Aruba Airport: Global Entry Access And Benefits

Aruba's Reina Beatrix International Airport offers US pre-clearance, which means that passengers travelling to the US clear US customs in Aruba and can arrive in the US as domestic passengers. The airport has Global Entry kiosks, which can save time, although there are reports of the kiosks not always being operational. Aruba is a participant in the Global Entry on Arrival program, which allows conditionally approved Global Entry applicants to complete their interviews while travelling to the US from Aruba.

Global Entry kiosks in Aruba

Global Entry kiosks are available at Aruba's Reina Beatrix International Airport. The kiosks allow travellers to skip the long lines at customs and security, saving time and hassle. It is recommended to arrive at the Aruba Airport at least 2-3 hours before your scheduled departure time to account for any potential delays or issues with the kiosks.

The Global Entry program is available to citizens of several countries, including the United States, Argentina, Brazil, Bahrain, India, Colombia, the United Kingdom, Germany, the Netherlands, Panama, Singapore, South Korea, Switzerland, Taiwan, and Mexico. For a $100 admission fee, travellers can enjoy expedited clearance upon arrival in Aruba and skip the regular lines at customs and security.

In addition to the kiosks, Aruba Airport also offers a VIP Concierge Service that provides fast-track travel services, including skipping authority lines and access to the airport's VIP lounges. This service is available for a fee of approximately $150 per person.

It is important to note that Aruba has US pre-clearance for all passengers travelling to the United States. This means that you will go through passport control and customs in Aruba, and upon arrival in the US, you will not need to go through the same process again.

When using the Global Entry kiosks, ensure that you have your travel documents, such as your passport and boarding pass, readily available. Additionally, dispose of any liquids before entering the screening posts, wear easily removable shoes, and place all electronics and belts separately in a bin as per TSA requirements.

While the Global Entry kiosks can save you a significant amount of time, there have been reports of the kiosks being non-operational or experiencing technical difficulties. In such cases, a designated agent may not always be available to assist. Therefore, it is advisable to arrive early and give yourself ample time to clear through the airport, especially during peak hours and weekends.

Aruba Airport's peak hours

Aruba's Reina Beatrix International Airport is a hub of activity, serving as a gateway to the island for travellers from around the globe. Among its many offerings, the airport also provides US pre-clearance, making it a convenient choice for those heading to the United States.

When it comes to peak hours, the airport experiences its busiest days on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays, particularly from 11:30 am to 3:00 pm. During these times, it is recommended that travellers set aside additional time for check-in and customs procedures to ensure a smooth journey. This is especially true for those travelling to the United States, as the check-in time for these flights is typically three hours before departure.

To streamline your experience, Aruba's Reina Beatrix International Airport offers a range of services, including a VIP Concierge Service that provides fast-track assistance and access to exclusive airport lounges. Additionally, the airport's efficient transportation options, such as airport transfers, car rentals, taxis, and public buses, make arriving and departing a seamless process.

For US-bound travellers, the airport's US pre-clearance facility simplifies your journey. By completing passport control in Aruba, you can skip the hassle of lengthy procedures upon your return to the United States. This, coupled with the availability of Global Entry kiosks, further expedites your travel, making Aruba's Reina Beatrix International Airport a convenient choice for your travels.

US pre-clearance in Aruba

Aruba's Reina Beatrix International Airport offers US pre-clearance for all passengers travelling to the United States. This means that US-bound passengers go through passport control in Aruba at the US Customs & Border Protection facility and skip the same process when they land in the US.

The check-in time for US-bound flights is three hours before departure. After checking in, passengers proceed to Aruba Immigration, where they must present their travel documents. They then pick up their baggage and go to the US Customs & Border Protection facility, where a uniformed official will run a computer check and take their Customs Declaration form. Once cleared, passengers place their baggage on a conveyor to be loaded onto the plane, clear security, and walk to their gate.

US-bound passengers are part of the Aruba Airport's new flow control program, which aims to provide more prompt service and reduce crowds at the airport. Passengers are requested to arrive at the airport during a specific time slot based on their scheduled departure time.

Global Entry is a fast-track option available at the US Customs & Border Protection facility in Aruba. It costs $100 for five years and can save travellers up to an hour when entering the US. However, it requires an in-person interview and rigorous background checks.

Global Entry interview process

The Global Entry program offers expedited entry when returning to the US and reduced wait times at security checkpoints when entering the airport. The interview process is relatively straightforward, but there are a few key steps to be aware of. Here is a detailed overview of the Global Entry interview process:

Application and Conditional Approval:

First, applicants must fill out an online application, which includes questions about employment, travel history, address, and criminal history. After submitting the application, it will be reviewed and verified by US Customs and Border Protection (CBP). If conditionally approved, applicants can proceed to schedule an interview. It's worth noting that this process can take anywhere from two weeks to twelve months or longer.

Scheduling the Interview:

Interviews can be scheduled at a Global Entry Enrollment Center. However, due to high demand, appointments may be challenging to secure. A service called Global Entry Spotter can assist in finding open appointment slots for a small fee. Alternatively, some airports offer "Enrollment on Arrival," allowing travellers to complete their interviews when returning from an international trip without an appointment.

Required Documents:

For the interview, applicants must bring their valid passport and one other form of identification, such as a driver's license or ID card. Lawful permanent residents must present their machine-readable permanent resident card. It is also essential to bring any additional documentation requested by the Trusted Traveler website, such as court documents or proof of address changes.

The Interview:

The interview typically lasts around 10-30 minutes but can be as short as 5 minutes. A CBP officer will verify the applicant's information, ask a series of questions, and review the required documents. Common interview questions include:

• Current address and date of birth
• Employment information
• Travel history and future travel plans
• Whether the applicant has ever been arrested or had issues with customs
• Basic biographical information

After verifying the documents and completing the interview, the officer will register the applicant's biometrics, including taking a photo and scanning fingerprints.

Approval and Membership:

Following the interview, applicants will receive an approval decision via email. If approved, they will receive their Global Entry membership number and card within a few weeks. The membership is valid for five years, after which renewal is required to maintain benefits.

VIP Concierge Service at Aruba Airport

Aruba Airport, also known as Reina Beatrix International Airport, offers VIP Concierge Service to travellers. This service provides a seamless travel experience, ensuring that you receive meticulous treatment from the moment you arrive at the airport.

Arrival Services

Upon arrival, VIP agents will meet you at the aircraft or the air bridge, carrying identifying signs. They will then assist with porter services at baggage claim and facilitate contact with your driver outside the airport. The agent will also arrange a meeting point and escort you and your group to your chosen transportation vehicle.

Departure Services

Prior to your departure, a VIP agent will contact you to arrange a meeting spot. Once you arrive, the agent will meet you at the entrance of the airport/VIP terminal and escort you through check-in, security, and to the lounge (if applicable) and your gate.

Transit Services

For those with connecting flights, VIP agents will meet you at the aircraft or air bridge and escort you to the lounge (if applicable) and on to your connecting flight. They will assist with luggage collection, and porter services can also be arranged if needed.

Fast-Track Services

Lounge Access

VIP Concierge Service also provides access to the Airport's VIP lounges, offering a comfortable and relaxing space to wait for your flight.

Contact Information

For more information and to arrange VIP Concierge Service at Aruba Airport, you can contact the following providers:

• Royal Airport Concierge: +1(855) 455-1555 (toll-free US number) or +1(202) 883-3332 (international)
• First Class Experience Aruba: +297 582.48.38 (tel), +297 582.92.20 (fax), +297 699.88.06 (cel), or [email protected]

Frequently asked questions