KRALENDIJK – Bonaire International Airport (BIA) achieved significant growth in the number of arriving and departing passengers in 2024. Total passenger numbers increased by 7.8% to 470,456, marking a 23% rise compared to 2019, the last year before the COVID pandemic. 

The fourth quarter showed particularly strong growth, with a 14% increase compared to the same period in 2023. December stood out with nearly 20% more passengers.

Passenger numbers from North America saw a remarkable increase. In the fourth quarter, this segment grew by over 44%, and by nearly 23% for the entire year. This success is attributed to new connections such as WestJet from Toronto and JetBlue from New York JFK, along with strong performances by Delta Airlines, American Airlines, and United Airlines.

The Dutch market rebounded in the fourth quarter with a 7.2% increase, resulting in a modest annual growth of 1.6%. Regional traffic within the Dutch Caribbean rose by 6.3%, driven by steady performances from Divi Divi Air and Z Air, as well as the first full year of Winair’s route to St. Maarten.

BIA’s director, Maarten van der Scheer, stated that the airport is continuing to work on enhancements. “This spring, we will deliver new runway lighting, expand the parking area, and improve the arrivals process. Additionally, we have lowered airport charges for inter-island passengers in collaboration with neighboring islands, which should contribute to more affordable regional tickets.”

Further Growth

BIA anticipates continued growth in passenger numbers for 2025, supported by new routes from JetBlue and Corendon. The airport also aims to strengthen connections with Latin America, following the success of the direct route to Barranquilla.

The figures and developments underscore Bonaire’s increasing popularity as a destination and highlight the crucial role of the airport in both regional and international connectivity.