Grand Bahama International Airport

Features and Advantages

Major Reconstruction. Currently, the airport is in an active stage of renewal: a completely new terminal is being built, promising to become one of the most modern in the region. The current temporary structures are fully functional and provide basic comfort for travellers while the revival of the island's main air harbour takes place.

Proximity to the USA. Grand Bahama is located remarkably close to the coast of Florida — the distance is just over 100 kilometres. This makes the airport an ideal point for short flights ("air taxi") from Miami and Fort Lauderdale, taking less than an hour.

Private Aviation Hub. The airport traditionally enjoys immense popularity among owners of private planes and business jets. There is a developed FBO (Fixed Base Operator) infrastructure here, offering exclusive service and simplified procedures for VIP guests arriving by private transport.

Convenient Logistics. Thanks to its compact size and close proximity to the main tourist zones, the transfer from the aircraft steps to the hotel lobby in the Lucaya area takes only 10–15 minutes. This allows tourists to be on the beach almost immediately after landing.

To contact representatives of Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO), you can use the following contact details:

• Official Website: www.freeportairport.com
• Information Desk Phone: +1 242-352-6020
• Address: Queen's Highway, Freeport, Grand Bahama, The Bahamas
• Email: For official inquiries, it is recommended to use the contact form available on the airport's website.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain active public pages on social networks. The most up-to-date information on flights and services is best verified on the official website or airline pages.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the representative office of the airline you travelled with directly.
• Passenger Support Service: For general information and assistance within the terminal, you can approach the information desk or call the airport's inquiry service.

Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) is located just a few kilometres from the city centre of Freeport, making it easily accessible for travellers. The trip from major tourist areas, such as Port Lucaya, usually takes no more than 10–15 minutes. There are several convenient ways to get to the terminal.

Taxis and Transfers

The simplest and most common way to get to the airport is by taxi. They can be easily found at hotels, on tourist streets, or called by phone. Tariffs in The Bahamas are often regulated and depend on the zone, but it is always useful to clarify the cost of the trip with the driver in advance. On average, a trip from the airport to downtown Freeport or the Port Lucaya area will cost approximately $20–25. Many hotels also offer private or group transfer services (shuttles) for their guests, which can be booked at the reception desk. This is a reliable and comfortable option, especially if you have a lot of luggage.

Car Rental

If you have rented a car to explore the island, you can easily return it at the airport before departure. Most international and local rental companies have their offices and parking lots right on the airport territory. The roads leading to the airport have clear signage. It is important to remember that traffic in the Bahamas is on the left-hand side. Short-term and long-term parking is also available at the airport for those arriving by private transport.

Public Transport

The public transport system in Freeport is represented by route taxis known as "jitneys". This is the most economical way to travel — the fare is usually only $1.25–$2.50 per person. However, it is not the most convenient for trips to the airport. Jitneys do not have strict schedules, and their routes do not always pass directly through the airport. This option might suit experienced travellers travelling light, but for most tourists with luggage, a taxi or transfer will be a much more predictable choice.

Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) is a compact and functional aviation hub serving the city of Freeport and is the second busiest in The Bahamas. It is important to understand that following serious damage caused by a hurricane in the past, the airport is operating in recovery mode. Currently, it consists of one main terminal which handles both domestic and international flights. Its structure is simple and intuitive, making navigation very easy even for first-time visitors.

The airport layout is extremely simple. The entire process — from check-in to boarding — takes place in one building. Since there is only one terminal, no transfers between terminals are required. Upon entering the building, passengers find themselves in a general area with several check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, one must proceed to the security screening area. Departure and arrival zones are clearly separated: arriving passengers, after disembarking, proceed to the arrival hall for passport control and luggage collection.

A key feature of the Freeport airport worth noting for travellers heading to the USA is the presence of a U.S. Pre-clearance facility. This means that you undergo all U.S. immigration and customs formalities right here in the Bahamas. Upon arrival at the American airport, your flight will be considered domestic, which allows you to avoid long queues and significantly save time. The departure zone after passing control offers basic amenities, including small shops and cafes.

To comfortably complete all formalities, it is recommended to arrive at the airport well in advance. If you are flying to the USA, allow at least 2.5-3 hours before departure to calmly go through check-in, standard security screening, and the U.S. Pre-clearance procedure. For all other international and domestic flights, 1.5-2 hours is usually sufficient. Navigation within the terminal will not cause difficulties thanks to signs and compact dimensions, but extra time will allow you to avoid rushing.

The history of Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) is inextricably linked with the development of the city of Freeport itself. The airport was founded in the mid-1950s as part of an ambitious project to transform the island into a free trade zone and a major tourist centre. It was one of the key infrastructure facilities provided for by the Hawksbill Creek Agreement of 1955. From the very beginning, it was conceived as a private airport capable of receiving international flights and stimulating the influx of investors and tourists to The Bahamas.

