Source: Aruba Airport

  • Aruba Airport Authority Advances Gateway 2030: Phase 1B Expansion Now Underway

Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (AAA) highlights the ongoing work within its transformative Gateway 2030 program, as activities for Phase 1B advance. This next milestone marks another significant step toward redefining the travel experience at Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA), ensuring that Aruba remains a world-classno destination built for today’s traveler and ready for tomorrow’s demands.

Building the Future of Aruba’s Airport

Gateway 2030 is a multi-year airport transformation program designed to expand, modernize, and elevate Aruba’s primary gateway. Its focus is to create a seamless, efficient, and welcoming travel experience for every passenger.

With the completion of Phase 1A in April 2025, travelers now enjoy a spacious and technologically advanced U.S. Check-In Terminal, designed for efficiency and sustainability. Supported by a state-of-the-art baggage handling system capable of processing up to 2,000 bags per hour.

Phase 1B: Expanding Capacity, Comfort & Convenience

As Phase 1B gets underway, passengers and partners will begin to see the airport expand even further. This new phase focuses on enhancing the departures experience through:

  • Three new gates equipped with three boarding bridges
  • Three new bus gates
  • Expanded hold rooms for increased seating and comfort
  • Improved operational flow and passenger circulation

The expansion begins at Gate 8 (Building D), where construction is progressing rapidly. A new connecting bridge will soon link Building D to the brand-new Building E, the future home of the three new gates. Walls are already being raised and poured, with new structural steel in place—visible signs of the airport’s evolution.

Interim CEO James Fazio emphasized the importance of this next phase in the airport’s long-term vision: “Phase 1B reflects our commitment to delivering an airport experience that offers a world-class standard while embracing Aruba’s signature hospitality. Every step we take under Gateway 2030 is designed to enhance comfort, efficiency, and the overall journey for our passengers. We greatly appreciate the patience and support of our community as we continue building an airport that the people of Aruba can be proud of.”

Preparation for Phase 2 is already underway and scheduled to begin immediately after the completion of Phase 1B. Phase 2 will include:

  • A brand-new common-use check-in hall for both U.S. and non-U.S. flights
  • New immigration, security, and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (USCBP) processing areas
  • A new commercial and food & beverage (F&B) plaza

AAA extends its gratitude to all travelers, employees, and partners for their continued patience and support during this important expansion. With innovation, efficiency, and hospitality at the core of this journey, Aruba Airport remains committed to elevating the airport experience and proudly serving as Aruba’s gateway to happiness.