Les Cayes

Antoine-Simon Airport, the air gateway to the charming coastal city of Les Cayes, is a key transport hub on the southern peninsula of Haiti. It is not merely a point on the map, but a symbol of new opportunities for the entire region. In early 2024, the airport received international status, opening direct routes for travellers wishing to explore the south of the country. As the fourth-largest airport in Haiti, it offers a safer and more convenient alternative for arriving in this part of the nation.

Despite its modest size, Antoine-Simon Airport, named after the 18th president of Haiti, plays a crucial role in the development of the southern region. Recent modernisation included extending the runway to 1,850 metres, allowing it to accommodate aircraft with a capacity of up to 80 passengers. This makes it attractive not only for scheduled and charter flights from the capital, Port-au-Prince, but also for future international routes. For travellers, this means faster and more direct access to the picturesque beaches, nature parks, and cultural attractions of southern Haiti, bypassing the busy capital.

We have gathered the essential contact information for Antoine-Simon Airport (CYA) in Les Cayes for you. Please note that this is a small regional airport, and some data may only be available through Haiti's central aviation authorities.

• Official Website: At present, Les Cayes Airport does not have a separate official website. General information about the country's airports can be found on the resources of the National Airport Authority of Haiti (Autorité Aéroportuaire Nationale - AAN).
• Information Desk Phone: Finding a direct phone number for the airport is difficult. For general enquiries, it is recommended to contact the National Airport Authority of Haiti (AAN) at: +509 2812 9400.
• Airport Address: Route de l'Aéroport, Les Cayes, Haiti.
• Email: You can try contacting representatives via the general email of the National Airport Authority of Haiti: info@aan.gouv.ht.
• Social Media: There are no specialised social media pages for the airport.
• Lost Luggage Information: All issues related to lost or damaged luggage are handled directly by airline representatives. Please contact your carrier's support service.
• Passenger Support Contacts: Support regarding tickets, schedules, and flight check-in is provided by airline staff directly within the airport building.

Reaching the airport in the city of Les Cayes, one of the key transport hubs in southern Haiti, is possible via several methods. The airport is located close to the city centre, so the journey will not take much time; however, the choice of transport depends on your budget, amount of luggage, and desired level of comfort.

Taxi, Moto-taxi, and Transfers. The most convenient and predictable way to get to the airport is by taxi. You can order a car through your hotel or find one in the city. The trip from the centre of Les Cayes to the airport usually takes 15–25 minutes. It is extremely important to agree on the fare with the driver in advance, as taximeters are rarely used. An even more common and budget-friendly option is the moto-taxi. This is a quick way to move around, but it is suitable only for solo travellers with light luggage. For maximum convenience, you can book a private transfer in advance.

Public Transport. In Les Cayes, as across all of Haiti, the main mode of public transport is the "tap-tap". These are brightly painted pickup trucks or buses that ply specific routes without a strict schedule. This is the cheapest way to travel and a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in local culture. However, be prepared for the cabin to be crowded, and the journey may take longer due to frequent stops. Check with locals to see which "tap-tap" is heading towards the airport.

Car Rental and Parking. If you prefer independence, you can rent a car. This will give you the freedom to move not only around the city but also the surrounding areas. The road to the airport is well-known, and navigation will not be difficult. The airport has parking where you can leave a car for both short and long periods. However, it is worth noting that parking conditions may be basic. Car rental is the most expensive option, suitable for experienced drivers accustomed to the peculiarities of local traffic.

Les Cayes Airport (CYA) is a small regional airport that primarily serves domestic flights. Its structure is very simple, making navigation intuitively clear even for those visiting for the first time. The airport operates one passenger terminal, which is a compact building handling all operations.

The terminal layout is extremely straightforward. Since there is only one building, it combines all necessary zones: check-in counters, a small waiting area, a security screening zone, as well as the arrival and baggage claim area. There are no complex passageways, multi-level structures, or separate terminals for domestic and international flights. Everything is within walking distance, and getting lost is practically impossible.

The departure and arrival zones are located in the same building and often represent different parts of the same hall. After checking in for a flight, passengers proceed to a common waiting area before boarding. Check-in and security procedures generally proceed very quickly due to the low passenger traffic. Nevertheless, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately one hour before departure to complete all formalities without rushing.

The main advice for navigating Les Cayes Airport is not to worry about complex maps. Its compact dimensions and simple layout make it one of the easiest for orientation. Staff are always ready to help, and signs, where present, lead to the only possible points—check-in counters, security screening, and the boarding gate.

The history of Antoine-Simon Airport in Les Cayes is closely linked to its role as an important transport hub in southern Haiti. Although the exact date of the airport's founding is not widely known, it is named after François Antoine Simon, the President of Haiti from 1908 to 1911, who hailed from this region. For many years, it functioned as a basic airstrip serving mainly domestic flights and private aviation.

