Roatan Airport (RTB) – Complete Travel Guide 2026

IATA Code

RTB

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Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport Quick Facts

Airport Information
Location Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras (approximately 12 km from Coxen Hole)
Website N/A (Airport managed by Aeropuertos de Honduras)
Airlines American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Avianca, Aerolíneas Sosa, CM Airlines, Cayman Airways
Terminals 1 compact passenger terminal handling domestic and international flights
Annual Passengers Over 700,000 passengers annually
Hub for Aerolíneas Sosa, CM Airlines (domestic connections to La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa, and San Pedro Sula)
Phone Number +504 2445-1880

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport Terminal Map and Layout

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport operates from a single, compact passenger terminal. The layout is linear and straightforward, with all facilities conveniently grouped on one level. Since there is only one terminal, navigating between airlines is seamless, and passengers can walk from the check-in counters to the departure gates within minutes. Immigration and customs facilities are located landside in the arrivals area for international passengers. The departure lounge offers a modest seating area, a small selection of shops, and a few food outlets, all accessible after security screening. Walking distances are negligible, with the furthest gate no more than a two-minute walk from the central waiting area.

Navigating Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport Terminals

Main Passenger Terminal

  • Airlines that check in here: All airlines operate from this terminal, including American Airlines, United Airlines, Delta Air Lines, Avianca, Aerolíneas Sosa, CM Airlines, and Cayman Airways.
  • Key features: The terminal is single-story with open-air walkways leading to the aircraft. Renovations have improved the check-in area, and while the space is not luxurious, it captures a relaxed island atmosphere. There are no traditional airline lounges; travelers can find general seating areas alongside basic food and beverage kiosks.
  • Dining and shopping highlights: Three small cafes operate in the public area, and two bistro-style outlets are located in the post-security transit zone. Duty-free shopping is minimal but available after security, offering local crafts, spirits, and souvenirs.

Transportation to and from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

Transportation options from the airport primarily center around taxis, private shuttles, and rental cars. The island's compact geography means most resort areas in West Bay, West End, Sandy Bay, and Coxen Hole are reachable within 20 to 30 minutes. Public bus services are limited, and major ride-sharing apps do not have a consistent presence on the island, making pre-arranged transfers or local taxis the most reliable option.

Getting to and from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport by Car

Driving on Roatan is an adventure, with narrow roads and steep hills. Traffic is generally light, but Congestion can occur in Coxen Hole and near the cruise ship terminal on busy port days. The airport has a designated parking area directly outside the terminal building. While long-term parking rates are not strictly tiered into formal economy or premium lots, parking is affordable and secure, generally costing around $5 per day. Many travelers choose to book rentals in advance or utilize hotel park-and-fly packages. There is an informal waiting area for private vehicles near the arrivals zone, but no structured cell phone lot. Curbside drop-off operates with a strict no-waiting policy; vehicles cannot be left unattended in front of the terminal, and security personnel will direct drivers to the parking lot if they plan to be away from the car for more than a few minutes during drop-off.

Getting to and from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport by Rideshare or Taxi

While international rideshare apps like Uber have extremely limited or no operations on Roatan, the airport is well-served by a cooperative of local taxis. The designated taxi pickup area is located immediately outside the arrivals hall. Travelers do not need to take a shuttle to reach the taxi stand; it is a short walk from baggage claim. Fares are typically negotiated or fixed by the driver collective. Estimated fares to West Bay are around $25-$30, while Coxen Hole and French Harbour usually cost between $10 and $15. Payment is generally expected in cash (USD or Honduran Lempiras), so ensure you have small bills ready.

Getting to and from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport by Public Transportation

Public bus options are limited and primarily used by locals. "Colectivo" minibuses run along the main road at the airport entrance but do not enter the airport loop. To catch a public bus, travelers must walk approximately 200 meters to the main paved road. The service is infrequent and not recommended for those with heavy luggage or strict hotel check-in times. For most tourists, shared shuttles or private resort transfers booked at the terminal or in advance offer superior value and comfort compared to public transit.

Route First Bus/Train Last Bus/Train Frequency Fare
Colectivo (Main Road to Coxen Hole) 6:00 AM 6:00 PM Irregular (approx. every 45-60 min) $1-$2

Key Amenities at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

ATMs

ATMs accepting international debit and credit cards are located in the main public check-in hall. There are usually two machines available, dispensing both US Dollars and Honduran Lempiras. It is wise to withdraw cash here, as many island vendors do not accept cards.

