Above: the soon-to-open airport terminal in Antigua (CJ Photo)

By Dana Niland
CJ Contributor

LIAT is one of several carriers readying for a move to the new, larger terminal will soon open at Antigua’s VC Bird International Airport.

Staff members of Antigua-based LIAT and other carriers participated in a full-scale simulation in the new building last week, in order to test the systems and bring to light any issues before facility’s official opening.

Dozens of employees checked in, went through immigration and security, and prepared for departure at the terminal’s gates, then collected luggage from the baggage claims and went through the customs process to simulate the other side of the experience.

Representatives from the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority, the Ministry of Civil Aviation, customs, immigration, taxi services and dispatchers all took part in the exercise before completing survey forms to provide feedback on their experience.

The new 14-gate terminal was built by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, and features modern security screening and baggage handling facilities, a VIP lounge, a mini food court, and various concession outlets.

Officials say that the terminal, which also features 46 CUTE (Common Use Terminal Systems) check-in areas and 15 self check-in kiosks, could be the most advanced in the region.