s tourism sector. The transformed facility, formerly known as the old terminal and now designated Terminal B, officially opened Thursday with ceremonial remarks from Permanent Secretary Sean Cenac of the Ministry of Tourism and Civil Aviation.
The newly operational hub centralizes previously fragmented services, housing four major car rental agencies—Bigs Car Rental, TG Car Rental, RL Car Rental, and Chase Car Rental—collectively offering a fleet of 315 vehicles. Additionally, nine tour operators and destination management companies now operate from the consolidated space, eliminating previous terminal congestion and improving operational efficiency.
Cenac, representing Tourism Minister Charles Fernandez, emphasized the strategic importance of the project, stating that tourism remains the primary economic driver for the nation, supporting employment, entrepreneurship, and foreign exchange earnings. He characterized the investment as critical to strengthening Antigua and Barbuda’s competitive position in the Caribbean tourism market.
The upgraded facility incorporates modern amenities including a live flight information display system for real-time arrival monitoring and an extended public address system already operational in the main terminal. ABAA Interim CEO Miguel Southwell detailed the operational improvements, noting the transformation addresses long-standing challenges of scattered services and passenger congestion.
Shakkia Carlos of TG Car Rental, speaking on behalf of rental operators, described the development as emblematic of ‘continued growth, collaboration, and commitment to excellence.’ The project was executed under the direction of ABAA Board Chairman Rolston Potter, with co-project management by Business Development Manager Geneva George. Director of Operations Joseph Samuel and Maintenance Manager Orlan Hurst led the construction team, supported by the Authority’s IT and Accounts departments.