V.C. Bird International Airport
The Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) has announced new enforcement measures governing ground transportation at V.C. Bird International Airport, aimed at strengthening passenger safety and consumer protection.
Effective December 1, 2025, all unauthorized vehicles operating for hire are prohibited from collecting passengers at the airport. The restriction applies to taxis, limousines, shuttles, rental cars, and any other vehicles engaged in paid transportation services.
The ABAA clarified that the rule does not affect private individuals— including family members, friends, or business contacts—who are picking up arriving passengers. However, Airbnb hosts and similar private accommodation operators are not permitted to collect guests unless they have an approved transportation permit.
According to the Authority, only transportation providers formally authorized by the ABAA are allowed to operate on airport grounds. Passenger drop-offs remain open to all vehicles, and hotels registered through the Fast Track Program may continue to pick up their guests.
V.C. Bird International Airport currently accommodates a wide network of approved transportation services, including 70 taxis, 19 car rental companies, 9 tour operators, and 3 limousine operators, serving nearly 500,000 passengers annually.
The ABAA says it may issue a limited number of additional permits on a first-come, first-served basis. Interested operators should contact Ms. Geneva George at [email protected] or 268-484-2303.
Applicants must meet several requirements, including background checks, minimum vehicle standards, customer-service training, and strict compliance with regulated fares.
I travel on a budget. If only official taxis are allowed, I hope they keep the fares reasonable. Sometimes rides in other countries get very expensive if there’s no competition.
I travel on a budget. If only official taxis are allowed, I hope they keep the fares reasonable. Sometimes rides in other countries get very expensive if there’s no competition.
So it’s not permitted unless they get a cut classic
Big chupsss. All you giving them taxi operators too much power
If the aim is better organization, then this could be beneficial depending on the implementation.
As long as my family can still pick me up, I’m fine. But I hope they don’t start tightening rules on regular folks just trying to help their relatives
Ridiculous! Airport is public space!! Anybody should be able to pick up from airport!!! Ever regular taxi drivers! Give me a break. Why they don’t speak about passengers dressing?
Give me an easy time please. You guys are focused on the wrong things. Talk about the electricity problems at the airport for the past days!! If you so want to speak on something.
I understand wanting safety and order, but this might make things harder for people who depend on cheaper rides. Not everyone can afford the airport taxi fares
This is going to hit small accommodation owners. Not all of us can afford to hire a licensed transport provider. Some guests expect pickup as part of the service