Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (AAA) proudly reflects on a
remarkable 2024, marked by significant growth across key performance metrics.
Despite infrastructure challenges, AAA successfully balanced stability and sustainable
growth, further solidifying Queen Beatrix International Airport’s position as the premier
aviation hub in the Caribbean.
In 2024, Aruba Airport managed 30,604 flights, reflecting a 5.2% increase compared to
2023. The airport served over 1.5 million revenue-generating passengers (RGP),
processing a total of 3.2 million passengers—a 14.1% year-over-year growth.
Additionally, seat capacity expanded by 15.4%, surpassing 1.96 million seats and
reinforcing the island’s growing connectivity.
Aruba Airport remains a vital gateway, connecting the world with 26 airlines operating
non-stop flights to over 45 destinations across 32 cities. In 2024, seat capacity grew by
15%, adding 263,000 additional seats—a testament to AAA’s commitment to meeting
the rising demand for travel to Aruba.
The majority of travelers – 71% traveled to the United States, underscoring the strength
of this key market. Other regions also experienced substantial growth:
• Canada: Passenger traffic surged by 18%, reflecting increased interest
from North America.
• Latin America & the Caribbean: Demand soared by 30%, highlighting the
region’s growing importance.
• Dutch Caribbean: A 7% increase further reinforced intra-Caribbean
connectivity.
• Europe: Departing passenger traffic declined by 7%, the only region to
experience a downturn.
Aruba Airport’s overall growth shows its ability to attract diverse markets and sustain its
position as a top-tier travel destination, supporting both tourism and the local economy.
2024 saw the arrival of new airline partners, LATAM Airlines and GOL, along with direct
flights to key destinations such as Lima, São Paulo, Medellín, and Cali. Existing
carriers, including JetBlue, Delta, American Airlines, Avianca, and Copa Airlines, also
increased flight capacity by 16%. The year concluded with an impressive 85.5%
average load factor, demonstrating strong passenger demand and efficient seat
utilization.
Aruba Airport’s Gateway 2030 project, launched in 2019 to accommodate Aruba’s
growing travel demand, reached a major milestone in 2024. Phase 1A is nearing
completion and is set to be operational in the first quarter of 2025—a $140 million
investment designed to revolutionize airport operations.
Key Upgrades Include:
• New U.S. Departure Check-In Hall: A spacious, eco-friendly facility with
modernized check-in processes, self-service options, and local artwork by
Armando Goedgedrag.
• Advanced Baggage Handling System: Capable of processing 2,000 bags
per hour, ensuring faster screening and improved efficiency for U.S.-bound
travelers.
Looking ahead, Phase 1B has commenced, with completion expected in 2027. This
phase will introduce additional hold rooms, boarding bridges, and arrival corridors,
further enhancing passenger comfort and capacity. Preparations are also underway for
Phases 2 and 3, ensuring continued modernization and expansion.
In alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), AAA
reinforced its dedication to environmental responsibility in 2024. The airport maintained
its Airport Carbon Accreditation – ACA Level 3 and Green Globe certifications, while
also receiving international recognition through the Airport Council International Latin
American & Caribbean – ACI-LAC Green Airport Awards for excellence in waste
management, sustainability monitoring, and eco-friendly operations. These initiatives
emphasize Aruba Airport’s leadership in green airport development.
As Aruba Airport embarks on 2025, AAA remains focused on strengthening global
connectivity, enhancing passenger experiences, and advancing sustainability initiatives.
With continued airline partnerships, infrastructure investments, and innovative
programs, the airport is set to achieve new milestones and maintain its status as a
benchmark of excellence in Caribbean aviation.
“2024 has been a successful year for Aruba Airport, marked by numerous milestones
and achievements. We faced challenges head-on, turning them into opportunities, and
are fully prepared to build on this momentum in 2025 and beyond, as we pursue the
ambitious goals set for the coming year. We are immensely proud of the commitment
and contributions of every member of AAA’s team. Their combined efforts have been
instrumental in making 2024 another record-breaking and highly successful year. As we
look to the future, we remain committed to maintaining a safe and secure airport
operation while advancing our strategic initiatives for years to come” – Jurgen
Benschop, Chief Operations Officer and Barbara Brown, Chief Revenue Development &
Communications Officer – part of the Interim Management Team of AAA.
“2024 has been a successful year for Aruba Airport, marked by numerous milestones
and achievements. We faced challenges head-on, turning them into opportunities, and
are fully prepared to build on this momentum in 2025 and beyond, as we pursue the
ambitious goals set for the coming year. We are immensely proud of the commitment
and contributions of every member of AAA’s team. Their combined efforts have been
instrumental in making 2024 another record-breaking and highly successful year. As we
look to the future, we remain committed to maintaining a safe and secure airport
operation while advancing our strategic initiatives for years to come” – Jurgen
Benschop, Chief Operations Officer and Barbara Brown, Chief Revenue Development &
Communications Officer – part of the Interim Management Team of AAA.
About AUA Airport
About AUA Airport AUA Airport is one of the busiest airports in the Caribbean region,
with more than 25 different airlines operating into Aruba contributing to processing
almost 3 million passengers per year and providing air service to 31 cities and 45 nonstop destinations worldwide. AUA Airport’s markets served comprise of 76% from the
United States & Canada, 16% from Latin America, 5% from Europe, and 4% from Dutch
Caribbean. AUA Airport attributes this to the island’s stable economic and political
climate, hospitable and multilingual population, and safe environment. AUA Airport’s
aspiration is to become one of the most Sustainable, Safe, and Future Proof airports of
the Latin America & Caribbean region, providing a trusted workplace, modern airport
facilities and excellent customer service which reflects Aruban hospitality, contributing to
a prosperous future for Aruba.
Learn more about what’s happening at AUA Airport by visiting www.airportaruba.com
and connect with AUA Airport on Twitter.com/Aruba_Airport,
Facebook.com/ArubaAirport, Instagram.com/arubaairport/, TikTok.com/@arubaairport
and Linkedin.com/ArubaAirport
Aruba Airport Achieves Record-Breaking Growth in 2024 Over 3.2 Million Passengers Processed as Connectivity and Growth Surge