Lost and Found

Lost and Found is managed by the airport administration office. If an item is lost inside the terminal or on an aircraft, contact the specific airline first. For items lost in the public areas, visit the information desk or call the main airport line. Response times can vary, so reporting immediately is crucial.

Luggage Services

Baggage carts are available for a small rental fee, typically $2-$3 per use. A luggage wrapping service exists in the check-in area for security-conscious travelers, with pricing starting around $10 per bag to protect against tampering and damage.

Pets

Pets must remain in carriers at all times within the terminal. The airport does not feature a dedicated indoor pet relief area. Travelers with service animals or pets should exercise them in the grassy areas outside the main entrance prior to passing through security.

Showers

There are no public shower facilities available at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport. No lounges currently offer shower pods. Divers and travelers seeking refreshment before a flight are advised to arrange late checkout with their hotel or visit a nearby beach club beforehand.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are minimal. While some vendors accept US Dollars, it is recommended to use the ATMs to withdraw local currency, as dedicated exchange counters with competitive rates are not prominent fixtures in the terminal. Pre-arranging currency or carrying small USD bills is the best strategy.

Smoking Area

The terminal interior is entirely non-smoking. Smokers must step outside the terminal curbside to the designated open-air zones before entering security. There are no smoking lounges accessible after security screening.

WiFi

Complimentary WiFi is available throughout the terminal. The connection is generally suitable for messaging and email, though bandwidth can be inconsistent during peak arrival hours. To connect, select the "RTB_Free_WiFi" network and accept the terms via a pop-up browser window. Electrical outlets and charging stations are somewhat scarce, so carrying a portable power bank is highly recommended.

Other Amenities

An information desk is located in the check-in hall, offering brochures for local tours and dive shops. Medical services consist of a basic first-aid station. The island does not have a dedicated hospital inside the airport, but clinics in Coxen Hole are only 15 minutes away. There is no dedicated chapel or prayer room; however, the natural outdoor atmosphere provides quiet space for reflection.

Airport Lounges at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport is a utilitarian island facility without the luxury airline lounges found in major international hubs. The airline portfolio and Priority Pass programs do not currently list a dedicated club lounge or credit card-affiliated lounge accessible to passengers at this airport. Travelers accustomed to large network lounges should adjust expectations and enjoy the small food shacks and open-air patios airside instead.

Lounge Name Location Access Method Day Pass Cost Key Features
No Lounge Available N/A N/A $0 Limited airside cafe seating; no business centers or showers.

Other Airports in the Region

Golosón International Airport (LCE) – La Ceiba

  • Distance to Roatan: A 20-minute flight or 70-minute ferry from Roatan to La Ceiba.
  • Best for: Access to the mainland gateway, Pico Bonito National Park, and the Cayos Cochinos marine reserve.
  • Unique advantages: Larger domestic network and a stepping stone to the ancient Mayan ruins of Copán.

Ramón Villeda Morales International Airport (SAP) – San Pedro Sula

  • Distance to Roatan: A 45-minute direct flight.
  • Best for: International business hubs and connections to the western highlands.
  • Unique advantages: Larger modern terminal with lounge facilities and a wider selection of international carriers.

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport Overview

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport serves as the primary aviation gateway to Roatan, the largest of Honduras's Bay Islands. The facility is named after Juan Manuel Gálvez, a prominent former president of Honduras, though it is often simply referred to as Roatan Airport. It sits just a short 20 to 30-minute transfer from the famous West Bay beach and the diving-centric West End. The airport is civilian-operated and plays a crucial role in supporting the island's tourism-driven economy, which relies heavily on divers and cruise ship passengers. Despite its small size and single terminal, it contributes to managing a flow that sees aircraft from major North American and Latin American cities.

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport Postal Code

  • Full Postal Code: 34101
  • City: Roatan
  • Province/State: Bay Islands
  • Country: Honduras
  • Complete Mailing Address: Carretera Principal, Roatan, Islas de la Bahía, 34101, Honduras

Duty Free and Shopping at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

A small duty-free shop operates after the security checkpoint. The selection focuses on local Honduran rums, coffee, handicrafts, and cigars. Shopping options are limited compared to continental hubs. The cafes offer basic snacks such as baleadas (local tortillas with beans and cheese) and fried chicken, but prices are significantly higher than similar offerings outside the airport perimeter. For authentic souvenirs like wooden carvings or hammocks, purchasing in the West End or at the Yaba Ding Ding souvenir shops offers better value, but the airport is a convenient backup for last-minute gifts.

