Rafael Hernandez Airport

Rafael Hernández Airport is not merely an air gateway to the western part of Puerto Rico, but a destination rich in history. Located near the city of Aguadilla, it is the country's second-busiest airport and a key transport hub for tourists seeking to discover the picturesque Porta del Sol ("Gateway to the Sun") region. Originally built as a military airbase, today it successfully combines passenger flight services with a vital role as a cargo hub. The airport boasts the longest runway in the Caribbean, allowing it to accommodate various aircraft types.

Features and Advantages of the Airport

Rafael Hernández Airport offers passengers all necessary amenities despite its relatively small size. Its terminal has been expanded and modernised to handle growing passenger traffic. One of the airport's main advantages is its strategic location, providing easy access to popular tourist spots on the west coast, such as Rincón, Isabela, and Cabo Rojo. Furthermore, the airport is an important centre for cargo transport, contributing to the region's economic development. Further infrastructure modernisation is planned for the future, which will make travelling through Aguadilla even more comfortable.

Below you will find the main contact information for Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN) to help you plan your trip.

• Official Website: Current information about the airport can be found on the official page of the Puerto Rico Ports Authority, which manages the airport.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 (787) 890-6075. You can contact the airport administration at this number for general information.
• Airport Address: 400 Hangar Rd, Aguadilla, 00603, Puerto Rico.
• Email: An official public email address for contacting the airport is not provided. It is recommended to use the telephone for urgent enquiries.
• Airport Social Media: At present, the airport does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all matters regarding lost or damaged luggage, please contact your airline's representative directly. If you have left personal items within the terminal building, please contact the airport administration.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For assistance and enquiries related to your stay at the airport, please contact the main information desk number: +1 (787) 890-6075.

Getting to Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN) from the city of Aguadilla and its surroundings is possible in several ways, although the choice depends heavily on your budget and travel plans. The simplest and fastest option is a taxi or pre-booked transfer. The journey from the city centre to the terminal will take just 15–20 minutes. This is a convenient, though more expensive method, especially if you are travelling with a large amount of luggage. It is recommended to confirm the fare with the driver before departure.

For tourists who value freedom of movement and wish to explore the picturesque west coast of Puerto Rico, the best solution would be car rental. Offices of many well-known rental companies are located right at the airport, making it easy to pick up or drop off a vehicle before your flight. Having your own transport will allow you to easily reach beaches, attractions, and neighbouring cities. To guarantee vehicle availability and secure a favourable rate, it is worth booking in advance, especially during the peak tourist season.

As for public transport, it is the least convenient option. Unfortunately, there are no direct bus or train routes to the airport. Although shared taxis known as "públicos" operate on the island, they do not have a strict schedule, and their routes may be inconvenient for tourists rushing to catch a flight. Using this mode of transport for trips to the airport, particularly with luggage, is not recommended.

If you are travelling to the airport by personal or rented car, parking on the airport territory is at your service, offering both short-term and long-term parking options. Ultimately, the choice of transport comes down to two main options: a taxi for a quick and hassle-free journey, or a rented car for maximum flexibility during your stay.

Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN), located in the city of Aguadilla within Puerto Rico, is distinguished by a simple and passenger-friendly structure. The airport operates one main passenger terminal that serves all flights—both domestic and international. This makes navigation intuitively clear and eliminates the need to move between different buildings.

The terminal follows a standard two-level layout. The Departure Zone is located on the upper level and includes airline check-in counters and the security checkpoint, after which passengers enter the waiting hall with boarding gates. The Arrival Zone is on the lower level, housing baggage claim belts, customs control for international flights, and car rental counters.

Since there is only one terminal, transitions between zones are made on foot within a single building, simplifying logistics. After passing security, you will find yourself in a common waiting hall where all boarding gates are located. Despite its compact size, the terminal is equipped with basic amenities: there are several cafes where you can have a snack, and small shops.

Check-in and security procedures at BQN usually take less time than in major metropolises. Nevertheless, standard recommendations remain valid: it is advisable to arrive approximately 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international one. This time will be sufficient to check in luggage, pass security, and find your gate without haste.

To navigate the airport, simply follow the clear and understandable signs in Spanish and English. Thanks to the logical layout and short distances, it is practically impossible to get lost here. All key points—from the entrance to the gate—are within walking distance, making the stay at Rafael Hernández Airport comfortable and predictable.

The history of Rafael Hernández Airport in the city of Aguadilla is a fascinating narrative of transformation from a strategic military facility into a vital civil aviation hub for Puerto Rico. Its past is still evident in its scale, making it one of the most unique airports in the Caribbean.

The airport was founded in 1939 by the US Army and was originally named Borinquen Field. During World War II, it played a key role in patrolling the Atlantic to detect submarines. However, it reached its peak during the Cold War era, when it was renamed Ramey Air Force Base. In those years, strategic B-52 bombers were based here, and the base was one of the most important outposts of the US Strategic Air Command.

With the end of the Vietnam War and reductions in the US military budget, Ramey Air Force Base was closed in 1973. The massive infrastructure was transferred to the government of Puerto Rico, which decided to convert it into a civil airport to serve the island's western region. Soon, the airport received its current name in honour of Rafael Hernández Marín—one of the greatest composers in the history of Puerto Rico, symbolising the transition from a military past to a peaceful future.

