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Old Pearls Airport
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Landmark
The Old Pearls Airport near Grenville stands as a compelling relic of Grenada's 20th-century history. Opened in 1943, it served as the nation's primary aviation gateway for over forty years until its replacement by Point Salines International Airport in 1984. The site gained international notoriety following the 1983 U.S.-led invasion, which left several Soviet-made Antonov AN-2 biplanes and Cuban aircraft stranded on its runways. Today, these rusted fuselages remain in situ, creating an eerie and evocative landscape where Cold War history meets the Caribbean countryside. The abandoned runways are now repurposed for local drag racing and as grazing land for goats and cattle, adding a surreal layer to the site's atmosphere. For travelers interested in political history or photography, Pearls Airport gives a tangible and unfiltered look at the island's strategic past and the dramatic shifts in global influence that once played out on its soil during a turbulent decade.
- Location: Grenada
- Top sights: Upper Pearls · Upper Conference · Paradise, Grenada
- Nearby: Sauteurs (5 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb–Apr.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 27 | 26 | 27 | 27 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 28 | 29 | 28 | 28 | 27 |
| Rain mm | 65 | 30 | 34 | 37 | 78 | 135 | 159 | 161 | 141 | 180 | 175 | 108 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The old airport is now an open-air museum displaying the rusting hulks of aircraft from the 1983 invasion. It is freely accessible during daylight hours, though the site is not formally maintained or staffed.
Typical hours
There are no official opening hours; the site is accessible at any time. However, visiting during daylight is recommended for safety and to better see the rusted aircraft in natural light.
Photography
Photography is allowed and is a major draw for history enthusiasts. The decaying aircraft make for striking, somber images; be respectful of the site's historical significance and avoid climbing on the wreckage.
Time needed
A visit typically lasts 30 minutes to an hour, depending on your interest in military history. Allow extra time to walk around the planes and read any informational signs that may be present.
Combine with
The site is located near the village of Pearls, about 20 minutes' drive from St. George's. Combine with a trip to the nearby Grenville market or Levera Beach for a full day of exploration in the northeast.
Getting there
The old airport is accessible by car or taxi; there is limited parking on site. The road is paved but the area is rural, so a rental car is convenient for flexibility.
Insider tip
Wear long pants and sturdy shoes, as the area may have tall grass and uneven ground. Bring water and sunscreen, as there is no shade near the aircraft and the sun can be intense.
Geography
Facts
- The airport was built in 1943 by the US Army.
- Runway length was 1,600 meters (5,250 ft).
- It closed in 1984 after the new airport opened.
- Construction cost was $1.5 million.
- At its peak, it handled 50 flights per week.
- The terminal had two gates and a control tower.
Explore nearby
Notable places around
Route planner — Car & Motorhome
Where do you start? We build the route here, with stops and country notes along the way.
Vehicle
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© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Old Pearls Airport (3)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
Can you visit the old Pearls Airport?
Yes, the site is open to the public and is now often used for grazing cattle or car racing.
Are there still plane wrecks there?
Yes, there are two abandoned Soviet and Cuban planes from the revolutionary era to be seen.
Where is the airport located?
It is located on the northeastern coast of Grenada, near the town of Grenville.
When was the airport decommissioned?
It was replaced in 1984 by the new Maurice Bishop International Airport.
Is the site safe for tourists?
Generally yes, but be cautious as the grounds are not officially monitored.
Old Pearls Airport: where is it located?
Old Pearls Airport is located in Grenada.
Old Pearls Airport: what is there to see?
Highlights include Upper Pearls, Upper Conference, Paradise, Grenada.
Old Pearls Airport: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Feb, Apr.
Old Pearls Airport: why is it worth visiting?
The Old Pearls Airport near Grenville stands as a compelling relic of Grenada's 20th-century history.
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