Owen Roberts International Airport is the only way to fly to Grand Cayman Island and only one of two ways to fly into the Cayman Islands as a whole. I have flown into Owen Roberts International Airport (GCM) on Grand Cayman many times, and Charles Kirkconnell International Airport on Cayman Brac a couple of times, so I can tell you everything you need to know about flying to Grand Cayman.
The Basics of Owen Roberts International Airport
Both airports in the Cayman Islands are operated by the Cayman Islands Airports Authority. I’m going to mostly focus on Owen Roberts International Airport for this, as it is the most common airport that people fly into. Additionally, the General Aviation Terminal accepts private and charter flights, and you can get to Little Cayman from this location as well. The airlines that fly into GCM include:
- Cayman Airways
- British Airways
- United Airlines
- Delta Airlines
- American Airlines
- JetBlue
CGM Location and Transportation
Located in George Town and within walking distance of rental car agencies, Owen Roberts International Airport is convenient from anywhere on Grand Cayman Island. Flights come to and from the islands from a number of major destinations, and it’s likely that your favorite airline is one that comes here. Once you land, taxis are available, as well as limos, and you can rent a car to make your visit to the island more convenient. There are both short term and long term parking options available, and you can pay by the hour or the day.
Shopping and Dining at GCM Airport
There are a number of dining and shopping options at the airport, so you can pick up food or souvenirs before you leave.
Here are some of the shopping options you will find:
- Kirk Freeport – Duty-free shopping for jewelry, watches, leather, and more.
- Tortuga A Taste of the Cayman Islands – You don’t want to leave the airport without bringing home some of the famed rum cake that the islands are known for. You can also get duty-free liquor here.
- Last Chance Island Souvenirs, LTD – Do you need last minute gifts to take home? Make sure to stop here to get some presents for loved ones.
- Jacques Scott Duty Free – Tobacco and liquor are available here from this duty-free shop.
- Island Jewelers – If jewelry is on your radar, pop into this duty-free shop to see if anything catches your eye.
- Churchill’s Cigars – Cuban cigars are the name of the game at this shop, so stock up while you can.
If you are looking for something to eat, you will find the following at the airport:
- Subway
- Wendy’s
- The Brew Hut
In general, the airport here is conveniently located, and flights typically come in and out with ease. Since tourism is so important to the islands, you can be that they will keep this airport up and running, and there are even plans to start construction on an upgrade, which is set to be completed in 2041.