ORANJESTAD (AAN): The Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (AAA) is preparing to launch the next phase of its Gateway 2030 Expansion Program, initiating key enabling works that will transform the passenger terminal. The preparations mark a significant milestone for Phase 2, which will focus on modernizing the core passenger experience inside the terminal.
Progress So Far
The Gateway 2030 program began with Phase 1A, which delivered a new check-in hall for U.S.-bound passengers featuring a modern design and an advanced baggage handling system to improve efficiency and passenger flow.
Phase 1B, currently underway near Gate 8, is expanding the terminal with additional departure gates, waiting areas, and boarding bridges to increase capacity and enhance the boarding experience.
Phase 2: Transforming the Heart of the Terminal
With Phase 1A completed and Phase 1B progressing, Aruba Airport is now entering Phase 2, where the transformation centers on the main terminal experience. Phase 2 will include an expanded check-in hall for all passengers, new immigration and security areas, a modernized processing facility for U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP), and a new commercial area with food and beverage options.
What This Means for Travelers
To allow for Phase 2 construction in the current U.S. processing area, the airport will implement a carefully planned temporary solution to ensure uninterrupted operations. Starting May 1, the existing shops and food outlets located after the security checkpoint will close so the space can be transformed into a temporary U.S. passenger processing facility. April 30 will be the last day of sales in that area. Some commercial and food offerings will relocate to other parts of the airport.
Construction of the temporary processing facility for U.S.-bound passengers will begin in June. During this period, a temporary corridor will be built to guide passengers safely through the terminal, while U.S.-bound travelers will continue using the current processing area.
Once complete, U.S. processing will move to the temporary facility, allowing the current U.S. processing area to undergo a full renovation as part of Phase 2. After Phase 2 is finished, operations will return to the improved space, and the temporary facility will be removed to make way for a new commercial plaza and food and beverage area for non-U.S. passengers.
Commitment to Passenger Experience
AAA Chief Executive Officer Jonny Andersen emphasized the importance of the work, stating that the construction is a necessary step toward transforming Aruba’s airport into a more efficient and future-ready facility, strengthening its role as a key connection hub in the Caribbean. He acknowledged that temporary adjustments may be needed but reaffirmed the airport’s commitment to ensuring a positive experience for all passengers throughout the construction period.
The airport is encouraging passengers to follow airport signage and allow extra time when traveling, as routes within the terminal may look different during construction, though the overall process will remain the same.
About Aruba Airport
AUA Airport is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean region, with more than 24 airlines operating in Aruba, contributing to over 3.2 million passengers per year and serving 31 countries and 45 non-stop destinations worldwide. Of the markets served, 74% are from the United States and Canada, 18% from Latin America, 4% from Europe, and 5% from the Dutch Caribbean. More information is available at www.airportaruba.com.
