Virgin Islands Airports
Airports in the Virgin Islands play a central role in trip planning, as they determine how easily you can reach specific islands and how your itinerary connects with ferries, boats, or regional flights. Because the Virgin Islands are divided between the United States Virgin Islands (USVI) and the British Virgin Islands (BVI), airport choice can directly affect entry procedures and onward travel.
This guide explains how Virgin Islands airports work, which islands they serve, and how they fit into overall transportation planning—without focusing on airline schedules or booking details.
Airports in the United States Virgin Islands (USVI)
The USVI has two main airports that handle most international and regional arrivals. These airports are commonly used as primary entry points for travelers planning to stay within the USVI or connect to nearby islands.
Cyril E. King Airport (St. Thomas)
Located on St. Thomas, this airport is the busiest in the USVI and a common arrival point for first-time visitors. Its location makes it convenient for travelers planning to stay on St. Thomas or connect by ferry to St. John or nearby islands.
Because of its transport connections, St. Thomas is often chosen as a base for trips that combine multiple islands. For base selection guidance, see Top Destinations in the Virgin Islands.
Henry E. Rohlsen Airport (St. Croix)
This airport serves St. Croix and is typically used by travelers planning to spend their entire trip on that island. St. Croix offers a more self-contained experience, and arrivals here usually involve less inter-island travel.
Travelers arriving in St. Croix often plan activities locally rather than using frequent ferry connections.
Airports in the British Virgin Islands (BVI)
Airports in the BVI are generally smaller and focus on regional connections. Many travelers reach the BVI by flying into a USVI airport and continuing by ferry or boat.
Terrance B. Lettsome International Airport (Tortola)
Located on Tortola, this is the main airport in the BVI. It serves as a gateway for travelers heading to Tortola, Virgin Gorda, and other nearby islands.
Because of limited direct international routes, arrival here is often combined with regional flights or ferry transfers from neighboring islands.
Choosing the Right Airport for Your Trip
The best airport depends on your itinerary. Travelers planning a single-island stay often choose the airport located on that island, while those combining islands may select an airport with better ferry connections.
- Best for multi-island trips: Airports with easy ferry access.
- Best for single-island stays: Airports located directly on your destination island.
- Best for sailing-focused trips: Airports near major marinas and ports.
From Airport to Your Destination
After arrival, onward travel often involves taxis, rental cars, ferries, or boat transfers. Planning this step in advance helps reduce waiting time and simplifies arrival day logistics.
Detailed transfer options are covered in the Transportation Guide for the Virgin Islands.
Entry Procedures and Border Considerations
Entry procedures depend on whether you arrive in the USVI or BVI and whether your trip includes crossing between the two jurisdictions. Even short ferry crossings can involve immigration checks.
Documentation requirements are explained in Visa & Entry Requirements for the Virgin Islands.
How Airports Shape Your Itinerary
Airport choice affects not only arrival day but also daily planning throughout your trip. Selecting an airport close to your accommodation or ferry routes can save time and reduce travel fatigue.
Many travelers coordinate airport planning with accommodation decisions. For location guidance, see Hotels in the Virgin Islands.
Next Steps
Once you know which airport fits your itinerary, continue planning transfers and activities using Virgin Islands Maps and Things to Do in the Virgin Islands.
