Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport

Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport is not merely a transport hub, but a true portal to a world of serenity and Caribbean exoticism. Here, far from the hustle and bustle of giant aviation hubs, your journey across the island of Vieques begins with a warm tropical breeze right on the runway. From the very first minutes, this cosy terminal sets a relaxed tone, promising unforgettable impressions from your encounter with the unique nature of Puerto Rico. The small size of the terminal creates an almost home-like atmosphere, where every passenger feels like a welcome guest.

Airport Features and Advantages

The main advantage of this air harbour is the absence of stress. Thanks to the terminal's compactness, the journey from the aircraft stairs to the city exit takes mere minutes, and security procedures upon departure are quick and without endless queues. This allows tourists to use their holiday time most effectively, without wasting hours on bureaucratic formalities.

Another striking feature of the airport is the scenic approach for landing. Flying on the small aircraft serviced here turns into a separate excursion: the view from the window reveals breathtaking vistas of the turquoise Caribbean waters, the island's green hills, and famous beaches. For many travellers, this visual experience becomes one of the most vivid memories of the trip.

Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport plays the role of a vital artery for the island. It ensures a reliable and fast connection with the "mainland" (the island of Puerto Rico), allowing you to reach San Juan or Ceiba in just 15–30 minutes of flight. This makes it an ideal choice both for those planning a long holiday on Vieques and for tourists wishing to visit the island as part of a day trip.

For your convenience, we have compiled the main contact information for Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport.

• Official Website: The airport does not have a separate official website. It is managed by the Puerto Rico Ports Authority (Autoridad de los Puertos de Puerto Rico). It is best to check current flight information on airline websites.
• Information Desk Phone: +1 787-741-8358
• Address: State Rd 200, km 3.2, Vieques, 00765, Puerto Rico
• Email: An official email address for general enquiries is not published. It is recommended to use the telephone for communication.
• Social Media: The airport does not maintain official pages on social networks.
• Lost Luggage Information: For all issues related to lost or damaged luggage, please contact the airline directly whose services you used.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For reference information, you can use the main airport phone number or speak to airline representatives directly in the terminal.

Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport (VQS) serves as the main air gateway to the charming island of Vieques, which is part of Puerto Rico. Most travellers arrive here via short flights from Luis Muñoz Marín International Airport (SJU) in San Juan or the neighbouring Ceiba Airport (NRR). Getting to the VQS terminal from the main tourist zones of Vieques, such as Isabel Segunda or Esperanza, is quite simple, although transport options differ from those typical in large cities. A trip from any of these points usually takes no more than 10-15 minutes.

Taxi and Transfer — the simplest and most convenient method. Taxis on the island are easy to find at the ferry terminal, in tourist centres, or can be ordered by phone through your hotel. The cost of a trip to the airport is usually $15-25 depending on your location and the number of passengers. This is an excellent choice if you value comfort and are travelling with luggage. A pre-booked transfer guarantees a fixed price and timely vehicle arrival.

The role of public transport on Vieques is fulfilled by públicos — shared taxis or minibuses. This is the most budget-friendly option, with a trip costing just a few dollars per person. However, it is worth noting that they do not have a strict schedule and may make stops along the way to pick up other passengers. If you choose a público, allow extra time for the journey to avoid missing your flight.

Car Rental — the most popular choice among tourists wishing to explore the island freely. On Vieques, you can rent a jeep, a golf cart, or a standard car. By renting transport for the duration of your stay, you can not only easily reach the airport but also visit secluded beaches and picturesque corners of the island. It is recommended to book a car in advance, especially during the high tourist season. Most rental companies are located near the airport or offer a vehicle delivery service to your hotel.

Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport has a small car park. It is suitable for those who have arrived in their own or a rented car to see someone off or meet them. Leaving a car here for a long term is also possible, but it is better to check the conditions and cost in advance with the airport administration or your rental company.

Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport (VQS) is a small and convenient airport serving the island of Vieques. Its key feature is a single passenger terminal, which makes navigation extremely simple and intuitive. This compact terminal handles all flights, mostly connecting Vieques with the main island of Puerto Rico. It is practically impossible to get lost here, which is especially appreciated by tourists arriving for a holiday.

All airport infrastructure is located in one building, so transfers between zones are not required. The terminal layout is very simple: upon entering, you will immediately see the airline check-in counters. After receiving a boarding pass, passengers proceed to a single security checkpoint. The departure area consists of a general waiting hall with boarding gates. The arrival area is located here as well and includes a baggage claim belt. Due to its compactness, the walk from the airport entrance to the gate takes mere minutes.

Completing all pre-flight formalities at Vieques airport usually does not take much time. Check-in and security procedures are significantly faster than in large hub airports. As a rule, it is recommended to arrive at the airport 60–90 minutes before departure, but during periods of low traffic, you can manage everything in half an hour. Nevertheless, it is always better to check your airline's recommendations in advance.

The main advice for navigation at Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport is not to worry. There are no confusing corridors, multiple levels, or the need for shuttles between terminals. All you need to do is follow the simple signs. The entire journey from check-in to boarding the flight is intuitive and takes place within one small and cosy space, making the start or end of your journey to Vieques as comfortable as possible.

The history of Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport is closely intertwined with the modern history of the island of Vieques itself, part of Puerto Rico. The air harbour has gone from a military facility to a key civilian transport hub, playing an important role in the economic and social development of this Caribbean paradise.

