Henry E. Rohlsen Airport

Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) is the main air gateway to the picturesque island of St. Croix and the starting point of your Caribbean adventure. Nestled amidst lush tropical greenery, this airport offers travellers a unique blend of a relaxed island atmosphere and modern aviation standards. Named after a distinguished aviator from the "Tuskegee Airmen" squadron, the air harbour not only serves as a vital transport hub but also proudly preserves the region's history, welcoming guests with a warm breeze and bright sun from the very first minutes after landing.

Features and Advantages of the Airport:

Henry E. Rohlsen Airport stands out for its rich history and commitment to sustainability. One of its main features is the use of its own solar-powered microgrid, highlighting the island's care for the environment. The terminal is equipped with everything necessary for a comfortable wait: you will find car rental desks, souvenir shops featuring local products, and cafes.

Thanks to a long runway (over 3 km), the airport is capable of accommodating even the largest long-haul liners, making St. Croix accessible to travellers from all over the world. The compactness of the terminal ensures quick navigation and completion of formalities, allowing tourists to head to the beaches or the historic centre of Christiansted sooner.

Below is the essential contact information for Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX).

• Official Website: www.viport.com. The airport is managed by the Virgin Islands Port Authority (VIPA), and up-to-date information can be found on their website.
• Help Desk Phone: +1 (340) 778-1012.
• Airport Address: Airport Road, Christiansted, island of St. Croix, territory of the U.S. Virgin Islands.
• Email: A direct email address for general inquiries is not published. To contact the administration, it is recommended to use the phone or contact forms on the official website (if available).
• Social Media: Operational updates and airport news are often published on official VIPA pages on social networks, such as Facebook.
• Lost Luggage Information: For issues related to lost or damaged checked baggage, you should contact your airline's representative directly. If you have lost personal items within the terminal building (outside the aircraft), contact airport security.
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general questions, consultations, and assistance, you can call the main airport help desk number.

Getting to Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) on the island of St. Croix is straightforward, as it is conveniently located in the central part of the island. Travellers have access to several transport options, varying in cost and comfort level. The journey from the main towns, Christiansted or Frederiksted, usually takes no more than 20–25 minutes, though travel time may vary depending on traffic conditions.

Taxis and Transfers are the most popular and convenient way to get to the airport. Taxis can be found throughout the island, especially near hotels and in tourist zones. An important feature in the U.S. Virgin Islands is that taxi fares are regulated and set per person and per route, rather than by a meter. It is recommended to confirm the cost of the trip with the driver in advance. Many hotels also offer transfer services for their guests, which can be a convenient solution.

Car Rental is an ideal option for those planning to actively explore the island. Offices of several international and local rental companies operate at the airport and its vicinity. Having your own transport gives you complete freedom of movement. However, note a critically important detail: the island has left-hand traffic, although most cars have the steering wheel on the left. Be especially attentive on the roads. The airport provides both short-term and long-term parking for those arriving in rental or private vehicles.

For the most budget-conscious travellers, there is public transport — the VITRAN bus system. This is the cheapest way to move around the island, but it has its drawbacks. Buses run on a schedule that may not always be convenient, especially if you have a lot of luggage or are rushing for a flight. Routes may not go directly to your hotel, so this option is better suited for tourists with a light backpack and a flexible schedule.

Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) is the main air gateway to the island of St. Croix, which is part of the U.S. Virgin Islands. Its structure is simple and convenient for travellers, allowing you to avoid the stress typical of major transport hubs.

The airport consists of one passenger terminal, which serves all arriving and departing flights, both domestic and international. Thanks to this, there is no need for complex transfers or the use of shuttles — everything is located in one building. The terminal features a partially open-air design, allowing guests to immediately feel the warm Caribbean climate.

The terminal layout is intuitively clear. Upon entry, you find yourself in the general area where airline check-in counters are located. After completing check-in and dropping off luggage, passengers proceed to a single security checkpoint. Immediately beyond it lies the secure zone with boarding gates. The arrivals area is located in the same part of the building but has a separate exit leading to baggage claim belts, customs control, and car rental counters.

Check-in and security procedures at STX airport generally proceed quite quickly. On average, this takes from 20 to 45 minutes. Nevertheless, during the peak tourist season or when several flights depart simultaneously, queues are possible. To avoid rushing, it is recommended to arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before departure.

To navigate the terminal, simply follow the few but clear signs. Due to its compact size, getting lost here is practically impossible. All main services — from cafes and souvenir shops to restrooms and boarding gates — are within a few minutes' walk of each other, making your stay at the airport as comfortable as possible.

The history of Henry E. Rohlsen Airport is closely linked to key events of the 20th century. Its story began during World War II, when the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers built a military airfield here in the early 1940s. Initially, it bore the name of Alexander Hamilton (Alexander Hamilton Field) — one of the Founding Fathers of the USA, who spent his youth on the island of St. Croix. After the war ended, the airfield was transferred for civil use, marking the beginning of a new era in the development of air travel in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

With the development of tourism in the Caribbean in the 1960s and 1970s, the airport began to play a key role in the island's economy. The jet age arrived, and the runway was upgraded to accommodate large liners such as the Boeing 707 and DC-8. Airlines like Pan Am and Eastern Air Lines operated regular flights, connecting St. Croix with the US mainland and turning the airport into a bustling air gateway.

