Overview of Douglas-Charles Airport

Douglas-Charles Airport, also known as Melville Hall Airport, is located on the northeastern coast of Dominica. It is the primary airport serving the island and handles both domestic and international flights. The airport has a single runway that measures 1,570 meters in length and 45 meters in width.

Opened in 1961, the airport was originally used for military purposes before it was converted for civilian use. Over the years, the airport has undergone several upgrades and expansions to accommodate increasing passenger traffic. In 2010, a new terminal building was constructed, which includes modern amenities such as restaurants, shops, and a VIP lounge.

The airport serves as a gateway to Dominica’s lush rainforests, pristine beaches, and natural hot springs. It offers regular flights to destinations such as Antigua, Barbados, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Puerto Rico, St. Lucia, and St. Maarten. There are also occasional charter flights to other destinations in the Caribbean and North America.

Douglas-Charles Airport operates around the clock, with a capacity to handle up to 300,000 passengers per year. It has a range of services to ensure the comfort and safety of travelers, including baggage handling, customs and immigration, and medical facilities. The airport is also equipped with firefighting and rescue equipment to deal with emergencies.

Whether you’re visiting Dominica for business or pleasure, Douglas-Charles Airport provides a convenient and efficient way to get to this beautiful island. Its location, facilities, and services make it an ideal choice for travelers looking for a stress-free travel experience.

Terminals at Douglas-Charles Airport

Douglas-Charles Airport, formerly known as Melville Hall Airport, is located in the northeastern part of the island of Dominica. It is the main airport serving the island and has one terminal building that operates both international and domestic flights.

The terminal building at Douglas-Charles Airport was recently renovated and expanded to accommodate the growing number of passengers. The new building has modern facilities and services, including a duty-free shop, restaurants, and lounges. The terminal also has free Wi-Fi, charging stations, and other amenities to make passengers’ travel experience more comfortable.

The airport has a separate gate area for international and domestic flights. Passengers traveling within the Caribbean are handled at the domestic gate, while those traveling to and from Europe, North America, and other international destinations are processed at the international gate.

The airport has four check-in counters for international flights and two for domestic flights. The security checkpoint is located just after the check-in counters, and passengers are required to pass through it before entering the departure lounge.

After passing through security, passengers can access the departure lounge, which offers a panoramic view of the runway. The lounge has several seating areas, including VIP lounges for passengers traveling in business or first-class. The lounge also has a small bar and snack area.

Boarding gates are located at both ends of the departure lounge, and passengers are required to board their flights through these gates. The airport has two jet bridges, which are used for boarding and deplaning passengers from larger aircraft.

In conclusion, Douglas-Charles Airport has one modern and well-equipped terminal building that serves both international and domestic flights. Passengers can enjoy various amenities and facilities, including duty-free shopping, restaurants, lounges, and free Wi-Fi. The airport also has separate gates for international and domestic flights, four check-in counters for international flights, and two for domestic flights. The lounge area offers a great view of the runway, with several seating areas and VIP lounges for business and first-class passengers.

Airlines and Destinations

The following airlines operate from Douglas-Charles Airport: Air Antilles, LIAT, Seaborne Airlines, and Winair.

Air Antilles offers flights to Guadeloupe and Martinique, while LIAT’s destinations include Antigua, Barbados, St. Kitts, and other Caribbean islands.

Seaborne Airlines flies to San Juan, Puerto Rico, as well as to various destinations in the United States, including Fort Lauderdale, Miami, and St. Croix.

Winair operates flights to St. Maarten, Saba, and St. Eustatius.

Please note that some routes may be seasonal and subject to change. It is recommended to contact the airline directly for up-to-date information on available routes.

Transportation Options at Douglas-Charles Airport

Upon arriving at Douglas-Charles Airport, visitors will find a variety of transportation options available to help them reach their destination. One popular option is the airport shuttle, which offers affordable rates and convenient pick-up and drop-off locations. Visitors can book a shuttle in advance or upon arrival at the airport.

For those who prefer to have their own mode of transportation, car rentals are also available at the airport. Several reputable rental companies have offices on site, including Avis, Hertz, and Budget. Visitors can easily reserve a car online or by phone prior to their arrival.

In addition to shuttles and car rentals, there are also shuttle bus services that operate between the airport and various cities and towns in the surrounding area. These shuttle buses run at regular intervals and are a great way to get around if you don’t have your own vehicle.

