Map of Airports in St. Lucia

St. Lucia, a beautiful Eastern Caribbean island, boasts a dynamic aviation infrastructure that serves both international and domestic travel. While it’s a relatively small island, it strategically utilizes two airports to cater to different needs: Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) and George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU). Understanding the location and function of each is key to navigating your travel plans. Hewanorra International Airport (UVF): Located at the southern tip of the island, near Vieux Fort, Hewanorra International Airport (UVF) is the larger of the two and primarily handles international flights. UVF is equipped with a longer runway capable of accommodating wide-body aircraft, making it the primary gateway for tourists arriving directly from North America, Europe, and other parts of the Caribbean. On a map, you’ll find UVF clearly marked south of Vieux Fort, close to the Atlantic coast. Its relatively remote location, away from the main tourist hubs, allows for less congestion and quieter take-offs and landings. This also means that travelers arriving at UVF should budget for a longer transfer time to reach popular destinations like Castries, Rodney Bay, or Soufriere. Taxis and shuttle services are readily available. The airport boasts modern facilities, including duty-free shops, restaurants, car rental agencies, and comfortable waiting areas. Several major airlines operate from UVF, including British Airways, American Airlines, Air Canada, and JetBlue, making it a well-connected international hub. George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU): George F. L. Charles Airport (SLU), formerly known as Vigie Airport, is situated much closer to the capital city of Castries, on the northwestern coast of St. Lucia. It primarily serves regional airlines and smaller aircraft, facilitating inter-island travel within the Caribbean. On a map, SLU appears considerably closer to Castries, making it a convenient option for those staying in or near the capital. Its central location also reduces travel time to the northern tourist areas, such as Rodney Bay and Gros Islet. Due to its shorter runway, SLU cannot accommodate large international flights. Instead, it hosts airlines like LIAT and Caribbean Airlines, connecting St. Lucia with neighboring islands such as Barbados, Dominica, and Martinique. This makes it an excellent choice for island hopping or quick business trips within the region. SLU offers a more intimate and less crowded airport experience compared to UVF. Facilities are more modest, but essential services such as customs, immigration, and car rentals are available. Choosing the Right Airport: When planning your trip to St. Lucia, consider your origin and destination within the island. If you’re arriving from outside the Caribbean and heading to the south, UVF is likely your best option. If you are traveling from another Caribbean island, or if your destination is Castries or the north, SLU might be more convenient. Check airline schedules and consider transfer times to your final destination to make the most informed decision. A quick glance at a map highlighting both airports will provide a clear visual representation of their respective locations and the benefits each offers.