Cap Haitien Airport

Cap-Haïtien International Airport (IATA: CAP), officially known as Hugo Chávez International Airport, is the second most significant airport in Haiti. Located on the country's northern coast, it serves as the main aerial gateway for tourists and residents heading to the historical and cultural centre of Haiti. The airport is the starting point for exploring iconic landmarks such as the Citadelle Laferrière and Sans-Souci Palace, both listed as UNESCO World Heritage sites.

Despite its modest size, Cap-Haïtien Airport plays a key role in the transport system of the northern region. It serves both domestic flights, linking the north with Port-au-Prince, and important international routes, primarily to US cities (such as Fort Lauderdale and Miami) and neighbouring Caribbean islands, including Turks and Caicos, the Bahamas, and Guadeloupe. For travellers, this is a convenient and fast way to reach the northern coast of Haiti, bypassing the capital region. The airport infrastructure includes all essential services required for a comfortable wait for your flight, and its proximity to the city of Cap-Haïtien makes transfers quick and affordable.

Finding up-to-date and direct contact information for Cap-Haïtien Airport can be challenging. Most flight-related issues are resolved through the airlines. Below are the main available details.

• Official Website: Currently, the airport does not have its own dedicated website. General information is managed by the National Airport Authority of Haiti (AAN), but their online resources are limited.
• Help Desk Phone: A direct public help desk phone number is either unavailable or difficult to verify. For information regarding flight status, schedules, and other flight-related queries, it is strongly recommended to contact your airline directly.
• Airport Address: Route Nationale #6, Cap-Haïtien, Haïti.
• Email: There is no specialised email address for passengers. All communications should be conducted through the air carrier.
• Social Media: Official, regularly updated social media pages for the airport are not maintained. The most reliable information is provided by airlines on their own resources.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost, delayed, or damaged baggage, you must contact exclusively the Lost & Found service of the airline you travelled with.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Support regarding booking, check-in, special needs, and other travel aspects is provided directly by airline representatives.

Getting to Cap-Haïtien International Airport (CAP) from the city centre of Cap-Haïtien is quite simple, as it is located just a few kilometres away. The journey usually takes 10-20 minutes depending on traffic conditions. The main modes of transport for tourists are taxis, car rentals, and colourful local transport.

The most convenient and recommended option for travellers is a taxi or a pre-booked transfer. In the city, you will find both regular taxi cars and more budget-friendly moto-taxis. The latter are suitable for solo passengers with light luggage but may be less safe. Key point: always agree on the fare before the trip begins, as meters are practically unused here. A taxi ride from the city centre will cost approximately 10-20 US dollars. For maximum peace of mind, you can book a transfer through your hotel — this will be more expensive, but the price will be fixed, and the car's arrival is guaranteed.

If you are looking for an authentic and the cheapest way to travel, look out for "tap-taps". These are brightly painted pickup trucks or buses that serve as the main public transport in Haiti. A ride on them costs mere pennies, but they are often overcrowded, and their routes may not be obvious to a tourist. This option is suitable for adventure seekers but is not very convenient if you have a lot of luggage and are in a hurry to catch a flight.

Car rental provides maximum freedom of movement but comes with certain difficulties. Driving in Cap-Haïtien requires confidence and experience due to chaotic traffic and road conditions that are not always ideal. The airport has a parking area where you can leave a car for both short and long periods. However, as in many places, it is not recommended to leave valuables unattended in the vehicle.

Cap-Haïtien International Airport Cap-Haïtien (CAP) is a compact and functional aviation hub serving the northern region of Haiti. The airport consists of one terminal, which is used for all flights, including international and domestic ones. Thanks to this, its structure is very simple, and navigation causes no difficulties even for first-time visitors.

The terminal layout is intuitive. The building is effectively divided into two main parts: the departure zone and the arrival zone. Upon entry, you find yourself in a general hall with airline check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass and checking in luggage, passengers proceed to passport control and security checkpoints, which lead to the waiting lounge with boarding gates. Since there is only one terminal, there is no need to transfer between different buildings — everything is within walking distance.

The arrival zone is organised just as simply. Passengers arriving in Cap-Haïtien proceed first to immigration control after disembarking, and then to the baggage claim hall. After passing customs, they exit into the general terminal area. The features of the terminal lie in its compactness and minimalism; there are basic amenities here, such as a small café, several shops with souvenirs and essential goods, as well as restrooms.

Although the airport is small, the time taken to complete all procedures can be unpredictable. On days when several flights are scheduled consecutively, queues may form at check-in and security. Therefore, the standard recommendation is to arrive at the airport at least 2–3 hours before an international flight. This will allow you to complete all formalities without rushing and find your gate. Overall, navigating Cap-Haïtien Airport presents no difficulty thanks to clear signage and the linear layout of the terminal.

The history of Cap-Haïtien Airport (CAP) is inextricably linked to the northern region of Haiti's desire for development and greater accessibility. Founded in the mid-20th century as a small airfield, it long served primarily domestic flights and private aviation, connecting the country's second-largest city with the capital. In those years, it was a modest runway with minimal infrastructure.

A key moment in the airport's history was the large-scale modernisation that began in the 2010s. This project aimed to transform the regional airfield into a full-fledged international airport. The main task was extending and strengthening the runway — from 1,800 to 2,650 metres. This allowed it to accommodate medium-haul aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737, operating flights from the USA, Canada, and Caribbean nations.

