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Queen Beatrix International Airport (AUA/TNCA) is Aruba's primary international gateway, located about 2.5 km from downtown Oranjestad on the island's western coast. Named after the former Dutch queen, it is known for its U.S. Customs and Border Protection preclearance facility, which lets travelers clear U.S. immigration and customs before departure. Its compact single-terminal layout makes arrivals and connections relatively easy.
💡 Local Tip
If you're flying to the U.S., use the CBP Mobile Passport Control app if eligible and allow extra time for preclearance; once you land in the U.S., you'll arrive as a domestic passenger and won't need to re-clear customs unless you have a connecting international itinerary.
🚖 Getting There
Taxis and hotel shuttles are readily available outside arrivals; taxi fares are typically fixed by zone, so confirm the rate before departing. The airport is only about 2.5 km (1.5 mi) from downtown Oranjestad, a short 5–10 minute drive. Rental car counters are on-site or nearby, and Arubus public buses serve the area but are less convenient with heavy luggage.
❓ Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does Queen Beatrix International Airport have U.S. preclearance?
A: Yes. U.S.-bound passengers can clear U.S. Customs and Border Protection before boarding, so they arrive in the United States as domestic passengers.
Q: How far is the airport from Oranjestad and major hotel areas?
A: The airport is about 2.5 km (1.5 mi) from downtown Oranjestad, roughly a 5–10 minute drive. Major resort areas such as Palm Beach and Eagle Beach are typically 15–25 minutes away by taxi or shuttle.
Q: What airlines serve AUA?
A: The airport is served by a mix of U.S., Canadian, European, Latin American, and Caribbean carriers, including major airlines and regional operators. Exact routes vary by season, so check with your airline for current service.
Q: How early should I arrive for a flight?
A: For international departures, especially U.S.-bound flights using preclearance, arrive at least 3 hours before departure. For regional or non-preclearance flights, 2 hours is usually sufficient, but always confirm with your airline.
AI-generated content · Generated Sep 27, 2026 · deepseek-v4.1-flash