Overview of Piarco International Airport
Piarco International Airport is located in Trinidad and Tobago and is one of the largest airports in the Caribbean. It was officially opened in 1968, and since then has undergone numerous expansions and upgrades to accommodate the growing demand for air travel.
The airport has two terminals, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2, which are connected by a walkway. Terminal 1 handles all international flights while Terminal 2 handles domestic flights. The airport serves as a hub for Caribbean Airlines, the national airline of Trinidad and Tobago.
In 2019, the airport handled over 2.6 million passengers, with most of the traffic coming from the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. The airport also serves as a gateway to many other Caribbean destinations.
Piarco International Airport offers a wide range of amenities and services to passengers, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, and free Wi-Fi. The airport also has numerous transportation options available, including taxis, rental cars, and public transportation.
Overall, Piarco International Airport is a modern and efficient airport that provides a comfortable and convenient experience for travelers.
Terminals at Piarco International Airport
Piarco International Airport is the main international airport serving Trinidad and Tobago. The airport has two terminals: the North Terminal, which handles international flights, and the South Terminal, which is used for domestic flights.
The North Terminal comprises three levels and has a total of 14 gates. The upper level is used for departures, while the lower level is used for arrivals. The middle level houses airport offices, retail shops, and food outlets. Passengers can find a variety of shopping and dining options here.
The North Terminal is also equipped with various facilities to make the journey more comfortable, such as lounges, free Wi-Fi, currency exchange, and luggage storage areas. There are also ATM machines and a pharmacy available for passengers.
The South Terminal, which is smaller than the North Terminal, has four gates and is used for domestic flights. It has a single level with check-in counters, boarding gates, and a few retail shops.
Like the North Terminal, the South Terminal also has a few amenities, including a lounge, free Wi-Fi, and a small selection of food and beverage outlets.
Both terminals are equipped with modern facilities, including information screens, electronic boarding pass kiosks, and ample seating spaces. The airport also has a range of services, including wheelchair assistance, car rental, and taxi services.
Overall, Piarco International Airport’s terminals provide a convenient and comfortable travel experience for passengers. With a range of facilities and amenities, passengers can rest easy before or after their flights.
Airlines and Destinations
The following airlines operate from Piarco International Airport: Caribbean Airlines, JetBlue Airways, American Airlines, Copa Airlines, British Airways, Air Canada Rouge, and Avianca.
Caribbean Airlines offers domestic flights to Tobago, and international flights to destinations such as New York, Toronto, Miami, and Kingston. JetBlue Airways operates non-stop flights to New York, Fort Lauderdale, and Orlando. American Airlines has connections to various cities in the United States, including Dallas, Miami, and Charlotte.
Copa Airlines provides flights to various destinations in Central and South America, such as Panama City, San Jose in Costa Rica, and Santiago in Chile. British Airways offers connections to London, while Air Canada Rouge has seasonal flights to Toronto. Finally, Avianca operates flights to Bogota in Colombia.
It’s important to note that airlines and their respective destinations are subject to change, so it’s always best to check with the airline directly for up-to-date information and schedules.
Transportation Options at Piarco International Airport
Piarco International Airport is the primary airport serving Trinidad and Tobago. As such, there are several transportation options available for travelers to get to and from the airport.
One popular option is the shuttle service. Several companies provide shuttle services to and from the airport. These shuttles can be pre-booked or arranged at the airport itself. The shuttles are an excellent choice for solo travelers or small groups looking for a cost-effective option.
Car rentals are also available at the airport. Several international car rental agencies have offices at the airport. Although this option is more expensive than the shuttle service, it offers greater flexibility in terms of travel and sightseeing. You can easily rent a car with just your driver’s license and a deposit, but we recommend booking in advance, particularly if you are traveling during peak season.
Another great option is the airport’s shuttle bus service. This service offers transportation between the airport and various hotels in the area. The shuttle runs frequently and is an affordable option for groups of travelers.
Piarco International Airport is not currently served by train lines, but there are still a few alternative options available. Taxis are readily available outside of the airport terminal and are a good choice for those who prefer door-to-door service. However, they are more expensive than the other options.
Buses are also a popular mode of transportation in Trinidad and Tobago, and the airport is no exception. There are several public bus routes that pass near the airport, making it easy to access via public transportation.
