Gateway 2030 - preparing next phase
Aruba Airport Authority N.V. (AAA) is preparing for the next phase of its Gateway 2030 Expansion Program by initiating key enabling works that will make the transformation of the terminal possible. These preparations mark an important step toward Phase 2, which will focus on modernizing the core passenger experience within the terminal.
Gateway 2030 is a multi-phase program designed to enhance the overall travel experience while preparing Aruba Airport for future growth.
Progress to Date
The program began with Phase 1A, which introduced a new U.S. Check-In Hall featuring a modern design and an advanced baggage handling system to improve efficiency and passenger flow.
Phase 1B, currently underway near Gate 8, expands the terminal with new gates, waiting areas, and boarding bridges to support increased capacity and improve the boarding experience.
Phase 2: Transforming the Heart of the Terminal
With Phase 1A completed and Phase 1B progressing, Aruba Airport is now entering Phase 2, where the transformation shifts to the core terminal experience.
Phase 2 will introduce:
- A new expanded check-in hall for U.S. and non-U.S. passengers
- New immigration and security areas
- A modernized U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) processing area
- A new commercial and food & beverage plaza
What This Means for Passengers
To enable Phase 2 construction in the current U.S. processing area, Aruba Airport will implement a carefully planned temporary solution to ensure uninterrupted operations. These preparatory works are essential to facilitate construction within this area while maintaining a smooth and efficient passenger journey throughout the terminal.
Starting May 1, the existing post-security shopping and dining area will be cleared to make way for a temporary U.S. processing facility. Select retail and food & beverage locations will be relocated to other areas within the terminal, with April 30 marking the last day of sales in this area.
Construction of this temporary U.S processing facility will begin in June. During this period:
- Construction of a temporary corridor will begin in June to safely guide passengers through the terminal as construction progresses
- Passengers traveling to the United States will continue using the existing U.S. processing area
Once completed, U.S. processing will move to the temporary facility, allowing the current U.S. Processing area to be fully renovated as part of phase 2. After Phase 2 is finalized, operations will move back to the upgraded space, and the temporary facility will be removed to make way for a new commercial and food & beverage plaza for non-U.S. travelers.
“These works are a necessary step in transforming Aruba Airport into a more efficient and future-ready airport, strengthening our role as a key connecting hub in the Caribbean. While this may bring temporary adjustments, we are committed to ensuring a smooth and positive passenger experience throughout the upcoming construction period, ” said Jonny Andersen, Chief Executive Officer of Aruba Airport.
Passengers are encouraged to follow airport signage and allow extra time when traveling, as routes within the terminal may look different, but the process will remain the same.