Owen Roberts International Airport

Owen Roberts International Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true gateway to the tropical paradise of the Cayman Islands. From the very first moments after landing, one can feel the relaxed atmosphere of a Caribbean holiday here, while the terminal's compact size allows for all formalities to be completed without unnecessary fuss. The recently renovated airport building, with a design inspired by the silhouettes of green sea turtles, harmoniously combines modern technology with island charm, setting travellers in the mood for an unforgettable rest.

The airport is constantly developing to meet the growing flow of tourists and high standards of comfort. Among the key features and advantages of this air harbour, one can highlight:

• Unique Architecture: The terminal roof is shaped like the shells of three turtles, symbolizing the unity of the archipelago's three islands (Grand Cayman, Cayman Brac, and Little Cayman) and giving the building a recognisable appearance.
• Ideal Location: The airport is located just a few minutes' drive from the capital and the famous Seven Mile Beach, allowing tourists to reach the sea almost immediately after collecting their luggage.
• Comfort and Service: Following a large-scale reconstruction, the departure zones have become much more spacious, with new duty-free shops and cosy cafes where one can wait for a flight in comfort.
• Historical Heritage: The airport bears the name of Wing Commander Owen Roberts, a pioneer of commercial aviation in the Caymans, whose efforts laid the foundation for regular air connections between the islands and the outside world.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM). We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data, as it may change.

• Official Website: www.caymanairports.com
• Help Desk Phone: +1 (345) 943-7070
• Address: Owen Roberts International Airport, P.O. Box 10098, Grand Cayman KY1-1001, Cayman Islands
• Email: For general enquiries, you can use the feedback form on the official website or the address ciaa@caymanairports.com.
• Social Media: The airport actively maintains a Facebook page where it publishes current news and answers passenger questions.
• Lost Luggage Information: In case of luggage loss on board the aircraft, you should first contact your airline representatives. If items were lost within the terminal building, please contact airport security. Contacts and a form to fill out are usually available in the "Lost & Found" section of the airport website.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions and assistance, you may contact the main airport help desk number.

Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) is located very close to the capital, George Town, so getting to or from it is quite straightforward. Travellers can choose the mode of transport that best suits them — taxi, public transport, or a rental car — based on budget, amount of luggage, and holiday plans.

Taxis and Private Transfers are the most comfortable way to reach the airport. Taxi ranks can be found throughout the island, especially in tourist areas. An important feature: in the Cayman Islands, there are government-set fixed fares for trips rather than taximeters. We recommend always confirming the cost with the driver before starting the journey. The trip from the centre of George Town will take just 5–10 minutes, and from the popular Seven Mile Beach — about 15–25 minutes. For large groups or families with children, booking a private transfer in advance is convenient.

Public Buses are an excellent choice for budget-conscious tourists and those wishing to experience local life. The transport consists of minivans that ply established routes. This is the most economical way to move around the island. Although there is no direct route into the airport terminal itself, many buses pass in the immediate vicinity. You will need to ask the driver to stop near the terminal. Please note that this option may not be very convenient with large luggage. There are no trains or metro systems on the island.

Car Rental is the ideal solution if you plan to actively explore Grand Cayman. Offices of international and local rental companies operate directly at Owen Roberts Airport, where you can pick up or drop off a car. Important point for drivers: traffic in the Cayman Islands drives on the left. For those arriving at the airport in a personal or rented car, convenient parking with zones for short-term and long-term stays is provided.

Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) is a modern and compact aviation hub that has been significantly expanded and upgraded in recent years. Navigating here is quite simple thanks to a well-thought-out layout.

The airport consists of one main terminal which serves all international and domestic flights. This saves passengers from the need to move between different buildings. All infrastructure — from check-in counters to departure and arrival zones — is located under one roof, making navigation intuitive.

The terminal layout is logical: the check-in area is located on the ground floor. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to the first floor, where they pass through security and passport control, and then enter a spacious departure lounge. Here, one can find duty-free shops, souvenir stalls, cafes, and restaurants, as well as boarding gates. The arrival zone is also located on the ground floor and includes passport control, a baggage claim area, and customs inspection.

Despite its relatively small size, the airport can be busy during peak hours and the tourist season (especially in winter months and during holidays). It is recommended to arrive for check-in at least 2.5-3 hours before an international flight departure to complete all formalities without rushing. At other times, procedures take significantly less time. Signage is clear and understandable, and staff are always ready to assist, so getting lost here is practically impossible.

The history of Owen Roberts International Airport is the history of the development and prosperity of the Cayman Islands themselves. The airport, having become the country's main air gateway, has come a long way from a modest airstrip to a modern international hub.

The airport was named in honour of Wing Commander Owen Roberts, a pioneer of commercial aviation in the region. Although the first flights began as early as 1952, the official opening in 1954 was a landmark event for the islands. Initially, the airport was designed to service small propeller aircraft, which corresponded to the modest tourist flows of that time.

A key stage of development was the modernisation in the 1980s, when the runway was expanded and lengthened to accommodate large jet airliners. This decision radically changed the tourism industry of the Cayman Islands, opening them up to mass tourism from North America and Europe. In 2004, the airport suffered seriously from Hurricane Ivan, one of the most destructive in Caribbean history. However, it was quickly restored, demonstrating the resilience and importance of this facility for the country.