In conclusion, there are several transportation options available at Piarco International Airport. Whether you choose to rent a car, take a shuttle, or hop on a bus, there is a mode of transportation that will suit your needs and budget. Just remember to plan ahead, so you can make the most of your time in Trinidad and Tobago.
Parking Options at Piarco International Airport
Piarco International Airport offers several parking options to meet the needs of travelers. The airport has both short-term and long-term parking areas that are conveniently located near the terminals.
For short-term parking, the airport has a multilevel parking garage that is located adjacent to the terminal building. The parking garage provides covered parking spaces for up to 1,500 vehicles and is open 24/7. The hourly rate for parking in the garage is $5.
Long-term parking at the airport is available in a surface parking lot that is located just a short shuttle ride away from the terminals. This lot provides both covered and uncovered parking spaces for up to 750 vehicles. The daily rate for parking in the long-term lot is $16.
In addition to the short-term and long-term parking options, the airport also offers valet parking services. Travelers can drop off their vehicles at the valet stand, located outside of the terminals, and have their cars parked for them. The valet parking service costs $25 per day.
Overall, Piarco International Airport provides travelers with convenient and affordable parking options. Whether you are looking for short-term or long-term parking, the airport has options that will meet your needs.
Check-In Procedures
The check-in process at Piarco International Airport offers several options to passengers. Online check-in is available up to 24 hours before departure through the airline’s website or mobile app. Passengers can select their seats, print or download their boarding passes, and avoid the hassle of long lines at the airport.
Self-service kiosks are also available at the airport for those who prefer a more hands-on approach. Passengers can scan their passports, select their seats, print their boarding passes, and drop off their bags at designated counters. This option is convenient for those who do not have access to online check-in or would like to bypass long lines at the traditional check-in counters.
For those who prefer the traditional check-in method, there are counters available at the airport to accommodate passengers. These counters are staffed with representatives who can assist with any questions or issues that may arise during the check-in process.
Regardless of the method chosen, passengers are required to have proper identification and travel documents, including a valid passport and visa if necessary. Baggage allowances and fees vary by airline, so it is important to check with the airline prior to arriving at the airport. Overall, the check-in process at Piarco International Airport is designed to be efficient and accommodate the needs of all passengers.
Security Procedures and Tips at Piarco International Airport
At Piarco International Airport, security is taken seriously to ensure the safety of all travelers.
Upon arrival at the airport, passengers must go through a security check that includes metal detectors and X-ray machines for carry-on luggage.
To avoid any delays during security, make sure to remove all items from your pockets and take off any metal accessories before passing through the detectors.
Any liquids over 3.4 ounces must be placed in a separate plastic bag and declared before passing through the security checkpoint.
It is also important to have all travel documents easily accessible to avoid any holdups during the security process.
By following these tips, you can have a smooth and stress-free security check at Piarco International Airport.
Customs and Immigration
Upon arrival at Piarco International Airport, passengers will first proceed to immigration where they will have their passport and other travel documents checked. After this, they will proceed to baggage claim and collect any checked luggage.
Once passengers have collected their bags, they will then proceed to customs where they will declare any items they are bringing into the country. For departing passengers, they will check in their bags and proceed to immigration where they will have their travel documents checked before proceeding to the departure lounge.
Passengers should ensure that they have all necessary travel documents, including visas if required, and that they have declared any items they are bringing into or taking out of the country. Failure to do so may result in delays or penalties.
Amenities
– Duty-free shopping for liquor, tobacco, fragrances, and cosmetics
– Restaurants, cafes, and bars offering a variety of local and international dishes
– Free Wi-Fi access throughout the airport
– Banking and currency exchange services
– Children’s play area and baby changing facilities
– Prayer rooms for Muslim passengers
– Medical clinic and pharmacy
– Lost and Found services
– Car rental facilities
– ATMs and vending machines
– Lounges with comfortable seating, TV, and refreshments
– Shower facilities
– 24-hour baggage storage and wrapping services
– Assistance for passengers with reduced mobility
– Information desks and customer service representatives.
Accessibility Services
Piarco International Airport is committed to providing an accessible and comfortable experience for all passengers. The airport offers a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues.
These services include wheelchair assistance, accessible parking spaces, and accessible restrooms throughout the airport. Additionally, the airport has trained staff members available to assist passengers in need of special assistance.