In subsequent decades, Rafael Hernández Airport gradually developed. A significant boost to growth occurred in the 2000s with the arrival of major American airlines, including low-cost carriers such as JetBlue. This made Puerto Rico's west coast, known for its surfing beaches, much more accessible to tourists. Parallelly, the airport became an important cargo hub for the Caribbean region, particularly for FedEx Express.

The main pride and an interesting fact from the airport's history is its runway. Its length is 3,444 metres (11,300 feet), making it one of the longest in the Caribbean. This runway is a direct legacy of the Cold War, when it was built to accommodate heavy bombers. Due to its size, Rafael Hernández Airport was even certified by NASA as an alternate landing site for space shuttles, although no shuttle ever landed here.

Today, Aguadilla Airport continues to modernise, serving a growing flow of passengers and cargo. It stands as a vivid example of how a facility with a rich military past can successfully adapt and become a key gateway for tourism and economic development in the region.

Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN), located in the city of Aguadilla on the west coast of Puerto Rico, offers passengers all necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is well-equipped and designed for traveller convenience.

For those wishing to have a snack or make purchases, the airport has several cafes and restaurants offering both local and international dishes. There are also shops where you can purchase souvenirs, travel goods, and products in the Duty Free zone. Passengers seeking greater comfort may utilise the VIP lounge services, which offer a more secluded atmosphere.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected or work while waiting for departure. Special stations and sockets are provided in the waiting halls for charging electronic devices. For financial matters, ATMs are installed in the airport, and a currency exchange point is available.

The airport cares for the comfort of all passenger categories. Rooms for mothers and children are equipped for travellers with little ones. Passengers with reduced mobility can count on staff assistance, as well as use ramps and specially equipped restrooms. A first aid station is available in the airport should the need arise.

Although there are no hotels on the airport territory itself, several hotels of various price categories are located in the immediate vicinity, which can be quickly reached by taxi. Specialised conference halls are not provided in the terminal, however, basic conditions for work, such as internet access, allow for handling urgent business tasks.

Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN) is a compact and convenient hub where dining options are concentrated mainly in the secure zone, allowing passengers to have a comfortable snack while waiting for their flight. Although the selection here is not as vast as in major international hubs, you will easily find both a substantial meal and a quick bite.

The main place for a full meal is located after passing security (airside). Here, you will find La Casona Restaurant & Bar, where you can get acquainted with Puerto Rican cuisine. This is an excellent opportunity to try local dishes, such as mofongo, or simply order classic sandwiches and salads. Starbucks also operates in the departure zone—a reliable option for those who prefer familiar coffee, pastries, and light snacks.

For a quick snack, the airport has several kiosks and small shops, such as El Market. They sell ready-made sandwiches, crisps, sweets, and beverages. This is an ideal choice if there is little time left before departure. In the zone before security (landside), the selection is extremely limited, so it is recommended to plan your meal after check-in and inspection.

Regarding special dietary needs, finding vegetarian, vegan, or gluten-free dishes can be difficult. At La Casona, you can check the ingredients of dishes with the staff—sometimes it is possible to adapt an order. However, if you have strict dietary restrictions, it is safer to bring food with you. Dining prices are at an average level for airports. Most establishments operate according to the flight schedule, opening a few hours before the first departures and closing after the last aircraft depart.

To ensure your journey through Rafael Hernández Airport (BQN) in the city of Aguadilla goes smoothly and without unnecessary worry, make use of our tips. These recommendations will help you better prepare for your flight and avoid unpleasant surprises.

Arrival Time at the Airport: Although Rafael Hernández Airport is smaller than the main airport in San Juan, queues can occur here too, especially during peak hours and the tourist season. For international flights, it is recommended to arrive 2.5–3 hours before departure, and for domestic ones (to the US mainland) — 1.5–2 hours. This will give you enough time to check in, drop off luggage, and pass security control without haste.

Check-in and Security: To save time, complete online check-in for your flight on your airline's website. Security control here complies with TSA (US Transportation Security Administration) standards. Ensure that all liquids in your hand luggage are in containers no larger than 100 ml and packed in a single transparent bag.

Seat Selection: If you wish to enjoy picturesque views of the Puerto Rico coast during take-off or landing, choose a window seat. Aisle seats are more convenient if you plan to stand up often during the flight or wish to exit the aircraft among the first.

Hand Luggage: Check the hand luggage regulations of your airline, as they may differ in weight and size. Popular souvenirs, such as local beverages, may only be transported in checked luggage. Electronics and valuables should always be in hand luggage.

Connecting Passengers: Aguadilla Airport mainly serves direct flights and is not a major transfer hub. If you have a self-transfer (tickets purchased separately), allow sufficient time between flights. You will likely need to collect your luggage and go through check-in and security control again.

Customs Control: Since Puerto Rico is a US territory, flights between Aguadilla and the US mainland are considered domestic, so there is no need to pass customs and passport control. Standard international rules apply when flying to or arriving from other countries.

Saving Time and Money:

• Book a rental car in advance online — this is often cheaper.
• Bring an empty reusable water bottle to fill after passing security control.
• Pack light snacks to avoid spending money on food at the airport.

In Case of Flight Delay: There are several cafes and waiting areas in the airport, but the choice of entertainment is limited. In case of delay, monitor updates via your airline's mobile app and on information boards. It is useful to carry a portable charger for gadgets, a book, or downloaded films to pass the waiting time.