Ambergris Caye International Airport Could Begin Construction in Three Years

Plans for a new international airport in the northern part of Ambergris Caye remain firmly on the government’s agenda, reviving a project that has been discussed for more than a decade but has yet to materialise.

Area Representative for Belize Rural South, Andre Perez, told News Five that the airport is still under active discussion and is expected to move forward, with development projected to begin within the next three to four years.

He explained that the concept mirrors models used in the Bahamas. Under the plan, private aircraft would be able to land in San Pedro, clear customs and immigration within minutes, and reach accommodations shortly after. Aircraft could also remain parked at the airport for a daily fee, generating ongoing revenue.

Perez noted that the airport will also improve efficiency for local airlines. At present, flights between San Pedro and the Philip Goldson International Airport (PGIA) carry about 14 passengers at a time. With the new runway, airlines could introduce larger ATR aircraft capable of carrying around 40 passengers per trip.

The development will include supporting infrastructure such as roads, water systems, sewers, and lighting, with funding already secured. The design, featuring a runway between 7,000 and 8,000 feet, has been reviewed and accepted by the Inter-American Development Bank (IDB), according to Perez.

“It is going to happen, that’s for sure,” Perez said.