Over the decades, the airport grew along with Freeport's popularity as a resort. It was repeatedly expanded and modernized to meet the growing passenger flow. Its history has seen both periods of rapid development and serious challenges. One of the most dramatic moments was the devastating impact of Hurricane Dorian in 2019. The elements caused colossal damage to the terminal and the runway, practically paralyzing air traffic to the island.

However, this event became the starting point for the most large-scale reconstruction in the airport's history. Massive restoration works were deployed after the hurricane, and subsequently, the Government of The Bahamas, together with partners, announced plans to build a completely new, modern terminal. The project for the new building includes not only advanced technologies and increased passenger comfort but also structural solutions designed to make the airport more resilient to future hurricanes. This transformation symbolizes the resilience and drive for development of the entire island.

Interesting fact: Grand Bahama Airport is one of two private international airports in the Bahamas. It possesses one of the longest runways in the region, capable of accommodating even the largest airliners, making it a strategically important air hub for both passenger and cargo transportation.

Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) is the main aerial gateway serving the city of Freeport and Grand Bahama Island. Travellers should note that due to the ongoing terminal reconstruction, the range of services may be limited, and amenities are of a basic nature. Nevertheless, everything necessary for a short wait for a flight is available here.

A small cafe operates within the airport building, where you can buy drinks and light snacks. The selection of dishes is generally limited. For those looking for souvenirs to remember their trip to The Bahamas, there is a gift kiosk, as well as a small Duty-Free shop with a basic assortment of perfumes and international goods.

Passengers have access to free Wi-Fi within the terminal, though connection speed may be unstable. Power outlets for charging electronic devices are available, but their number is limited. Regarding financial services, there are ATMs at the airport, but currency exchange points may operate intermittently or be unavailable. VIP lounges may be closed or offer very limited service during the reconstruction period.

The airport provides basic conditions for passengers with reduced mobility; however, it is recommended to contact the airline in advance for special assistance. There is also a mother and child room and a first aid station. There are no hotels on the airport territory, but several accommodation options are located a few minutes away by taxi. Business services and conference rooms are currently unavailable.

Grand Bahama International Airport (FPO) offers passengers several basic but convenient options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the choice here is not as vast as in major international hubs, you will not go hungry.

The main catering establishments are located in the departure zone, after passing security control (airside). Here you will find the main cafe-bar, which is the central place for waiting for a flight. Its menu usually includes sandwiches, salads, pastries, as well as hot and cold drinks, including coffee, tea, juices, and sparkling water. For those wishing to relax before the flight, an assortment of beverages is offered.

If you want to try something from the local cuisine, look out for special offers. Sometimes the menu features Bahamian snacks such as conch fritters or light seafood salads. Be sure to try the local non-alcoholic beverage Goombay Punch with pineapple flavour or enjoy a mixed drink featuring famous local ingredients.

For a quick snack, packaged sandwiches, crisps, chocolate bars, or fresh pastries are ideal. If you have time for a more substantial meal, you can order a hot sandwich, a burger, or a simple hot dish of the day. The price range at the airport is generally average to above average, which is typical for tourist zones.

Unfortunately, the selection for passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegan, gluten-free, halal dishes) is extremely limited. It is recommended to bring suitable snacks with you if you follow a special diet. The opening hours of establishments are usually tied to the flight schedule: they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last plane departs.

To ensure your journey through Grand Bahama International Airport goes smoothly, use these tips. We recommend arriving at the airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to complete all formalities without rushing, especially during peak season.

To save time, use online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. This will allow you to proceed directly to baggage drop or security screening if you are travelling light. Screening points at Freeport airport are standard, but be prepared for a thorough check, especially if you are flying to the USA.

When choosing a seat on the plane, consider your preferences. Window seats will offer you stunning views of the turquoise ocean waters during take-off and landing. Aisle seats provide more legroom and the ability to stand up freely during the flight. For long flights, it is worth studying the aircraft layout on specialized websites in advance.

Liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag, are allowed in hand luggage. Do not forget that sunscreens, lotions, and sprays also fall under this rule. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are prohibited. Always check the current rules on your airline's website.

Passengers with transfers should find information about the boarding gate for the next flight on the display board immediately after arrival. Check with the airline at check-in whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you need to collect it and check it in again. The airport is not very large, so navigation should not cause difficulties.

The main feature of the airport for those departing to the USA is the presence of the U.S. Preclearance facility. This means that you go through all U.S. immigration and customs formalities while still in The Bahamas. Upon arrival in America, your flight will be considered domestic, which significantly saves time. When entering the Bahamas, you will need to fill out a standard immigration card.

To save money, bring an empty reusable water bottle with you, which can be filled after passing security. Food and drink prices at the airport can be high. Also, consider pre-booking a transfer from the airport, which is often more economical than taking a taxi on the spot. Time savings are achieved through online check-in and having all documents ready (passport, visa, tickets).

In case of flight delay or cancellation, first contact your airline's representative desk for information and instructions. Find out about your rights to compensation, provision of meals, or hotel accommodation. If you have travel insurance, contact the insurance company to clarify what expenses it covers in such situations.