Whether it’s the beginning of your Caribbean vacation when you are landing or the moment when you are finally leaving the island after having enjoyed the turquoise waters, exploring Curaçao International Airport (also called Hato International Airport) will be the first and last step of your travel. As one of the main gateways to the Southern Caribbean, this airport perfectly combines modern efficiency with the warmth of an island welcome.
Here’s a comprehensive guide about Curacao International Airport that covers all you need to know about arrivals, departures, and services. We’ve picked up the great tips to help you skip the customs queues by using the Digital Immigration Card, or enjoy the VIP lounge while waiting for your flight, and the transit through the airport will be as smooth as a tropical breeze.
Curaçao International Airport is the main point of entry to the island and nicely combines a contemporary infrastructure with a friendly, hospitable Caribbean atmosphere. Here is a brief overview of the airport:
| Name of the airport | Curacao International Airport/ Hato International Airport (Official Name) |
| ICAO Code | TNCC |
| IATA Code | CUR |
| Number of Terminals | 1 |
| Airlines from CUR | American AirlinesJetBlue Air Canada Rouge West JetUnited AirlinesDelta Surinam Airways Avianca Wingo LATAM AirlinesAvior |
| Annual Record of Passengers | 2.1 million (2024) |
| Ground Transportation Services | Car Rental, Shuttle Services |
| Owned and Operated By | Curaçao Airport Partners (CAP) |
| Contact Number | +5999 839 1000 |
| Address | Curaçao International AirportFranklin D. RooseveltwegWillemstad, Curaçao (Dutch Caribbean) |
The Curaçao International Airport terminal is a sleek, modern facility that serves as your comfortable gateway to the Caribbean. After a major redevelopment, the terminal is now built to welcome up to 2.5 million passengers annually with ease.
Here is what you can expect from the terminal:
When at the CUR Airport, here are the services that you will be provided with, as mentioned below:
CUR Airport provides its passengers with the flexibility of check-in. There are umpteen ways to check in – online, at the self-service kiosks, or at the airline’s check-in counters, particularly if you need in-person assistance. It is advisable to know your airline’s counter opening time in advance so you can plan how early you need to arrive at the airport for a hassle-free check-in. You can always check in at one of the eight self-service kiosks if you only have hand luggage. This way, you will be routed directly to the security check counter.
Are you flying out of the Curaçao International Airport? After checking in and dropping off your bags, proceed to Immigration, located behind the Departures Hall, with your passport, boarding pass, and any other documents you may need. If you have minors along with you, make sure yoy carry all the permission papers. Get in touch with Immigration by calling +5999 733-2000 or emailing immigratie@polis.cw if you need help.
Welcome to CUR’s Kids Zone, where little imaginations get to fly before they do! Tucked away in both the East and West Wings, this is the ideal spot for turning your kid’s wait time into playtime. Let them explore, learn, and giggle with games and learning activities designed just for them.
Sanwil Aviation N.V. provides complete help and VIP services to passengers, such as transit help, wheelchair assistance, unaccompanied minor handling, group coordination, medical travel support, VIP lounge access, hotel and car rental arrangements, and baggage tracing. Send your requests to cderooy@airportdesk.com if you need assistance.
The VIP Lounge is a great place to relax with comfortable seats, fast Wi-Fi, a self-service bar, snacks, showers, and family-friendly facilities. The lounge is open every day from 08:30 to 20:30 and offers a nice break in a calm environment; however, due to limited space, access may be restricted at times to ensure everyone has a pleasant, comfortable stay.
The day pass costs $55 for a maximum three-hour stay per person. Children under 3 get complimentary access if they have an adult for company. Payment methods include Mastercard, Visa, and all primary Lounge Program Cards, such as Lounge Key, Priority Pass, and more.
Just a short walk from Gate 5, the Nursing Pod is the ideal place for nursing mothers to spend some quiet time with their babies before boarding. The tranquil, clean, and stress-free environment of the Nursing Pod will put mothers at ease, whether they are feeding, changing, or just resting. Through this, you will be comforted and confident that your journey at Curaçao International Airport starts in the best way possible.
You will find it very convenient to get cash at the CUR Airport by using any of the three ATMs located there. One is in the Arrivals Hall, the second is on the airport boulevard, close to the Check-In Hall, and the third is in the Departure Hall, near gates 4 and 5. You can easily withdraw in USD, Euros, or XCG from any of these machines with no hassle.
This program is for individuals with hidden disabilities like autism, dementia, chronic pain, and anxiety. Individuals who need a little more assistance at the CUR Airport may wear the sunflower lanyard. This will help the staff recognize them and provide them with the extra care and compassion they need.
If you lost your belongings on the plane, contact your airline directly. However, in case your items were misplaced at the airport, you have to fill out a form on their official website. Ensure to provide adequate information to help the airline authorities assist you better. Your submission will be reviewed properly by the dedicated team. If your item has been found, the team will guide you on how to unite with your belongings.
