list of airports in Grenada

Grenada, the “Spice Isle,” is a Caribbean paradise attracting visitors with its lush landscapes, stunning beaches, and vibrant culture. Getting to and around this beautiful island nation is easier than you might think, thanks to its network of airports. While not a large country, Grenada has two main airports serving both international and domestic travel needs. This guide provides a comprehensive overview of the airports in Grenada, helping you plan your journey with confidence.

Understanding Grenada’s Airport System

Grenada’s airport infrastructure caters to a range of aircraft, from large international jets to smaller regional planes. The two primary airports, Maurice Bishop International Airport and Lauriston Airport (also known as Grenada Airport), play distinct roles in connecting the island to the world and facilitating inter-island travel. Understanding the differences between these airports is crucial for a smooth travel experience. Maurice Bishop handles the bulk of international flights, while Lauriston focuses on regional connections and general aviation.

Maurice Bishop International Airport (MBIA) – The Main Gateway

Maurice Bishop International Airport (IATA: GND) is Grenada’s largest and most important airport. Located near the capital city of St. George’s, it’s the primary point of entry for international travelers. The airport underwent a significant expansion and renovation project completed in 2024, enhancing its capacity and modernizing its facilities.

MBIA serves several major airlines, including JetBlue, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, and Caribbean Airlines, offering direct flights to and from the United States, United Kingdom, and other Caribbean islands. The airport features a modern terminal building with amenities such as duty-free shopping, restaurants, car rental services, and comfortable waiting areas. Immigration and customs procedures are generally efficient, though peak times can experience some delays.

Key Features of Maurice Bishop International Airport:

International Flights: Primarily handles flights from North America and Europe.

Runway Length: 8,100 feet (2,468 meters) – capable of accommodating larger aircraft.

Passenger Capacity: Approximately 1.5 million passengers annually (post-renovation).

Location: Point Salines, St. George’s, Grenada.

Transportation: Taxis and pre-booked airport transfers are readily available.

Lauriston Airport (GRN) – Regional Connections & Beyond

Lauriston Airport (IATA: GRN), also known as Grenada Airport, is a smaller airport located in the northeast of the island. It primarily serves regional airlines connecting Grenada to other islands in the Eastern Caribbean, such as St. Vincent and the Grenadines, Dominica, and Antigua.

Lauriston Airport is also popular with private pilots and charter flights. It offers a more intimate and less crowded experience compared to MBIA. Facilities are more basic, but sufficient for regional travel.

Key Features of Lauriston Airport:

Regional Flights: Focuses on inter-island connections within the Caribbean.

Runway Length: 3,600 feet (1,097 meters) – suitable for smaller aircraft.

Passenger Capacity: Significantly lower than MBIA, catering to regional traffic.

Location: Lauriston, St. David Parish, Grenada.

Transportation: Taxis and pre-arranged transportation are the main options.

A Table of Grenada’s Airports

Airport Name	IATA Code	Location	Type of Flights	Runway Length (ft)	Key Features
Maurice Bishop Int’l Airport	GND	Point Salines	International	8,100	Main international gateway, modern facilities
Lauriston Airport	GRN	Lauriston	Regional	3,600	Inter-island connections, smaller scale

Navigating Between Airports & Local Transportation

While both airports serve Grenada, they are located at opposite ends of the island. If you arrive at Lauriston Airport and your accommodation is near St. George’s, you’ll need to arrange transportation. Taxis are available at both airports, but pre-booking a transfer is often recommended, especially for larger groups or if you prefer a fixed price. The journey between the two airports takes approximately 45-60 minutes, depending on traffic. Rental cars are also an option, allowing you to explore the island at your own pace.

Future Developments in Grenada’s Aviation

Grenada is committed to improving its tourism infrastructure, and this includes ongoing developments in its aviation sector. Plans are in place to further enhance the facilities at both Maurice Bishop International Airport and Lauriston Airport, aiming to increase capacity, improve passenger experience, and attract more airlines. These improvements will solidify Grenada’s position as a key travel destination in the Caribbean.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: Which airport is best for international flights?
A: Maurice Bishop International Airport (GND) is the primary airport for international flights.

Q: Can I fly directly to Grenada from the UK?
A: Yes, British Airways offers direct flights to Grenada from London Gatwick.

Q: Is it easy to get a taxi at the airports?
A: Yes, taxis are readily available at both airports, but pre-booking is advisable.

Q: What is the difference between GND and GRN?
A: GND (Maurice Bishop) handles large international aircraft, while GRN (Lauriston) serves smaller regional planes.

Q: Are there any car rental options at the airports?
A: Yes, several car rental companies operate at Maurice Bishop International Airport. Limited options are available at Lauriston Airport, so pre-booking is recommended.