For those who prefer public transport, there are several train lines that connect Douglas-Charles Airport to nearby cities and towns. The Dominica State Railway offers daily services to Roseau, Portsmouth, and other destinations throughout the island.

Finally, taxi services are also available at the airport for those who want a more personalized form of transportation. These taxis are licensed and regulated by the government, so visitors can be sure they are getting a safe and reliable ride.

No matter what your transportation needs may be, Douglas-Charles Airport has a variety of options to choose from. Whether you’re looking for an affordable shuttle service, a convenient car rental, or a comfortable train ride, you’re sure to find what you need to get where you’re going.

Parking at Douglas-Charles Airport

Douglas-Charles Airport offers two types of parking: short-term and long-term. The short-term parking lot is located directly in front of the terminal building and is ideal for those who need to park for a few hours or pick up/drop off passengers.

The long-term parking lot is situated a short distance from the terminal building and serves as a convenient option for those who require parking for several days or more. The long-term parking lot is monitored 24/7 by security personnel, which ensures that your vehicle is safe and secure during your absence.

The rates for short-term parking start at $1 for the first hour and $2 for each additional hour, while the maximum daily rate is $15. For long-term parking, rates start at $10 for the first day and $5 for each additional day, with a maximum weekly rate of $40.

Additionally, there are designated parking spaces for individuals with disabilities. These parking spots are located close to the terminal building and are clearly marked with signage.

Overall, Douglas-Charles Airport offers convenient and reasonably-priced parking options to cater to the needs of all travelers.

Check-In Procedures at Douglas-Charles Airport

At Douglas-Charles Airport, there are various ways to check-in before your flight. The first option is online check-in, which is available 24 hours before departure. Passengers can simply go to the airline’s website, enter their booking reference, and select their seats. Once this is done, a boarding pass can be printed or saved on a mobile device.
For those who prefer self-service check-in kiosks, there are several located throughout the airport. These kiosks allow passengers to check-in, print their boarding pass, and even drop off their luggage. This option is ideal for those who already have their baggage tags printed or if they’re traveling with only hand luggage.
Lastly, there is the traditional check-in counter where passengers can approach an airport staff member who will check them in and provide them with their boarding pass. This method is useful for those who have complex travel itineraries or require special assistance such as wheelchair service.
Regardless of the chosen method, it’s important to arrive at the airport with sufficient time to complete the check-in process, clear security, and get to the gate. For domestic flights, it’s recommended to arrive at least one hour before departure, and for international flights, two to three hours. By following these check-in guidelines, passengers can ensure a smooth and stress-free start to their journey from Douglas-Charles Airport.

Ensuring Your Security at Douglas-Charles Airport

At Douglas-Charles Airport, security protocols are taken very seriously to ensure the safety of all passengers. All luggage is screened using modern and advanced technology before being loaded onto planes. It is important to note that prohibited items such as weapons, liquids over 100ml, and sharp objects should not be brought through security.

To make your security check as smooth as possible, arrive at the airport with plenty of time before your flight and have all necessary documents ready for inspection. Remove any metallic items such as keys, belts, and jewelry before going through security. Shoes, jackets, and hats will also need to be removed and placed in a tray for screening.

By following these simple tips and adhering to the security procedures at Douglas-Charles Airport, you can help to ensure a safe and stress-free travel experience.

Customs and Immigration

Upon arrival at Douglas-Charles Airport, all passengers are required to complete an immigration form and pass through immigration control.
Passengers will need to present a valid passport and visa if required.
After clearing immigration, passengers can then proceed to baggage claim and customs.
In the customs area, bags may be subject to inspection by authorities.
For departing passengers, the process is similar but in reverse order.
Passengers must go through customs and security checks before proceeding to the immigration control.
It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport at least two hours prior to their scheduled departure time to allow ample time for the customs and immigration process.

Amenities

  • Free Wi-Fi throughout the airport
  • Several food and beverage options, including a restaurant and snack bars
  • Duty-free shopping for international travelers
  • ATMs and currency exchange services
  • Public restrooms and shower facilities
  • Wheelchair accessibility and assistance for disabled passengers
  • In-flight catering services for private jets

Accessibility Services

Douglas-Charles Airport offers a range of facilities and services for passengers with disabilities or mobility issues. These services are designed to make their travel experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.