The most massive transformation in the airport's history occurred between 2016 and 2019. As part of a major reconstruction project, a new, spacious terminal was built, increasing capacity from 500,000 to 2.5 million passengers per year. The modern design, inspired by the shape of a turtle, improved infrastructure, and enhanced passenger comfort have raised the airport to a new level, making it one of the best in the Caribbean region.

Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) offers passengers all necessary amenities for a comfortable wait for their flight. In the terminal, you will find several cafes and restaurants where you can have a quick snack with sandwiches and pastries or a full meal, enjoying dishes of local and international cuisine. For shopping enthusiasts, there are Duty Free shops, souvenir stalls with handmade items, and boutiques offering goods from famous brands.

For those who prefer to await their departure in a calmer environment, the Sir Turtle Lounge VIP area is available. Here, guests are offered snacks, beverages, current periodicals, and comfortable places to rest. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, and special stations located in the waiting lounges are provided for charging gadgets.

At Owen Roberts Airport, you can easily resolve financial matters: ATMs and currency exchange points are at your service. There is also a first aid station within the terminal. For passengers with small children, nursing rooms equipped with changing tables are available, making travel with little ones more convenient.

The airport is fully adapted for passengers with reduced mobility: there are ramps, special restrooms, and elevators. Airport staff are ready to provide necessary assistance if you notify your airline in advance. There are no hotels or conference halls directly within the airport building; however, many hotels with excellent business centres are located just a few minutes' drive away, in the area of George Town and the famous Seven Mile Beach.

At Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM), passengers will find several excellent options for a bite to eat before departure or upon arrival in the Cayman Islands. Although the airport cannot boast the scale of major metropolises, there are establishments here for both a full lunch and fast food points capable of satisfying any taste.

The majority of cafes and restaurants are concentrated in the departure zone, after passing security control (airside). This allows you to relax while waiting for your flight without worrying about time. Here at your service are:

• The Anchor Bar & Grill: The airport's main restaurant offering full service. The menu features international cuisine, hearty breakfasts, burgers, as well as local Caribbean specialities. An ideal place for a leisurely lunch or dinner.
• Cayman Turtle Brewery Bar: An excellent choice for those wishing to experience the island atmosphere one last time. They serve locally crafted beverages as well as classic bistro snacks.
• Fast Food: For those in a hurry, world-famous chains such as Wendy's and Subway operate in the departure zone, offering familiar burgers, sandwiches, and salads.
• Island Taste: A "Grab & Go" format counter where you can quickly pick up sandwiches, pastries, beverages, and other snacks to take away.

In the public zone, before passing security (landside), the selection is more modest but sufficient for those seeing someone off or those who have arrived at the airport early. The The Hungry Horse restaurant is located here, where you can order hot dishes, snacks, and beverages in a quiet setting.

Be sure to try the local cuisine. At `The Anchor Bar & Grill`, you can often find dishes such as jerk chicken, conch fritters, or fresh seafood. This is a wonderful opportunity to enjoy the authentic taste of the Caribbean once more. Regarding refreshments, the produce from `Cayman Turtle Brewery` is a truly local product.

Most establishments offer vegetarian options, for example, salads or vegetable sandwiches. Finding vegan or gluten-free dishes may be more challenging, but staff are usually ready to help and suggest alternatives. Please note that prices at the airport are expectedly higher than in establishments in George Town. The opening hours of cafes and restaurants are tied to the flight schedule — they open early in the morning and close after the departure of the last evening flight.

To ensure your journey through Owen Roberts International Airport in George Town goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. This airport is the main air gateway of the Cayman Islands, and although it is not very large, it can be quite crowded during peak season.

Arrival Time and Check-in: We recommend arriving at the airport 2.5-3 hours before the departure of international flights. This will give you sufficient time to calmly complete all formalities. To save time, complete online check-in for your flight if your airline provides such an option. This will allow you to proceed immediately to baggage drop or security screening if you are travelling only with hand luggage.

Security Checks and Hand Luggage: The security checkpoint operates according to standard international rules. Liquids can be carried in containers up to 100 ml, packed in a transparent bag. Remember that the export of certain items, such as unprocessed coral or shells, may be restricted. Always clarify the rules with your airline and the customs service. When choosing a seat on the plane, especially on daytime flights, prefer a window seat — unforgettable views of the turquoise Caribbean Sea and the island itself will open up to you.

Customs Control and Transfers: Upon arrival, you will need to fill out an immigration and customs declaration, so keep your passport and the address of your hotel or accommodation handy. Owen Roberts Airport is compact, so transfers between flights usually proceed quickly. Watch the information screens carefully so as not to miss your next flight.

Saving Time and Money: A pre-booked transfer or taxi often works out cheaper than finding a car on the spot. There are Duty-Free shops at the airport where you can purchase souvenirs or refreshments, but prices for food and drinks in cafes can be high, so it is better to take a light snack with you or eat before arriving at the airport.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, contact your airline representative for information regarding compensation (for example, meal vouchers). The airport has Wi-Fi, cafes, and comfortable waiting areas where you can spend time. Remain calm and monitor updates on the information screens and the airline's website.