Jazmin Li
Saint Lucia is a lush, green gem of the Caribbean, with palm-fringed beaches, plunging valleys, and peaks covered in lush rainforest. The island has two airports: Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU). Hewanorra International Airport is the largest and most popular airport in Saint Lucia, located about 40 miles south of the capital city, Castries, and close to some of the island's best attractions, including the Sulphur Springs volcano. George F.L. Charles Airport is located in the north of the island and is more convenient for accessing northern resorts and attractions. Both airports were open for business as of November 2, 2023, and tourism was expected to be back to normal by November 12, 2023.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Date | Tuesday, November 2, 2010 |
| Airports | Hewanorra International Airport (UVF), George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) |
| Airlines | American Eagle, American Airlines, Delta Airlines, US Airways, Air Canada, British Airways, Virgin Atlantic, LIAT |
| Status | Open for business |
| Services | Increased services at George F. L. Charles Airport |
| Roads | Castries-Vieux Fort and Soufrière-Vieux Fort thoroughfares are fully motorable |
| Electricity | Restored to 80% of the island |
| Water | Most resorts have adequate water |
| Damages | No significant damage |
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What You'll Learn
Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) is St Lucia's main airport
The airport is a popular gateway for international visitors, offering flights to destinations throughout the Caribbean, North America, and Europe. It has been described as small but efficient, with friendly and helpful staff. However, some travellers have noted the limited parking, seating, and food options available. The airport is currently undergoing renovations to enhance its accommodations and services.
Hewanorra International Airport has a rich aviation history. It was originally named Beane Army Airfield and served as a military airfield for the United States Army Air Force. Over the years, it has accommodated various airlines, including BWIA West Indies Airways, British Airways, Eastern Airlines, and American Airlines.
In terms of transportation to and from the airport, travellers can choose from airport taxis, shuttles, car rentals, and private transfer services. It is recommended to book rental vehicles in advance to ensure availability. For those seeking a more scenic route, St. Lucia also offers ferry and cruise ship services to and from the island.
The airport plays a crucial role in St. Lucia's growing tourism industry, providing a seamless travel experience for visitors eager to explore the island's renowned beauty, from its stunning beaches and lush rainforests to its vibrant culture.
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George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU) is the smaller airport
Saint Lucia is served by two airports: Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU). George F.L. Charles Airport (SLU) is the smaller of the two airports and is located in the north of the island. It is a great option for travellers from Caribbean destinations as it is more convenient in terms of accessibility to northern resorts and attractions. The airport is served by regional airline LIAT and American Eagle, which flies from Puerto Rico.
Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) is the larger and more popular of the two airports, situated about 40 miles (64 kilometres) south of the capital city, Castries. It is the preferred choice for guests arriving from international destinations such as the United States and Canada. The airport offers modern facilities and amenities, including shopping, dining options, and parking.
In the past, Saint Lucia's airports have experienced closures and disruptions due to hurricanes and storms. For example, in November 2010, the airports were closed following Hurricane Tomas, a Category 1 storm. However, thanks to the dedicated efforts of the Saint Lucian community, the airports were fully operational again within a week, and tourism was "back to normal" by November 12.
As of November 2, 2023, both airports were open for business, with American Eagle increasing services at George F.L. Charles Airport to clear the backlog of passengers travelling between San Juan, Puerto Rico, and Saint Lucia.
It is always a good idea to check the latest information and updates on airport status and any travel restrictions before planning a trip to Saint Lucia or any other destination.
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Both airports were open for business as of November 2, 2023
As of Tuesday, November 2, St. Lucia's two airports, Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) in the south and George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) in the north, were open for business. Both airports were operational, and American Eagle had increased services at George F. L. Charles Airport to clear the backlog of passengers delayed between San Juan, Puerto Rico, and St. Lucia.
The island was recovering from a hurricane, and Senator Chastanet reported that "incredible improvements" were being made daily to clean up debris. Tourism stakeholders intimated no significant damage to their properties and attractions, and most resorts had adequate water supply. The major roads had been cleared, and electricity had been restored to 80% of the island.
Hewanorra International Airport is St. Lucia's largest and most popular international airport, offering modern facilities and amenities. It is situated about 40 miles (64 kilometers) south of the capital city, Castries, and is the preferred choice for guests arriving from international destinations such as the United States and Canada. George F. L. Charles Airport, on the other hand, is the smaller airport and is more convenient for those travelling from Caribbean destinations or looking to access northern resorts and attractions quickly.
It is recommended that visitors to St. Lucia fill out the immigration forms online prior to their arrival and book their transportation in advance, whether it be a rental car or taxi.
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St Lucia's airports were closed due to Hurricane Tomas
As Hurricane Tomas approached, the National Hurricane Center (NHC) noted the potential for heavy rainfall and strong wind gusts in the Windward Islands, which include St Lucia. The government of St Lucia issued a hurricane warning and ordered the closure of both the island's airports—Hewanorra International Airport in the south and George F. L. Charles Airport in the north—along with all businesses.
The hurricane caused significant damage in St Lucia, with the government estimating losses of up to US$500 million. Eight fatalities were reported on the island, and the storm exacerbated an ongoing cholera outbreak. In the aftermath of the hurricane, the Tourism Minister praised the clean-up efforts of the Saint Lucian populace, stating that major roads had been cleared and power and water supply were being restored.
By November 2, both of St Lucia's airports were open for business, with American Eagle increasing services to manage delayed passengers. The Tourism Minister announced that the island would be welcoming visitors by air from November 5, a week earlier than previously forecast. Cruise ships also resumed calls to the island starting November 7.
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The best time to visit St Lucia is between mid-April and December
St Lucia is a beautiful island with stunning views, palm-fringed beaches, plunging valleys, and rising peaks covered in lush rainforest. The best time to visit St Lucia is between mid-April and December, when the island is less crowded, and the weather is dry and warm.
The dry season in St Lucia lasts from December to April, offering sunny skies, warm temperatures, and minimal rainfall. This makes it an ideal time for beachgoers, honeymooners, and first-time visitors. The months of March-April and October-November typically have excellent weather, with temperatures in the high 70s or low 80s, and fewer people on the island. The end of April also marks the beginning of the Saint Lucia Jazz & Arts Festival, which features a mix of local and international musicians.
If you're looking to experience the island's vibrant culture, May to November is a great time to visit. The Pitons and rainforest trails are at their most beautiful during this period, with lush greenery and flowing waterfalls. The Saint Lucia Jazz Fest in May features world-class performances from jazz musicians around the world. The island also hosts the Saint Lucia Roots & Soul Fest in August, celebrating the island's African heritage with reggae, soca, and calypso music.
The least expensive time to fly to St Lucia is usually during the off-season from May to September when hotel rates are lower and there are fewer tourists. The official hurricane season is from July to November, but the risk of hurricanes is very low. December is also a popular time to visit, especially for Christmas, with many people booking a year or more in advance.
When planning your trip to St Lucia, keep in mind that the island has two airports: Hewanorra International Airport in the south and George F. L. Charles Airport in the north. It is recommended to book your transportation in advance, as options may be limited upon arrival.
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Frequently asked questions
Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) is currently open and operational. It is St Lucia's largest and most popular airport, offering modern facilities and amenities, including shopping, dining, and parking.
Hewanorra International Airport was fully operational as of Friday, November 5, 2010, following the passage of Hurricane Tomas.
George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU) is also currently open and operational. It is the smaller of St Lucia's two airports and is located in the north of the island.
George F. L. Charles Airport was fully operational as of Friday, November 5, 2010, along with Hewanorra International Airport.
