Plizio Visual Lab
Cheddi Jagan Airport Terminal
Plizio editorial teamData Sources
Landmark
Weather…
Water temperature…
Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is Guyana's primary international gateway, possessing a rich history that spans both military and civil aviation. Originally constructed in 1941 during World War II as Atkinson Field, the base served as a strategic stopover for U.S. military flights heading to North Africa and Europe. After the war, the airfield transitioned to civilian use and was renamed in 1997 in honor of the late President Cheddi Jagan. Located approximately 41 kilometers south of the capital city, Georgetown, near the settlement of Timehri, the airport has recently undergone a major multi-million dollar expansion. The modernization project included a significant terminal overhaul, the installation of passenger boarding bridges, and the extension of the main runway to accommodate larger aircraft. These upgrades were necessitated by the rapid increase in passenger traffic following Guyana's emergence as a major oil producer. The airport is critical to the nation's economic infrastructure, handling almost all long-haul international flights and connecting Guyana to major hubs in North America, the Caribbean, and Brazil.
- Location: Guyana
- Top sights: Marijuana Farm (2019-07-04) · Location of pond airport · NDMA site, GDF Timerhi
- Nearby: Wales (13 km)
Best time to visit & climate
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Sep, Oct.
| Jan | Feb | Mar | Apr | May | Jun | Jul | Aug | Sep | Oct | Nov | Dec | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Avg °C | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 25 | 25 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 | 26 |
| Rain mm | 166 | 116 | 97 | 141 | 295 | 267 | 262 | 175 | 89 | 88 | 146 | 216 |
📋 Practical info
Visiting
The terminal building is accessible as a public area for travelers and visitors, but only up to the security checkpoints. The departures hall and observation deck are freely walkable.
Typical hours
The airport is open 24 hours, and the public areas are accessible at any time. The observation deck typically shares the same hours as the terminal, i.e., 24/7.
Photography
Photography in the departures hall and on the observation deck is allowed, but not in security areas. Be careful not to photograph staff or other passengers without their consent.
Time needed
A visit to the public areas takes about 30-45 minutes including the observation deck. For passengers, time for check-in and security screening is additional.
Combine with
The nearby Georgetown Waterfront and Botanical Garden are great to combine. St. George's Cathedral is also a short drive away.
Getting there
Cheddi Jagan Airport is located about 40 kilometers south of Georgetown. Taxis and shuttle buses run regularly; travel time is 45-60 minutes depending on traffic.
Insider tip
Use the observation deck to watch planes up close - a highlight for aviation enthusiasts. Arrive in the late afternoon when the light is softer.
Geography
Facts
- The airport was established in 1941 as the U.S. military base Atkinson Field.
- It was renamed in 1997 to honor former President Cheddi Jagan.
- The facility is located 41 kilometers (25 miles) south of Georgetown.
- The main runway was recently extended to a length of 3,350 meters.
- The terminal modernization project added modern boarding bridges in 2019.
- It serves as the primary gateway for all long-haul international air travel.
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
Only stops with (optional):
© OpenStreetMap contributors · OpenRouteService
Sights in the town Cheddi Jagan Airport Terminal (4)
Sights nearby
Frequently asked questions
How far is Cheddi Jagan Airport from Georgetown?
It is located about 41 km south of the city. The drive takes approximately 45 to 90 minutes depending on traffic.
Is there Wi-Fi for passengers in the terminal?
Yes, there is free Wi-Fi available for passengers in the waiting areas of the terminal.
Are there ATMs in the airport terminal?
Yes, there are ATMs and currency exchange booths in both the arrival and departure areas.
What transportation options are available to the city?
Official taxis and minibuses are available. Many hotels also offer their own shuttle services.
Are there duty-free shops at the airport?
Yes, there are several duty-free shops in the departure area offering local souvenirs, alcohol, and perfume.
Cheddi Jagan Airport Terminal: where is it located?
Cheddi Jagan Airport Terminal is located in Guyana.
Cheddi Jagan Airport Terminal: what is there to see?
Highlights include Marijuana Farm (2019-07-04), Location of pond airport, NDMA site, GDF Timerhi.
Cheddi Jagan Airport Terminal: when is the best time to visit?
The most pleasant time to visit is Mar, Sep, Oct.
Cheddi Jagan Airport Terminal: why is it worth visiting?
Cheddi Jagan International Airport (CJIA) is Guyana's primary international gateway, possessing a rich history that spans both military and civil aviation.
Explore with Plizio
Discover more places in South America
More places in Guyana →
Nearby cities
Georgetown
Georgetown is an important administrative center and one of the most significant cities in Guyana's DE region.
Ruimveldt
Ruimveldt is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Better Hope
Better Hope is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Mahaica Village
Mahaica Village is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Beterverwagting
Beterverwagting is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Triumph
Triumph is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Lusignan
Lusignan is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Buxton
Buxton is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Paradise
Paradise is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
Annandale
Annandale is a fascinating city in Guyana known for its local culture and vibrant community.
History & landmarks
🗺️
Georgetown City Hall
A neo-Gothic architectural gem often described as one of the most beautiful wooden buildings in the Caribbean.
🗺️
Providence Stadium
The largest sports arena in Guyana, used for international cricket matches and major events.
Demerara Harbour Bridge
A floating toll bridge across the Demerara River, serving as a vital transport link in Guyana.
Stabroek Market
A bustling historic market in Georgetown known for its iconic cast-iron clock tower.
Parliament Building
A striking Renaissance-style building in Georgetown serving as the seat of the National Assembly of Guyana.
Victoria Law Courts
A historic courthouse with imposing wooden architecture representing Guyana's judicial system.
🗺️
Guyana National Museum
A major museum exhibiting the flora, fauna, and historical artifacts of the country.
Georgetown Cenotaph
A war memorial in Georgetown commemorating the fallen of both World Wars.
More places
Pandama Retreat
A peaceful nature resort where families can relax, swim, and explore nature, away from the city noise.
🗺️
Splashmins Water Park
A popular amusement park on the Madewini river lake, ideal for family outings with water slides, beaches, and picnic areas.
Demerara Distillers
A world-famous rum distillery known for producing El Dorado rum.
Eccles Industrial Estate
A major manufacturing and logistics hub south of Georgetown.
🗺️
Banks DIH Brewery
One of the largest breweries and food producers in Guyana.
Stabroek Market
A prominent iron and steel building with a distinctive clock tower, the hub of commerce since 1881.
St. Andrew's Kirk
The oldest continuously used church in Georgetown, opened in 1818 and boasting a rich history.
Victoria Law Courts
A massive timber building housing the Supreme Court, named in honor of Queen Victoria.