Product Category Approximate Price (USD)
Flor de Caña Rum (12 Year) Spirits $18 - $22
Honduran Coffee Beans Gourmet Food $10 - $15
Local Cigars (Box of 5) Tobacco $25 - $35
Hand-painted Coconut Art Souvenirs $8 - $12

Security Wait Times at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

The airport is small, and security lines generally move quickly, but they can become bottlenecks when large aircraft from the US land or depart simultaneously. There is no TSA PreCheck, Global Entry, or CLEAR kiosk available at this airport. Standard security protocols for liquids and electronics apply. Biometric screening is minimal, and manual ID checks are standard. To expedite the process, have printed boarding passes ready, as mobile connectivity might be slow at the scanners.

Terminal Typical Wait Time Peak Hours
Main Terminal (All Flights) 10–20 minutes 11:30 AM – 2:00 PM

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport Drop Off and Pick Up Information

  • Departures Drop-off: Location is directly outside the main entrance. No parking is permitted at the curb; vehicles waiting longer than 5 minutes risk a fine and will be directed to the main parking lot.
  • Arrivals Pick-up: Taxis and hotel shuttles line up directly outside the baggage claim exit. Private vehicles can park here briefly for loading only.
  • Cell Phone Lot: Informal; the main parking lot serves as the default staging area. Wait time should be minimized as the lot connects directly to the arrivals curb via a pedestrian walkway.

Flight Routes and Airlines at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

  • Primary Airlines: The airport hosts direct routes from North America primarily through American Airlines (Miami, Dallas), United Airlines (Houston, Newark), and Delta Air Lines (Atlanta). Avianca provides connections via San Salvador and San Pedro Sula, while Cayman Airways connects seasonally to Grand Cayman.
  • Domestic Destinations: Aerolíneas Sosa and CM Airlines offer frequent short-hop flights to La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa (Toncontín), and San Pedro Sula.
  • Seasonal Flights: Charter operations increase during the winter months. Booking regional domestic hops exactly 4 weeks in advance typically yields the best seat availability.

Getting to and from Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

The island’s main road connects the airport east to French Harbour and west to Coxen Hole, West End, and West Bay. Traffic moves slowly through the main towns but distances are short. Car rentals and taxis are the backbone of visitor transport.

Car Rental at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

Renting a vehicle offers ocean-to-jungle freedom, with standard economy sedans going for about €46-56 (approx. $50-$60) per day when booked a month ahead. Most visitors opt for economy 4-doors, though SUVs are highly recommended for un-paved roads leading to remote East End beaches. Companies operating directly at or adjacent to the airport include Avis, Alamo, SIXT, and the highly-rated local provider Dolphin Rental Car, located just 50 meters west of the airport at Dolphin Plaza. Booking a 4x4 SUV in advance is critical during the high-winter season as fleets are small.

Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport Taxi Services

Taxis serve as the primary "instant" transport. Expect a ride to West End or West Bay to cost around $25-$30. Most drivers accept US Dollars but are unlikely to provide change for large bills. Negotiate the fare before entering the vehicle, as meters are uncommon. Groups of more than four may require a minivan taxi, so confirm vehicle size ahead of loading the luggage.

Private Car Services at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

For travelers seeking fully tailored, air-conditioned comfort without the stress of driving, pre-booked private transfer services can be secured for approximately $106.67 per group of up to six passengers. These drivers often double as informal guides, suggesting stops at scenic lookouts or mangrove tours en route to the hotel. It remains the most reliable option for groups who value predictability over cost-saving.

Bus Services at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

There is no direct hotel shuttle bus for the general public. Resort shuttles are private and must be arranged via the specific hotel. The only public buses, colectivos, require walking out to the main road and are absent outside of daylight hours.

Hotel Shuttles

Most major resorts, especially those in Pristine Bay or the West Bay strip, offer complimentary or fee-based roundtrip transfers. Guests should confirm pickup logistics via email at least 48 hours before arrival. The driver will stand in the arrivals plaza holding a placard with the hotel or guest's name.

