Flights are the most popular way for visitors to reach Barbados

Considered the easternmost of the islands in the Caribbean, Barbados attracts travelers from around the globe.  The Barbados Grantley Adams International Airport is a main transfer hub for the Eastern Caribbean, and services more than twenty flights daily.

The Barbados Grantley Adams International Airport (BGI) is located approximately ten miles southeast of the capital, Bridgetown, in the parish of Christ Church.  Its facilities include a bank, post office, bar, restaurant and duty-free shopping.

Several airlines from the United States, Canada and Europe have direct service to Barbados although many flights pass through San Juan. The non-stop flight time from Miami is only three and one-half hours. Flying time from New York is four and one-half hours, and from Los Angeles nine hours.  Many airlines with connections to other Caribbean islands land in Barbados.

Be aware that porters at the airport charge per bag for handling luggage between the claim area and the street outside the customs terminal. Tipping is expected should you use them. There is regular bus service to Bridgetown which takes approximately forty-five minutes.  Taxi service is also available 24 hours a day with an approximate drive time of thirty minutes, costing about $35.

Taxis are fixed by the government and are not metered, and are easily identifiable by the letter Z on the license plates.

There are rental car agencies on the island, but most are not affiliated with any of the major US companies. All agencies will provide driving permits and some will deliver the car to your hotel/resort.  Be advised that some vacationers are not always pleased with the service and condition of the car.

Airlines

After arriving, you can indulge the urge to island hop by taking advantage of any one of a number of small Caribbean airlines. In order to get to Barbados, however, you'll need to choose from one of the following major airlines, all of which have regularly scheduled flights to the Caribbean.

Airlines servicing the Caribbean from the United States include:

Airlines servicing the Caribbean from Canada and Europe include:

Airlines offering connections between major flights and local Caribbean regional service:

Air Jamaica

800-523-558

Trans Island Airm 2000

If you're unfamiliar with the reputation of a particular airline, consult the United States Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) which ranks carriers based on safety, service, and performance. Contact the FAA at: 800 Independence Ave., SW; Washington D.C., 20591 or find them online at www.faa.gov. You can also phone the FAA regarding specific issues:

Airport Security

Airports worldwide have enhanced security measures so travelers will find that additional security checks are required, in addition to the standard baggage screening procedures.

Many airports also conduct random passenger inspections that require a complete search of the person and all of their belongings.  Plan on arriving at the airport at least two hours in advance of your scheduled departure time.

To reduce waiting time and ensure you reach your gate in a timely manner, heed these air travel standards and warnings:

• Before going to the airport, call the airline to confirm the departure of your flight.  Make sure you have your ticket or e-ticket confirmation page and your passport before arriving at the airport.

• Keep your passport and boarding pass readily available for security clearance.  Children under 16 are permitted to travel with only a birth certificate or other proof of citizenship, although passports for children are recommended. For further information on passports, visit the U.S. State Department's website.

• Avoid wearing items that might set off metal detectors such as steel-toed boots, heavy jewelry, or bulky belt buckles.

• If you have any metal surgical implants, bring a current signed note from your doctor to avoid the possibility of a long meeting with an airport official.

• You will only be allowed to pass through security with a ticket for travel (non-ticketed persons can only pass through if accompanying a child, elderly or disabled person). It is best to check with the specific airline for any other possible required documentation.

Carry-On Luggage

Regulations passed by airlines require stringent monitoring of carry-on luggage. Use caution when packing for your Barbados vacation, and try to plan wisely. If you will not need a certain item aboard the plane, try to pack it in your checked luggage. Remember that potential hazards such as metal scissors, nail clippers and razors are not permitted on flights. If you have a question about what is acceptable or need a complete list of controlled items, visit the official Web site of the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) at www.tsa.gov/public/index.jsp or call 1-866-289-9673 in the United States. 

Other factors to bear in mind include:

• Each passenger is limited to one carry-on bag plus one private item such as a briefcase, laptop case or purse.  Liquids, aerosols and gel toiletries are only allowed in 3.4 ounce bottles or less, in a one quart or smaller sized clear, plastic zip type bag.  These items will need to be placed on the screening belt.

• You will need to remove your shoes, jackets, sweaters and other outer-wear and place them in the bins provided for x-ray scanning.  Loose change, cellular phones and other personal devices will also need to be screened separately.
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• Food and beverages you wish to bring on board may only be purchased after you have cleared security.

• Avoid taking wrapped gifts with you, as they could be unwrapped or damaged if the package is suspicious and/or sets off a detector.  Consider shipping these items to your destination prior to your arrival.

• For the most up-to-date baggage regulations, including weight and size limitations, including any possible added fees, check with your airline carrier.

Travelers to Barbados will find airlines one of the most convenient ways to reach the island. With reliable flight options and consistent schedules, it's easy to see why air travel is the most popular way to arrive.

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