Aruba Airport Advances Expansion with Gateway 2030 Project
Queen Beatrix International Airport (Aruba Airport) has experienced notable passenger growth in recent years, processing over 1.3 million passengers in 2023—representing a 95% recovery compared to 2019. This positive trend is expected to continue, with projections indicating that the airport will handle approximately 1.5 million passengers by the end of 2024 and surpass this number by the end of 2025. In response to this increasing passenger volume, Aruba Airport is undertaking a major expansion project, Gateway 2030. This initiative is a substantial investment in modernizing and enhancing the airport's infrastructure to address capacity constraints and deliver a world-class experience.
The Gateway 2030 project is divided into four phases, with Phase 1A’s building delivered in June of 2024. After commissioning and testing of the various systems included in this building it is expected that is will be operational in the 1st quarter of 2025. This phase includes the enlargement of the U.S. check-in facility, featuring advanced biometric and self-service equipment. It will eventually serve as the primary check-in terminal for all departures.
Phase 1A also includes the installation of a state-of-the-art baggage handling system, designed to process up to 2,000 pieces of luggage per hour with exceptional speed and accuracy. This system will streamline security screening and eliminate the need for passengers to reclaim and recheck luggage when traveling to the USA, significantly enhancing convenience and reducing travel time. Gilbert Rafael, Chief Development & Technology Officer at Aruba Airport, stated, “With the introduction of this new baggage system, Aruba will be the second country globally to implement such advanced technology, streamlining operations by eliminating three passenger processing checkpoints.”
Recently, the Aruba Airport Management Team signed a contract with ABO Projects VOF, a collaboration between Algemeen Bouwbedrijf “Albo Aruba” N.V. and Bouw- en Handelsmaatschappij “Bohama “Aruba N.V.., to undertake the construction of Phase 1B of the Gateway 2030 Project.
Phase 1B will involve several strategic improvements to further enhance airport facilities. This phase includes the expansion and refurbishment of the hold room at Gate 8 to improve passenger comfort. A new concourse will be developed, adding three new gates equipped with cutting-edge infrastructure and technology to increase capacity and enhance departure and arrival services. Additionally, Phase 1B will include the creation of new hold room areas and a connector to seamlessly link the existing airport structure with the new concourse. The new concourse will also feature three remote bus gates with dedicated roadways and ramp access to optimize operations. Furthermore, the expansion will introduce additional retail and food and beverage outlets, providing passengers with enhanced shopping and dining options.
Sustainability is a key focus of the Gateway 2030 project. The enhancements will incorporate solar panels, provisions for the electrification of airside processes, and the reuse of condensate water to promote eco-friendly practices. Notably, the building completed in Phase 1A is the first in Aruba to achieve LEED Gold certification, setting a new standard for sustainable development at the airport.
As Aruba Airport continues to evolve and adapt to growing demands, the Gateway 2030 project underscores the airport’s commitment to providing a modern, efficient, and environmentally responsible airport experience.