Parking at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

  • Short-term Parking: Located adjacent to the terminal. Rates are approximately $1 per hour or $5 per 24-hour period.
  • Long-term Parking: Same lot serves long-term needs. Security patrols stop periodically, but valuables should never be left visible.
  • Payment Methods: Cash is preferred at the exit kiosk.
  • EV Charging: Electric vehicle charging stations are not currently available on the airport grounds.

Places to Explore near Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

  • West End (15-20 min drive): The island's social hotspot, packed with wooden docks, dive shops, and sunset bars like Sundowners.
  • West Bay (20-25 min drive): Often rated as one of the best beaches in Central America. Crystal-clear water with the Mesoamerican Reef just a few fin-kicks from shore, accessible via a nominal entrance fee or direct hotel access.
  • French Harbour (15 min drive): A fishing community that contrasts growing resort developments with traditional bay island life.
  • East End (45-60 min drive): An off-the-beaten-path escape featuring dense mangroves, the Garifuna community in Punta Gorda, and Camp Bay Beach.

Local Weather and Best Time to Visit Roatan

Roatan's climate is tropical, with year-round swim-friendly temperatures. Peak tourist season runs from mid-December through April, when the weather is drier and cooler. Rainy season runs from October to January, with occasional punctuated tropical downpours.

  • Dry Season (Feb–Apr): 25°C–29°C (77°F–84°F). Low humidity, perfect for diving.
  • Green Season (Oct–Jan): 23°C–27°C (73°F–81°F). The "wet" months still boast plenty of sunshine, often in the mornings.
  • Summer (May–Sep): 27°C–32°C (81°F–90°F). Less crowded, with brief afternoon showers keeping the flora lush.

Essential Travel Tips

  • Arrival Time: Arrive at the airport at least 2 hours before international flights and 90 minutes for domestic. The main road can logjam if a fuel truck is blocking a narrow path, so buffer your transfer time.
  • Cash is King: While resorts accept Visa and Mastercard, smaller island restaurants, dive shops, and taxis rely heavily on cash. The airport ATMs dispense Lempiras and USD, providing a crucial financial lifeline upon arrival.
  • Language: Spanish is the national language, but English is widely spoken on the Bay Islands. Road signs are predominantly in English.
  • Driving Documentation: A valid driver’s license from your home country is accepted for car rentals. An International Driving Permit is generally not required for tourist rentals.

About Roatan

Roatan is the bustling heart of the Bay Islands, sitting on the doorstep of the world's second-largest barrier reef, the Mesoamerican Reef. While the Port of Roatan in Coxen Hole (only 5 minutes from the airport) welcomes massive cruise ships, the island’s true soul lives in the colorful, dive-centric wooden walkways of the West End. Fresh seafood, particularly conch soup and fried snapper alongside "tajadas" (fried plantain chips), defines the local menu. As a travel base, Roatan offers something mainland Honduras lacks: the safety and convenience of a compact, walkable, and generally tranquil English-speaking island where divers and beach-lovers can effortlessly utilize Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport as their arrival hub.

Start Your Journey at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport

Whether you are arriving to sink beneath the waves of the reef or explore the mangroves of the East End, your journey vehicle should match your adventure. With roads that twist and turn over the volcanic spine of the island, a reliable 4x4 SUV or spacious economy car waiting outside customs transforms your trip. Secure an affordable, pre-booked car today directly at Juan Manuel Gálvez International Airport and skip the taxi queues to let the island exploration start the moment the wheels touch the tarmac.

Have Questions?

Frequently Asked Questions about Roatan Airport (RTB) Airport

Everything you need to know before traveling through Roatan Airport (RTB)

Roatan Airport (RTB), officially known as Juan Manuel Galvez International Airport, is located on the western tip of the island of Roatan, approximately 3 miles east of the community of Coxen Hole, the island's main commercial center. The airport sits right along the Caribbean coastline, offering stunning views of the turquoise waters during approach and departure. The physical address is Carretera Principal, Roatan, Bay Islands, Honduras. It serves as the primary aviation gateway for the entire Bay Islands region, including Utila and Guanaja, making it a crucial access point for tourists heading to West Bay, West End, and other popular beach destinations. Its proximity to major resorts and the cruise ship terminal makes it extremely convenient for visitors.