The airport's history is also a story of resilience and rebirth. In 1989, the devastating Hurricane Hugo caused serious damage to the terminal infrastructure and other facilities. This event triggered a massive reconstruction and modernization effort. The airport played a critically important role in delivering humanitarian aid and evacuating people after the natural disaster, which further highlighted its strategic importance for the island. In subsequent years, the airport also steadfastly withstood the blows of other hurricanes, including Marilyn (1995) and Maria (2017).

A significant milestone in the airport's history was 1996, when it was officially renamed in honour of Henry E. Rohlsen. This is a tribute to a native of St. Croix who was one of the celebrated Tuskegee Airmen — the first African-American unit of pilots in the US Army during World War II. Simultaneously with the renaming, another phase of modernization was completed, including terminal expansion and runway improvements. Today, its length is over 3,000 metres, allowing it to accommodate practically any type of aircraft.

Today, Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) is a modern transport hub that continues to serve as the main aerial artery for the island of St. Croix. It not only ensures connection with the outside world for local residents but also warmly welcomes tourists from across the globe wishing to discover the beauty and hospitality of the Caribbean Sea. Its history reflects the development path of the entire island — from a strategic military object to a thriving tourist centre.

Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX) on the island of St. Croix offers passengers a basic set of services necessary for a comfortable start or end to a journey. Despite its small size, the airport is well-organized and oriented towards the needs of tourists arriving in the U.S. Virgin Islands.

In the terminal, you will find several cafes and bars where you can have a snack, drink coffee, or enjoy refreshments. Shops are also in operation, offering souvenirs, beachwear, travel goods, and duty-free products. This is an excellent place to buy gifts or necessary small items before departure.

For the convenience of passengers, free Wi-Fi is provided throughout the airport territory. In the departure lounge, there are power outlets and stations for charging electronic devices. It is worth noting that there are no specialized VIP halls or business lounges at the airport; general seating areas are intended for waiting for flights.

ATMs are installed in the airport building for cash withdrawals. Currency exchange points may be absent, so international travellers are recommended to exchange money in advance. In case first aid is required, please contact airport staff.

The airport is fully accessible for passengers with reduced mobility: it is equipped with ramps and special restrooms. To obtain a wheelchair or assistance with escorting, contact your airline representative. Families with small children can use changing tables in the restrooms.

There are no hotels directly on the airport grounds, but many accommodation options are located just a few minutes' drive away. Specialized conference rooms or business centres are absent in the terminal, as the airport is oriented primarily towards tourist traffic.

Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (STX), serving the island of St. Croix, offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal before departure. Although the airport is relatively small, you can find both establishments for a leisurely lunch and points for quickly purchasing drinks and snacks. Most establishments are located in the main part of the terminal, before the security checkpoint.

The main place for dining at the airport is the restaurant located in the public zone (landside). It typically operates from early morning until the departure of the last flight. Here, travellers can order a full breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The menu generally includes popular American dishes — burgers, sandwiches, salads, as well as some local Caribbean cuisine. This is the ideal place to eat calmly before checking in for your flight and passing through security control.

After passing security (airside), in the departure zone, the selection is more limited. Typically, a small bar operates here where you can order beverages, including the famous local rum, as well as coffee and light snacks such as chips, pastries, or packaged sandwiches. This is a great option if you want a quick bite or something refreshing while waiting to board your flight.

Regarding special dietary needs, choices for vegetarians, vegans, or people with gluten intolerance may be limited. In the main restaurant, you can check for the availability of salads or other suitable dishes, but specialized options will likely not be available. Passengers with strict dietary restrictions are recommended to bring food with them. Prices in airport establishments correspond to the mid-to-high range, which is typical for such locations.

Thus, if you have time for a full meal, it is best to visit the restaurant in the main hall before the security zone. If you are in a hurry or have already passed control, your choice is the bar in the departure zone for a quick snack. Additionally, vending machines with drinks and snacks are available in the terminal.

Travelling through Henry E. Rohlsen Airport can be a pleasant start or end to your Caribbean holiday. To ensure everything goes smoothly, use these tips to save time, money, and stress.

Arrival Time and Check-in. To avoid rushing, especially during the peak tourist season, arrive at the airport at least 2-3 hours before departure. The airport is small, but queues for check-in and security can be unpredictable. If possible, complete online check-in in advance and print your boarding pass or save it on your phone.

Control Specifics. One of the main features of the airport for passengers departing to the US mainland is passing through U.S. Customs and Border Protection right here on the island of St. Croix. This is a pre-clearance procedure. It means that upon arrival at your destination on the mainland, your flight will be considered domestic, and you will not have to go through customs again. Be sure to allocate extra time for this.

Hand Luggage and Seat Selection. Try to pack items in accordance with standard security rules (restrictions on liquids up to 100 ml). Do not put local fruits, plants, or corals in your hand luggage without first clarifying export rules. When choosing a seat on the plane, prefer a window seat — during takeoff and landing, unforgettable views of the island and the turquoise waters of the Caribbean Sea will open up to you.

Economy and Comfort. Prices for food and drinks at the airport can be high. To save money, bring light snacks and an empty reusable water bottle, which can be filled after passing security control. also, research airport transfer options in advance — pre-booking a taxi or shuttle is often more cost-effective than finding a car on the spot.

If the Flight is Delayed. In case of a flight delay, remain calm. Monitor information on departure boards and in your airline's app. Do not hesitate to contact carrier representatives to learn about your rights, for example, regarding vouchers for food or drinks during long waits. Although the airport is small, you will be able to find a place to rest and charge electronic devices.