A key moment in the airport's history came with tragic events. Its strategic importance was particularly highlighted during and after the devastating earthquake of 2010 and, to an even greater extent, after the earthquake in August 2021, the epicentre of which was near Les Cayes. During these periods, the airport transformed into a vital humanitarian hub. It facilitated the delivery of food and medicine, the evacuation of the wounded, and the deployment of rescue teams, as land communication with Port-au-Prince was difficult or destroyed.

These events served as an impetus for the airport's modernisation. One of the most critical stages was the asphalting of the runway, which had remained unpaved for a long time. This allowed for the reception of larger aircraft and an increase in flight frequency, which is critical for both passenger transport and emergency situations. Thus, the history of Les Cayes Airport is not so much a story of records and commercial achievements, but a story of transformation from a modest airfield into an indispensable infrastructure facility playing a key role in the life of the country's entire southern region.

Antoine-Simon Airport (CYA) in the city of Les Cayes is a small regional airport serving mainly domestic flights. The infrastructure and range of services here are basic and correspond to its size. Passengers should prepare in advance for limited amenities.

In the terminal building, you will find a general waiting hall. There are no specialised VIP lounges here. Shopping and dining options are minimal: usually, a small kiosk or café operates where you can buy light snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. Do not count on the presence of duty-free shops or a wide selection of restaurants. Currency exchange points and ATMs are absent at the airport, so it is recommended to arrange currency exchange in the city beforehand.

Access to Wi-Fi at the airport may be unstable or non-existent, and the number of power outlets for charging electronic devices is limited. Travellers are advised to carry a portable power bank. For passengers with special needs or those travelling with small children, specialised services such as mother and child rooms or play areas are not provided. Passengers with reduced mobility should contact their airline in advance to organise necessary assistance upon arrival and when boarding the flight.

There are no hotels, business centres, or conference rooms on the airport grounds. The nearest accommodation options are located in the city of Les Cayes itself, which can be reached by taxi. Medical assistance is limited to the provision of basic first aid; in case of serious issues, it is necessary to contact medical facilities in the city.

When planning a flight from Les Cayes Airport (CYA), it is important to consider that this is a small regional airport, and the choice of catering establishments here is very limited. The airport's infrastructure is primarily focused on ensuring basic pre-flight formalities rather than providing a wide range of services.

Typically, one or several small kiosks or snack bars operate within the terminal building. Here, passengers can purchase basic snacks such as crisps and biscuits, as well as bottled water, carbonated drinks, and juices. Sometimes, simple local dishes, such as pastries or sandwiches, may be found in the assortment, but one should not count on a full hot meal.

Specialised dietary options, such as vegetarian, gluten-free, or Halal meals, are likely unavailable at Les Cayes Airport. If you require Halal food or have other specific dietary needs, it is highly recommended to bring food with you or have a meal at one of the cafés in the city of Les Cayes before travelling to the airport.

All dining points are located in the public area (before security control) and operate on a flexible schedule, usually tied to flight times. Therefore, if you are looking for a place for a full lunch, it is better to do so in advance, and view the airport as an opportunity to buy drinks or a very light snack before departure.

To ensure your journey through the airport in Les Cayes goes as smoothly as possible, make use of these helpful tips. As this is a small and cosy airport, all formalities here usually proceed quickly, allowing you to start your adventure in Haiti without unnecessary stress.

Arrival Time at the Airport: Thanks to its compact size and quick service, arriving long before departure is not required. It is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1–1.5 hours before your flight departs. This time will be quite sufficient to calmly check in your luggage and pass through security.

Check-in and Security: If possible, complete online check-in in advance. Have your ID and ticket ready at the airport. Security screening procedures here typically proceed quickly and without long queues, which is a great advantage of small airports.

Seat Selection: If the airline provides the option to select a seat, consider your preferences. A window seat will offer you breathtaking views of the coast during takeoff and landing. An aisle seat ensures more convenience if you need to get up during a short flight.

Hand Luggage: Standard security rules apply here as well: liquids in containers larger than 100 ml and sharp objects are prohibited in hand luggage. Always keep your most valuable items with you: documents, money, electronics, and necessary medication.

Transfer Passengers: If you have a connecting flight to another city in the country, verify with the airline in advance whether you will need to collect and re-check your luggage. Leave sufficient time between flights in case of minor schedule changes.

Saving Time and Money: Book flight tickets and airport transfers online in advance to get the best prices. To avoid excess baggage fees, weigh your luggage at home. Bring an empty water bottle that can be filled after security, along with light snacks.

In Case of Flight Delay: If your flight is delayed, contact your airline representative for the latest information. Remain calm and use this time to rest or plan the first hours of your holiday.