No matter if you want a quick snack before the flight or a nice drink after landing, the Airport has great food and drink options. A good number of places are found in the “Commercial Plaza” or “Airport Boulevard,” so even if you’re not flying, you can easily access them.
| Establishment | Specialty | Location | Opening Hours |
| Wendy’s | Fast food (Burgers, Fries, Frosty) | Outside, Commercial Plaza | Daily: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Auntie Anne’s | Freshly baked pretzels & lemonade | Outside, Commercial Plaza | Daily: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Cinnabon | Cinnamon rolls & cupcakes | Outside, Commercial Plaza | Daily: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Mini Pancakes | Dutch Poffertjes, pancakes & waffles | Outside, Commercial Plaza | Daily: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Juan Valdez Cafe | Premium Colombian coffee & pastries | Outside, Commercial Plaza | Daily: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Duck Donuts | Warm, made-to-order custom donuts | Outside, Commercial Plaza | Daily: 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM |
| Panda Express | American-Chinese cuisine | Outside, Commercial Boulevard | Daily: 11:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Victoria Galati | Gelato, pasta, pinsa & salads | Outside, in the Arrivals Hall | Daily: 8:00 AM – 8:00 PM |
| Bar 22 Express | Refreshing cocktails & beverages | Arrivals Hall | Daily: 1:00 PM – 8:00 PM |
| Marshe Gastro Hall | Specialty coffee, snacks & gourmet food | Departure Hall West | 5:30 AM – Last departing flight |
| Popcorn Rush | Assorted flavored popcorn | Departure Hall West | Daily: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM |
If you’re looking for shopping options at the CUR Airport, the good news is that you will find plenty of them there. The Britt Shop is located before security,, while the Penha Duty Free, Dutch Market, and Rumbo Caribe are located after security. You will find another Britt Shop outlet after security as well.
The Airport has ~300 airy open spaces for a quick drop or week-long trip, right near the terminal for hassle-free access. Automated setup caps out at ANG 21.50/day—your ticket even comes with a photo of your plate.
Travelling around the island of Curaçao should be a relaxed experience, and the easiest way to kick off your journey is by simply getting a rental car from Curaçao International Airport. If you want a leading international brand or a small local company, you will find many good, reliable choices available right at the terminal or reachable by quick shuttles.
| Company | Website/Link | Notes/Reviews |
| Alamo | Alamo Curaçao | Top ratings (10.0); reliable airport service. |
| Avis | Avis Curaçao | Standard airport option; solid availability. |
| Budget | Budget Curaçao | Popular at CUR; competitive rates. |
| Dollar | Dollar Curaçao | Airport pickup: budget-friendly. |
| Enterprise | Enterprise CUR | Great experiences; upfront fees. |
| Hertz | Hertz | Global chain; reservation ease. |
| National | National Curaçao | Perfect scores (10.0); Emerald perks. |
| Sixt | Sixt Hato | Premium options at the airport. |
| Thrifty | Thrifty | Value deals; airport convenient. |
| Just Drive | Just Drive | Rave reviews; cheap, shuttle, insurance included. |
| Ross Rental | Ross | Local fave; reliable rides. |
| ACE | ACE | Affordable local choice. |
| Europcar | Europcar Curaçao | Vast fleet at CUR. |
| Platinum | Platinum WhatsApp: +59995142244 | Contact directly; flexible. |
Getting to the island is a breeze, thanks to the wide variety of carriers that call Curaçao International Airport (CUR) home. With over 25 airlines operating scheduled flights, the island is perfectly connected to North America, South America, Europe, and our Caribbean neighbours.
Security wait times at the CUR Airport vary depending on the time of day you check in. During peak hours or holiday seasons, it may take as long as 30 minutes. However, in general, security wait times are 5-15 minutes or less. When you plan ahead, pack smart, and follow all TSA rules and regulations, it will take less time to pass security checks.
Conclusion
Curaçao International Airport provides a smooth travel experience with its well-planned arrivals and departures, as well as a wide range of services to ensure the comfort and convenience of the travellers. The various services they provide, including special assistance, food and shopping options, and more, ensure that travellers have a hassle-free experience. By increasing the number of airlines, Curaçao International Airport is effectively bridging the gap between the island and the rest of the world, thereby turning every trip into an easy and unforgettable experience.
FAQs
The airport is technically open 24/7, which is great for peace of mind. However, keep in mind that individual check-in counters and shops set their own hours. It’s always a smart move to double-check with your airline so you have plenty of time for security and a pre-flight coffee.
You’re only about 12 kilometers (7.5 miles) away from the colorful heart of Willemstad. The drive usually takes a quick 15–20 minutes, meaning you can go from the arrivals hall to a waterfront café in no time at all.
Yes. The airport is designed to be accessible for everyone, featuring ramps, elevators, and dedicated restrooms. If you need wheelchair assistance or a little extra help navigating the terminal, just let your airline know in advance—they’ll be happy to assist.
Yes! You can enjoy free Wi-Fi throughout the terminal. It’s perfect for downloading your Digital Immigration Card, checking your flight status, or sending your family that first “I’ve arrived!” photo.
Yes, there are. If you have a long layover or want to explore the island unburdened before a late flight, you can use the temporary baggage storage services (provided by partners like Sanwil) to keep your bags secure while you head out.
You certainly can. Whether you’re craving a local treat, a quick burger at the Commercial Plaza, or planning to purchase a last-minute souvenir, the airport’s variety of shops and eateries ensures you won’t leave empty-handed or hungry.