Passengers with disabilities or mobility issues are encouraged to contact the airport’s Passenger Services Department in advance to request assistance and ensure a smooth travel experience.
Connecting Flights at Piarco International Airport
When connecting flights at Piarco International Airport, it is important to have a clear understanding of the process. Firstly, check your flight itinerary and determine which gate your next flight departs from.
Next, proceed to the Transit Lounge, where you will undergo security screening before being allowed to enter the departure lounge for your next flight. It is advisable to allow for ample time between connecting flights to account for delays, security screening, and any unforeseen circumstances.
If your connecting flight is with the same airline, your baggage will be automatically transferred to your next flight. However, if you are flying with different airlines, you will need to collect your baggage and check it in for your next flight.
Be sure to keep all necessary travel documents and boarding passes on hand, as you may need to present them during the transfer process. Finally, pay attention to any announcements or updates regarding your connecting flight, as they may affect your travel plans.
Baggage Claim and Lost Property
After disembarking from your flight, head to the baggage claim area located in the arrivals hall. Look for the monitor displaying your flight number and confirm which carousel your bags will be arriving on.
Once you have collected your luggage, inspect it for any damage. If you notice any damage, report it to the airline’s baggage service office before leaving the airport. In the event that your luggage is lost or fails to arrive, report it immediately to the airline’s baggage service office.
Provide the airline staff with a detailed description of your missing baggage and ensure that you receive a copy of the report. Keep this report safe as it will be required for insurance purposes. Piarco International Airport also has a lost and found office located in the airport terminal for any misplaced items.
Emergency and Medical Facilities
In case of emergency, the airport has a well-trained staff and modern equipment to handle all kinds of situations. The airport also has an on-site medical center that is staffed with qualified doctors and nurses 24/7.
The medical center is equipped to handle minor illnesses and injuries, as well as administer medication and first aid. However, in case of serious medical emergencies, patients are transferred to nearby hospitals via ambulance or helicopter, depending on the severity of the situation.
Furthermore, the airport has defibrillators and oxygen tanks stationed throughout the premises in case of cardiac emergencies. All airport staff members are trained in basic first-aid and emergency procedures to ensure quick and efficient response times.
Hotel Accommodations
There are a variety of hotel accommodations available within the vicinity of Piarco International Airport. These lodgings offer convenient access to the airport, making them a great option for travelers with early morning flights or layovers.
Some of the closest hotels to the airport include the Holiday Inn Express Trinidad Airport Hotel, located just 1.5 km away, and the Airport Suites Hotel, only 2.2 km away. The Piarco Village Suites and the Regent Star Hotel are both around 3 km from the airport, while the Grand Diamond Hotel Trinidad is about 5 km away.
All of these hotels offer a range of amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, airport shuttle services, and on-site dining options. Some also have swimming pools, fitness centers, and meeting rooms, making them suitable for business travelers as well.
Useful Tips
Here are some insider tips for navigating and enjoying Piarco International Airport. First, be sure to arrive at least two hours before your scheduled flight time to allow for any unexpected delays or long lines at security.
Next, pack your carry-on bag carefully and make sure it meets the size and weight restrictions set by your airline. Take advantage of the free Wi-Fi and charging stations throughout the airport to stay connected while you wait.
If you have a layover, consider booking a lounge or spa service to relax and refresh before your next flight. And don’t forget to stock up on local snacks and souvenirs at the airport shops before you board your flight.
Contact Information
Airport Information Desk: +1 868 669 5282 ext. 1200
Lost and Found: +1 868 669 5282 ext. 1217
Airport Police: +1 868 669 5600
Airport Fire Service: +1 868 669 1515
Customer Feedback: [email protected]
Website: www.piarcoairport.com
Airports near Piarco International Airport
- ANR Robinson International Airport – Distance: 116km; Transportation Options: Car rental, Taxi, Public Bus
- Crown Point International Airport – Distance: 118km; Transportation Options: Car rental, Taxi, Public Bus
- Ogle Airport – Distance: 482km; Transportation Options: Car rental, Taxi, Public Bus
- Tobago Airport – Distance: 118km; Transportation Options: Car rental, Taxi, Public Bus
Note: Transportation options may vary and travelers are advised to check with local transportation providers for up-to-date information.