Originally, the airport was built by the US Navy and was used for military purposes for decades. A turning point in its history was the year 2003. After the cessation of military exercises on the island and the departure of the US Navy, the facility was transferred to the management of the Puerto Rico Ports Authority. This event opened a new chapter for Vieques, making it more accessible to tourists and strengthening the link with the main island.

The airport received its current name in honour of Antonio Rivera Rodriguez, a significant figure for the local community. He was a leader who tirelessly fought for the rights and well-being of the island's residents. Renaming the airport became a tribute to his contribution to the development of Vieques and his legacy.

One of the most important milestones in the airport's development was its large-scale modernisation. In 2014, a new, modern passenger terminal was opened. This spacious and comfortable building replaced the old, more modest structure, which significantly improved the quality of passenger service and increased the capacity of the island's air gates.

The airport has repeatedly proven its strategic importance at critical moments for the island. For example, it served as a vital artery after the devastating Hurricane Maria in 2017, ensuring the delivery of humanitarian aid, medicines, and personnel for recovery work. Its role as a link with the outside world in emergency situations cannot be overestimated.

Interesting fact: the transformation of the airport from a purely military airfield into a fully civilian facility symbolises profound changes in the life of the entire island. Today, Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport is not just a runway, but a crucial element of infrastructure supporting tourism and ensuring reliable connection with the world for the residents of Vieques.

Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport (VQS) is a small regional airport serving the island of Vieques in Puerto Rico. Given its compact size and focus on short domestic flights, the range of services here is basic and designed to meet the essential needs of passengers before departure.

Restaurants and Shops: The choice of dining establishments at the airport is very limited. Typically, you can find a small kiosk or vending machines offering soft drinks, coffee, and light snacks. There are no full-service restaurants or duty-free shops in the terminal, so it is worth taking care of buying souvenirs or having a substantial meal in advance.

Wi-Fi and Waiting Areas: A general waiting hall with benches is available for passengers. There are no specialised VIP lounges for frequent flyers. Access to Wi-Fi may be limited or unavailable; it is recommended to check availability on-site. The number of power outlets for charging electronic devices is also small, so it is better to have a portable charger with you.

Financial and Medical Services: There are no bank branches, currency exchange points, or ATMs in the airport building. It is recommended to perform all financial transactions in the island's towns before arriving at the airport. There is no specialised medical point, but airport staff are ready to provide basic first aid and call emergency services if necessary.

Facilities for Passengers with Special Needs: The terminal is equipped for access by passengers with reduced mobility, including ramps and restrooms. However, for assistance with boarding and moving around the airport, it is strongly recommended to contact the airline in advance. There are no special play areas for passengers with children, but restrooms may have changing tables.

Accommodation and Business Services: There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options can be found throughout the island of Vieques, a few minutes' drive from the terminal. Conference rooms, business centres, and other similar services are not provided at Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport.

When planning a departure from Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport, it is important to understand that this is a very small regional airport, serving mainly short flights to the main island of Puerto Rico. Consequently, the choice of dining establishments here is extremely limited and not comparable to large international hubs.

Typically, there is only one small establishment operating in the airport building — a café or snack bar. It is located in the main waiting area after passing security control (airside). There is no division into terminals or large food courts here. The assortment usually includes basic options for a quick snack.

What you can find:

• Drinks: Coffee, tea, bottled water, fizzy drinks, and juices.
• Snacks: Packaged crisps, biscuits, chocolate bars.
• Simple pastries: Sometimes you can find local pies (empanadillas) or packaged sandwiches.

Specialised dietary dishes, such as vegetarian, vegan, gluten-free, or Halal options, are likely unavailable here. If you have strict dietary requirements, it is strongly recommended to bring food with you. The cafeteria's opening hours are usually tied to the flight schedule — it opens shortly before the first departure and closes after the last plane leaves.

Main recommendation: Do not count on a full lunch or dinner at Vieques airport. It is best to eat beforehand in one of the numerous cafés in the towns of Isabel II or Esperanza before heading to your flight. The airport is suitable only for buying a bottle of water or a light snack before boarding.

Planning a trip through a small regional airport like Antonio Rivera Rodriguez Airport has its own nuances. These tips will help make your journey from Vieques as comfortable and predictable as possible.

Arrival Time and Check-in: For domestic flights within Puerto Rico, it is recommended to arrive at the airport approximately 1.5 hours before departure. Although the terminal is small and queues are rare, it is better to have a time buffer during the peak tourist season. The check-in and screening process usually goes quickly, but standard security rules apply, so keep your documents ready.

Seat Selection and Hand Luggage: Flights from Vieques are often operated on compact propeller aircraft, where there may be no pre-assigned seats. To enjoy the breathtaking views of the Caribbean Sea and the coast, try to take a window seat. Pay special attention to restrictions on the size and weight of hand luggage — they are stricter than on large airliners. Check your airline's rules in advance to avoid extra charges for checking a bag into the hold.

Transfers and Customs Control: If you are flying with a transfer through San Juan (SJU) to an international flight, allow at least 2-3 hours for the connection. This time will be enough to collect luggage (if required) and pass security control again. Since flights within Puerto Rico are considered domestic, there is no customs control. However, when departing for the US mainland, be prepared for an agricultural inspection of luggage (USDA).

Savings and Flight Delays: To save money, book tickets in advance and compare prices from local carriers such as Vieques Air Link and Cape Air. Travelling light will help avoid baggage fees. In case of a flight delay, bear in mind that amenities at the airport are limited. Take a book, headphones, and a portable charger with you. Airline staff will provide current information on the status of your departure.