LIAT ATR at Dominica Photo by Stefan Krasowski via Flickr Creative Commons

Melville Hall Airport

Dominica has two major airports, but this is the only one in operation today. Melville Hall is located on the island's northeast coast, about two miles from Marigot, an hour by car from downtown Portsmouth, and about 45 minutes by vehicle from the heart of Roseau. The government-owned airport is operated by Dominica Air and Sea Ports Authority. Melville Hall was chosen as the site for Dominica’s primary aviation facility in 1944 because of the flatlands at its location. Construction began in 1958 and it was finally opened in November 1961. Back then, it was served by BWIA’s Dakotas. Nowadays, it offers a limited but regular number of flights to Porlamar, Antigua, Saint Lucia, Pointe-a-Pitre, Sint Maarten, and San Juan via American Eagle Airlines, LIAT, Conviasa, and BVI Airways. Charter flights are also available via Trans Anguilla Airways, St Barth Commuter, and Fly Monsterrat to Anguilla, Saint Barthelemy and Montserrat. There are no direct flights from the UK or the US.

The single passenger terminal features a spacious departures lounge. The immigration, customs and check-in areas were upgraded in 2006. There is a small restaurant that serves snacks and drinks near the car rental desks, but passengers are advised to get food before going through security. Arriving passengers can easily find taxi stands outside for onward transportation. Avis and Budget are among the international companies serving the airport, but you can also find local outfitters with similar offers. Booking in advance is recommended.

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