The grand opening of the renovated airport took place in 2013. In appreciation of the financial assistance for reconstruction provided by Venezuela, the airport was officially renamed Hugo Chávez International Airport. Despite this, in international booking systems and among travellers, it remains widely known by its geographical name — Cap-Haïtien Airport.

One of the significant, albeit tragic, moments in its history was its role as a hub for humanitarian aid following the 2010 earthquake. When the airport in Port-au-Prince was overloaded, Cap-Haïtien accepted a portion of international flights carrying doctors and cargo. Today, the airport's main achievement is its transformation from a provincial airfield into an important transport hub, opening the historical and cultural treasures of northern Haiti to the world.

Cap-Haïtien International Airport (CAP), being the second largest in Haiti, provides passengers with all necessary services for a comfortable journey. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-organised and ready to offer both basic and additional amenities.

For those wishing to have a snack before their flight, the airport has several cafés and snack bars offering local dishes, sandwiches, pastries, and beverages. In the departure zone, you will find shops where you can buy souvenirs, local specialties, coffee, and items from local artisans, as well as a small Duty-Free shop for tax-free purchases.

For a more comfortable wait, passengers can utilise the services of the VIP Lounge. It offers a secluded atmosphere, comfortable seating, complimentary snacks and drinks, as well as the latest press. Wireless internet (Wi-Fi) is available throughout the terminal. There are power outlets for charging electronic devices in the waiting halls, though their number may be limited, so it is recommended to carry a portable power bank.

The airport building houses currency exchange points and ATMs where travellers can withdraw cash or exchange money for the local currency — the Haitian gourde. In case of unforeseen health situations, a medical point operates at the airport, ready to provide first aid.

Basic amenities are provided for passengers with children, such as changing tables in the restrooms. Travellers with reduced mobility are offered staff assistance, and the terminal itself is equipped with ramps and accessible toilets. To receive special assistance, such as a wheelchair, it is recommended to contact your airline in advance.

There are no specialised business centres or conference rooms at the airport, however, a quiet place to work can be found in the VIP Lounge. There are also no hotels within the airport grounds, but in close proximity, in the city of Cap-Haïtien, there are numerous accommodation options, many of which offer transfers for their guests.

Dining options at Cap-Haïtien International Airport (CAP) reflect its modest size. One should not expect a large food court with global chains here, but grabbing a snack or a coffee before departure is certainly possible. Mostly, food outlets are represented by small cafés and kiosks.

In the main terminal area, typically before security control (landside), you can find a small café serving drinks and light snacks. The main establishments are concentrated in the departure zone (airside), after passport control. Here, passengers awaiting their flight can find places to sit and order something more substantial.

What local cuisine is worth trying? Look out for Haitian patties (pâté) with various fillings — this is an excellent option for a quick and filling snack. The menu may also feature simple dishes inspired by the cuisine of Haiti, for example, chicken with rice and beans. regarding beverages, besides standard coffee and sodas, you can sometimes find local tropical fruit juices.

Passengers with strict dietary restrictions (vegans, vegetarians, those requiring Halal options, or gluten intolerance) should be prepared for a limited selection. There are no specialised cafés here, but simple options such as fruit or vegetable salads can be found on the menu. It is recommended to bring suitable snacks with you to avoid inconvenience.

Prices at the airport are generally higher than in the city but remain moderate. The opening hours of catering establishments are directly linked to the flight schedule — they open a few hours before the first departure and close after the last plane leaves. For a quick snack, the aforementioned patties or sandwiches are ideal. If you have time for a full meal, the best you can expect is a simple hot dish like chicken with a side in the café in the departure zone.

To ensure your journey through the airport of Cap-Haïtien goes as smoothly as possible, make use of our tips. This is a small international airport, so knowing certain nuances will help save time and reduce stress. The main rule is to allocate more time for all procedures than you would in major hubs.

Arrival Time and Check-in. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2.5-3 hours before departure. Have all documents ready: passport, ticket, and visa if necessary. If your airline offers online check-in, be sure to use this opportunity to select a seat in advance and avoid queues at the counter.

Security Control and Hand Luggage. Rules for carrying hand luggage are standard: liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml each (packed in a transparent bag), no sharp objects or flammable substances. Always place valuable items, documents, necessary medication, and a portable charger in your hand luggage. Screening procedures may take time, so follow staff instructions and be patient.

Customs Control. Upon entering Haiti, you will need to complete a customs declaration. Declare all goods subject to declaration honestly. Customs officers may ask questions about the purpose of your trip and place of accommodation. Be polite and answer questions calmly. Upon departure, be prepared for baggage checks regarding the export of cultural valuables or prohibited items.

Connections and Saving Money. Cap-Haïtien Airport is rarely used as a major transfer hub. If you do have a connecting flight, verify with the airline in advance whether you need to collect and re-check your luggage. To save money, weigh your suitcases at home to avoid excess baggage fees. Bring a light snack and an empty water bottle, which can be filled after passing security control.

Flight Delays. In the event of a flight delay, remain calm. First, contact your airline representative for information on the flight status and your rights as a passenger. Since the airport infrastructure is limited, it is useful to have a book, a charged laptop, or a power bank with you to pass the waiting time.