Passengers can request assistance with check-in, baggage handling, and boarding, as well as transport in and around the airport. The airport also has specially designated parking spaces for people with disabilities, as well as accessible restrooms, elevators and ramps.

Connecting Flights at Douglas-Charles Airport

Connecting flights at Douglas-Charles Airport require passengers to go through immigration and customs.
Passengers must collect their luggage and proceed to the transit counter where they will receive a boarding pass for their connecting flight.
It is important to leave enough time between flights, as the process can take up to an hour or more.
To ensure a smooth transition, it is recommended to check the baggage policy of the airline and pack accordingly.
Additionally, keeping important travel documents such as passports and boarding passes easily accessible can help save time.

Baggage Claim and Lost Property

Upon arrival, passengers must proceed to the baggage claim area located on the lower level of the terminal. Baggage carousels are labeled with the corresponding flight numbers.

If your baggage is missing upon arrival, report it immediately to the airport’s lost and found desk located near the baggage claim area. You must provide a detailed description of your missing bag and your contact information.

If your baggage is damaged, report it to your airline’s baggage service desk before leaving the airport. The airline will provide you with a damage report to fill out, which you must keep for future reference.

Emergency and Medical Facilities

Douglas-Charles Airport has a well-equipped fire department that operates on a 24-hour basis. The team is trained to handle any kind of emergency situation such as aircraft fires, fuel spills, and medical emergencies.

For medical emergencies, the airport has a medical clinic staffed with qualified doctors and nurses. The clinic is equipped with modern medical equipment to handle minor and major medical issues. In case of extreme medical emergencies, there are ambulance services available to transport patients to the nearest hospital.

Passengers with special needs are also catered for at the airport. Wheelchairs are available upon request, and the airport staff is always ready to assist passengers with mobility issues. In conclusion, Douglas-Charles Airport has reliable emergency and medical facilities to ensure the safety and well-being of all passengers.

Hotel Accommodations

There are several hotel accommodations available within or near Douglas-Charles Airport. Visitors can choose from a range of options, from budget-friendly to high-end luxury hotels.

Some of the hotels near the airport include Atlantique View Resort and Spa, which is 0.5 miles away, and The Champs, which is 1.6 miles away. Additionally, guests may consider staying at the Main Road Apartment, which is about 5.4 miles away.

Another excellent option is the Hummingbird Inn, which is approximately 6.9 miles away. Lastly, visitors may want to consider staying at the Hibiscus Valley Inn, which is located about 10.6 miles away from the airport. These hotels offer convenient access to the airport, making them ideal for travelers seeking easy access to transportation upon arrival.

Useful Tips:

If you’re traveling through Dominica, the Douglas-Charles Airport is likely to be one of your destinations. This airport is an important gateway to the island.

To make the most of your time at the airport, here are some insider tips that can help you navigate and enjoy your experience. First, be prepared for the wet weather. Dominica is a rainforest island and it’s common for flights to be delayed or diverted due to heavy rain, especially during hurricane season.

Second, bring cash. While there are ATMs at the airport, they may not always be working. It’s a good idea to have some cash on hand in case of emergencies. Finally, take advantage of the airport’s amenities. There are several food and beverage options, as well as duty-free shopping.

With these tips in mind, you can make your visit to the Douglas-Charles Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Contact Information

– Airport Information Desk: +1 767-445-8361
– Immigration Department: +1 767-616-3340
– Customs Department: +1 767-445-6365
– Dominica Air and Sea Ports Authority: +1 767-445-5350
– Lost and Found: +1 767-245-3797

For more contact information, please visit the airport’s official website.

Airports Near Douglas-Charles Airport

If you’re traveling to Dominica, you may want to consider alternate airports in the vicinity of Douglas-Charles Airport. Here are some options:

  • Canefield Airport: This airport is located approximately 19km (12 miles) south of Douglas-Charles Airport. It primarily serves smaller planes and local flights. Transport options include taxis or rental cars.
  • Melville Hall Airport: Located about 8km (5 miles) west of Douglas-Charles Airport, this airport also serves international flights. Transportation options include taxis or rental cars.
  • Marigot Ferry Terminal: If you’re coming from neighboring islands, you can take a ferry to Marigot Ferry Terminal, which is located approximately 12km (7 miles) south of Douglas-Charles Airport. From there, you can take a taxi or rent a car.

Keep in mind that transportation options may vary depending on the time of day, so be sure to plan ahead for your trip.

Useful Links

Wikipedia