The IATA code for Roatan Airport is RTB. The airport's full official name is Juan Manuel Galvez International Airport, but in all airline reservation systems, ticketing platforms, and baggage tags, it is identified exclusively by the three-letter code RTB. When booking flights, always ensure your ticket reads 'RTB' to confirm you are flying directly to Roatan Island, not to the mainland city of San Pedro Sula or La Ceiba. The ICAO code, used primarily by pilots and air traffic control, is MHRO. Knowing the code RTB is essential for navigating flight booking engines and arranging accurate car rental or shuttle reservations upon arrival.

Roatan Airport (RTB) is centrally positioned for island access. The airport is roughly 1 mile from Coxen Hole's city center. The popular West End village, known for dining and diving, is approximately 5.5 miles away, typically a 15 to 20-minute drive. The famous West Bay Beach resort area is about 7 miles away, taking around 20 to 30 minutes depending on the single coastal road's traffic. French Harbour, located on the island's southern side, is approximately 8 miles from the terminal. The easternmost points like Camp Bay or Paya Bay can take over an hour to reach due to the island's elongated shape and narrow roadways.

Roatan Airport (RTB) operates with a single, compact passenger terminal building. Despite being an international airport, the facility is relatively small, managing both domestic and international flights under one roof. There is no separate terminal for arrivals and departures; the building is divided into two levels. The ground floor is dedicated to arrivals, including immigration and baggage claim, while the upper floor handles departures, check-in counters, and the security screening checkpoint. A small executive aviation terminal exists for private jets, but commercial travelers will solely use the main terminal. This single-terminal layout makes navigating RTB straightforward, though it can become crowded when multiple large flights arrive simultaneously.

Roatan Airport serves several major North and Central American carriers. U.S. airlines include American Airlines with flights from Miami and Dallas, United Airlines from Houston, and Delta Air Lines from Atlanta. Sun Country and Southwest offer seasonal services. Canadian airlines like Air Canada and WestJet operate flights from Toronto and Montreal. The local carrier Aerolineas Sosa provides connections to La Ceiba, Tegucigalpa, and San Pedro Sula. CM Airlines also offers domestic regional flights. TAG Airlines connects Roatan to Guatemala City. During peak winter months, frequencies increase significantly, with multiple daily flights from the U.S. bringing divers and beachgoers to the island.

Yes, Roatan Airport (RTB) is a fully certified international airport. It features customs and immigration facilities operated by the Honduran government, allowing direct flights from the United States, Canada, and other Central American countries to clear customs on the island. The runway was extended to approximately 7,350 feet to accommodate commercial jet aircraft like the Boeing 737 and Airbus A320. Upon arrival, international passengers must pass through immigration and declare goods at customs. The facility also handles a significant amount of general aviation traffic and private jets. It is not, however, a 24-hour operation; the airport typically closes overnight, so late-night or extremely early morning arrivals are rare.

The primary methods from Roatan Airport to West Bay or West End are taxi and pre-arranged shuttles. Official airport taxis are available directly outside the arrivals door; a fare to West End typically costs around $20 to $25, while West Bay runs approximately $25 to $30. There is no Uber or Lyft service on the island. Private shuttle services can be booked in advance through tour operators or resorts, often providing air-conditioned comfort and a driver waiting with a sign. A taxi colectivo (shared minivan) provides a cheaper option for locals, but taxis are the standard choice for visitors. The roads are paved but narrow, and drivers frequently stop for pedestrians.

Public transportation is not available directly at the Roatan Airport terminal building. Roatan does not have a municipal bus system serving the airport. The most common forms of local transport are taxis and minibuses known as colectivos, but these are not officially sanctioned to queue right outside the terminal exit. Travelers often walk approximately a quarter mile to the main road outside the airport to flag down a passing shared minibus for a cheaper ride, but this is impractical with luggage. For a seamless transfer, relying on the regulated airport taxis or booking a private shuttle in advance is the most reliable method.

A taxi from Roatan Airport (RTB) to the Port of Roatan cruise terminal in Coxen Hole typically costs around $10 to $15. The distance is very short, approximately 1 to 2 miles, making the ride only about 5 minutes. The alternate Mahogany Bay cruise port, operated by Carnival Corporation, is slightly farther, located near Dixon Cove, and a taxi fare there generally ranges from $15 to $20. There are no meters in the taxis, so always negotiate and confirm the price with the driver before entering the vehicle. Cash is required, and while Honduran Lempira is accepted, U.S. dollars are widely preferred for taxi payments.

