As Aruba's popularity as a tourist destination continues to grow, the airport has embarked on a transformative journey to redefine hospitality and convenience for travelers.

The ongoing project, Gateway 2030, represents a significant investment in modernizing and innovating Queen Beatrix Airport to overcome capacity constraints and deliver a world-class airport experience. Phase 1A is rapidly progressing and set to unveil a new US check-in hall, baggage hall, and airline offices, showcasing a seamless fusion of state-of-the-art technology and sustainable design principles when operational.

Passengers entering the newly designed check-in hall will encounter a spacious and ecofriendly environment engineered for efficiency and comfort. The self-service options and streamlined processes aim to simplify and expedite the pre-flight experience, setting a new standard for hassle-free travel. This new spacious and modern check-in hall also features beautiful art showcasing Aruba's diverse flora and fauna by renowned local artist Armando Goedgedrag. This artwork makes our airport stand out and brings a touch of our local branding and identity to our terminal hall. It is also a reminder of the unique nature our visitors experience while on the island.

A highlight of the enhancements is the cutting-edge baggage handling system, capable of processing up to 2000 pieces of luggage per hour with exceptional speed and accuracy. This system optimizes security screening and eliminates the need for passengers to retrieve and recheck their luggage when traveling to the USA, enhancing convenience and reducing travel time significantly.

US-bound travelers can look forward to an enhanced journey with streamlined passenger processing and a quicker transition through the airport's facilities. By integrating innovative design and technology, Queen Beatrix Airport sets a new benchmark in efficiency and customer service, ensuring a smooth and stress-free traveler experience.

Mr. Gilbert Rafael, Chief Development & Technology Officer at AAA, presented the latest development of Phase 1A. The construction project encompasses the expanded check-in building on the US side. This expanded area will then, in the future, become the main check-in terminal for all departures. Phase 1-A also includes developing and installing the baggage handling system and the new baggage make-up area. “When launching the new baggage system in the coming months, Aruba will be the second country in the world with such a modern baggage handling system. It will eliminate three passenger processing checkpoints when launching this new and innovative system,” as stated by Gilbert Rafael.

“We are committed to enhancing the passenger journey with the Gateway 2030 project. The delivery of Phase 1A enhances operational efficiency and aims to increase passenger dwell time before departure by improving the overall passenger experience when traveling through AUA Airport. Once the entire Gateway 2030 project is completed, we will have much more space to expand our airport amenities and offerings," stated Barbara Brown, Chief Revenue Development and Communications Officer at Queen Beatrix Airport.

A well-pleased Joost Meijs, CEO of AAA stated: “We are extremely proud that we can stand here and say that the execution of this 140-million-dollar investment has been successfully delivered by local contractors in a very collaborative spirit with the PMO team and our internal airport teams, with the right quality in mind and within the allocated budget. As the icing on the cake and in line with our corporate strategy, this building is the first building in Aruba that meets the LEED Gold requirements. As you may know, the LEED certification provides a framework for healthy, highly efficient, and cost-saving green buildings, which offer environmental, social, and governance benefits. We can easily say that it is the most sustainable building in Aruba.”

With the Gateway 2030 project phase 1A on track, the airport is testing the new baggage handling system and check-in terminal. It will unveil the new facility and processes by early 2025, reinforcing its dedication to innovation, customer satisfaction, and operational excellence. Queen Beatrix Airport looks forward to welcoming travelers to its state-of-the-art facilities and inviting everyone to experience the future of travel firsthand.