Most visitors arrive in Jamaica through one of three major airports, which together handle millions of passengers every year. Three smaller aerodromes serve flights within the island. Upgrades to the main terminals in recent years have brought them closer to international standards. Knowing which airport is nearest to your hotel can save hours on the road, and sometimes a good deal of money.
International airports
Norman Manley International (NMIA), Kingston. Near Kingston Harbour, it is the natural gateway for travellers heading to the capital and the east: Kingston itself, St. Mary, Portland and St. Thomas. It is quieter than Sangster, which often means quicker immigration processing.
Sangster International (MBJ), Montego Bay. The busiest in the country and one of the busiest in the Caribbean, handling around twice the traffic of Kingston, according to the original guide. Its location makes it the preferred choice for the resort areas of Montego Bay, Negril, and for many visitors to Ocho Rios.
Ian Fleming International (IFIA), St. Mary. Previously the Boscobel Aerodrome, which handled only domestic flights, it was upgraded between 2009 and 2011 and now takes commercial and charter flights from the United States and within the Caribbean. It is the closest international option for Ocho Rios and Runaway Bay, and it caters mostly to the upper end of the market. Only small aircraft operate here.
Domestic aerodromes
Tinson Pen, Kingston. The largest of the three, on Marcus Garvey Drive. Business travellers favour it for a fast link between Kingston and Montego Bay, and Negril and Port Antonio are other popular destinations.
Ken Jones, Port Antonio. Serving the far east of the island, this aerodrome offers a flight to Kingston of about fifteen minutes, compared with roughly two hours by road.
Negril Aerodrome. Just north of the town, it is used by locals but even more by visitors who want to avoid a drive of about three hours from Ocho Rios, or five from Port Antonio.
Choosing the right airport
- Stay in Kingston or the east: Norman Manley.
- Stay in Montego Bay, Negril or the western resorts: Sangster.
- Stay near Ocho Rios or Runaway Bay: Sangster or Ian Fleming, depending on the flight.
- Want to hop between regions: a domestic aerodrome.
Fares and drive times vary, so compare both the airfare and the cost of the ground transfer. Further advice is on cheap flights and on getting around Jamaica.