Ride-sharing apps like Uber and Lyft do not operate on the island of Roatan or anywhere in Honduras. Do not rely on these apps for transportation when you land. The island operates on a taxi-based transportation system with official airport taxis and a local taxi association that controls service. You can either use the official white airport taxis stationed at the curb or book a private driver through a local company. Some travelers attempt to use local taxi apps like 'inDriver,' but the availability is extremely sparse. The most reliable method is to agree on a fare with an official taxi driver directly at the airport taxi stand.

Yes, shuttle services are widely available at Roatan Airport. Most major resorts and hotels, particularly those in West Bay, Pristine Bay, and French Harbour, offer complimentary or paid shuttle services for their guests; booking this transfer in advance through the hotel is essential. Private shuttle operators, such as Victor Bodden Tours or Roatan Shuttle, offer shared and private van services that can be reserved online prior to arrival. These shuttle drivers usually wait in the unroofed area just outside the arrivals hall holding a placard with your name. Shared shuttles provide a cost-effective option, typically priced around $15 per person to West End.

Roatan Airport hosts several major international and local car rental agencies. Avis, Budget, Hertz, Thrifty, and Enterprise operate desks or counters inside the arrivals hall. Local agencies like Econo Rent-A-Car Roatan and Avis Roatan also provide strong competition and personalized service. Because the airport is small, the rental counters are positioned literally steps from the baggage claim area. Additionally, smaller local providers like Caribbean Rent-A-Car, often with off-airport lots a short shuttle ride away, are options. It is highly advisable to book in advance during peak seasons (December to April) as the island's fleet of vehicles is limited and sells out quickly.

The car rental counters are located directly inside the arrivals hall at Roatan Airport. As soon as you exit the baggage claim area on the ground floor, you will see the desks for the major international brands like Avis, Budget, and Hertz directly in front of you or to your immediate left. There is no sprawling 'consolidated rental car center' that requires a shuttle like at large U.S. airports. The actual rental cars are parked in a secured lot directly across the short drop-off lane in front of the terminal, meaning you can complete the paperwork, walk out the front door, and be directed to your vehicle within a 50-foot distance, making the pickup process extremely fast.

Yes, booking a rental car in advance at Roatan Airport is strongly recommended. The island has a finite inventory of rental vehicles, often consisting of compact SUVs and economy cars suitable for the mixed road conditions. During the high season (December through March) and major holidays, the fleet can be completely sold out weeks in advance. Relying on walk-up availability risks long waits or having no cars available at all. Pre-booking locks in your rate, often saving money compared to walk-up counter prices, and guarantees the vehicle type you need, especially important if you require a 4x4 for the island's occasional unpaved side roads and potholes.

To rent a car at Roatan Airport, you must present a valid driver's license from your home country. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is not strictly required by law for tourists renting cars in Honduras, but a valid domestic license printed in the Roman alphabet is necessary. A passport is required for identification purposes. You will also need a major credit card (Visa or Mastercard are standard) for the security deposit; debit cards are often accepted but may trigger a significant hold on funds, sometimes up to $500 to $2,000. Cash deposits are rarely accepted by the major chains. Ensure your credit card has enough available balance to cover the damage waiver hold.

The minimum age to rent a car at Roatan Airport is typically 21 years old, but this varies by supplier. Drivers between the ages of 21 and 24 almost always incur a 'young driver surcharge,' which can range from $10 to $25 per day, depending on the rental company. Some local agencies may allow 18-year-old military or government personnel to rent with official orders, but this is an exception. To avoid the surcharge, the renter usually needs to be at least 25 years old. It is crucial to check the specific age policy of your chosen car rental company on our comparison platform, as local Honduran providers may enforce different rules than international chains.

Parking at Roatan Airport is managed in a main lot located directly across from the terminal building. The parking area is not a large multi-story garage but a flat, secured open-air lot. Short-term parking is priced around $2 per hour, while long-term daily rates typically average between $5 and $10 per day. Payment is usually collected at a manned booth upon exit, and they accept both U.S. dollars and Lempira. The lot is convenient because it's a literal 1-minute walk to the check-in counters, eliminating the need for shuttle buses. Despite being an island airport, the lot is well-lit and monitored by security personnel.

Yes, long-term parking is available at Roatan Airport in the main lot directly opposite the terminal. There is no separate economy lot; the single lot serves both short-term and long-term parkers. It is an unroofed, fenced lot situated less than 100 feet from the terminal entrance. Weekly rates average around $50 to $70. Vehicles are exposed to the tropical sun and salty air, so sunshades are a good idea for extended stays. The lot is guarded, but standard precautions apply: do not leave valuables visible. You do not need to pre-book a parking space—simply pull a ticket upon entry and pay at the booth when you return.

Roatan Airport does not have a designated cell phone waiting lot. The airport is relatively small and traffic congestion is rarely severe enough to necessitate a remote free waiting area. Drivers picking up arriving passengers often wait in the short-term parking lot; if you can complete the pickup in under 15 minutes, you likely won't be charged a fee. Alternatively, the road approaching the airport has several informal pull-off areas near the entrance gate where vehicles commonly pause. Due to the heat, avoid idling for long periods; it is better to time your arrival with the flight's actual landing using a flight tracker than to wait at the curb, as security actively keeps the lane moving.

Yes, Roatan Airport provides free WiFi throughout the terminal building, including the departure lounge and arrivals area. The network is an open, unsecured connection usually named 'RTB Free WiFi' or something similar. Air conditioning is limited in some areas, but the WiFi signal is generally reliable for basic web browsing, messaging apps like WhatsApp, and checking emails. However, as bandwidth on the island is restricted, the connection can become slow during peak travel times when multiple flights are boarding simultaneously. Do not rely on it for large file downloads or streaming high-definition video. It is sufficient to confirm ride arrangements or pull up electronic boarding passes.

Roatan Airport features a single VIP lounge available to passengers departing on both domestic and international flights. Access is typically granted to Priority Pass, LoungeKey, and select cardholders, though it occasionally fills up due to its compact size. The lounge offers air-conditioned seating, light snacks, complimentary beverages, and a television. Travelers without a membership can usually purchase a day pass at the door for approximately $25 to $30, subject to space availability. The lounge is located airside, after the security screening checkpoint. The amenities are simple compared to major hub lounges but provide a quiet reprieve from the noisy, warm terminal gate areas.

Yes, ATMs and currency exchange services are available at Roatan Airport. Multiple ATMs are located in the arrivals hall, primarily operated by BAC Credomatic and Banpais. These ATMs dispense Honduran Lempira and sometimes U.S. dollars. They accept international Visa, Mastercard, and Plus network cards. A currency exchange window is also open during flight arrival times, allowing you to convert U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars, or Euros into Lempira. Exchange rates at the airport are less favorable than at banks in town, so it's advisable to only exchange a small amount for taxi fare and tips, then use a bank ATM in Coxen Hole for better rates if needed. Most taxis and tours accept U.S. dollars directly.

For international flights departing Roatan Airport, airlines generally require passengers to check in at least 2 to 3 hours before departure, especially for flights to the U.S. or Canada. The check-in counters close strictly 60 to 75 minutes prior to departure. While the airport is small, the security and check-in queues can be surprisingly slow when one or two jumbo jets are handling passengers simultaneously. For domestic flights within Honduras, arriving 1.5 hours early is sufficient. There is no mass transit or shuttle train to a distant gate, but late morning and early afternoon are peak times with multiple departures, creating a bottleneck at the single security lane, so always allow a buffer.

Yes, Roatan Airport has a duty-free shop located in the international departures area, after security screening. The shop offers the standard selection of liquors, perfumes, cosmetics, and fine chocolates at tax-free prices. You will also find a selection of local Honduran and Roatan products, such as coffee, cigars, and artisan crafts, which make for practical last-minute souvenirs. Additionally, there is a small gift shop selling snacks, magazines, and beachwear. Keep in mind that the selection is modest compared to airport hubs in Miami or Houston. Liquids purchased at the duty-free store are sealed in security tamper-evident bags, which is essential if you have a connecting flight after leaving the island.

Roatan Airport is equipped to assist travelers with disabilities. The terminal features ramps for wheelchair access at the main entrances and accessible restrooms. Airlines operating at RTB offer wheelchair services and guidance for passengers with mobility issues, but these must be requested in advance through the airline at the time of booking. The terminal's compact size means walking distances from the curb to the gate are short. However, boarding typically involves climbing stairs rolled up to the aircraft on the tarmac; jet bridges are not standard. Passengers requiring a lift mechanism should confirm arrangements with the airline 48 hours prior to travel, as the necessary equipment may not be perpetually standing by at a small island airport.
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