This is a post by author Claudio Stamper. At the time of its writing, Claudio served as general manager for Universal Aviation Aruba – Oranjestad, which discontinued operation of the GAT in January 2018.

This business aviation blog post is part of a series on operating in Aruba and continues from our last article: “Business Aircraft Operations to Aruba: Ground Handling and Security.”

For business aircraft operations to Aruba (TNCA), consider additional lead times when making arrangements for in-flight catering and ground transport. Also, there are additional lead times and restrictions associated with bringing pets and/or weapons into the country.

The following is an overview of what you need to know:

1. In-flight caterers are located on the field

One in-flight caterer is located on the field and caters to both scheduled commercial and general aviation. Catering is also available from area restaurants and hotels. Your ground handler will assist in coordination of catering orders and delivery to the aircraft when catering is sourced from off-airport. On-board catering may, in some cases, be stored at the airport, but it’s best to check in advance to ensure this is possible. Certain food items will not be permitted into Aruba, so always check in advance.

2. Rental cars and private transport

There’s one private rental car company located on the Fixed-Base Operator (FBO) side, but operators can use any rental car facilities they choose. Some rental car companies deliver vehicles to the FBO, but this depends on the rental car provider.

Private transport is also an option. Note that airside access by private transportation providers is not usually permitted at TNCA except in the case of air ambulance flights.

3. Pet restrictions

No animals from South America may enter Aruba – even on transit – unless you have proof that the animal was born in a non-South American country and has all required vaccinations. At least three business days is recommended to make these arrangements. If you arrive with a pet without prior arrangements, it will be quarantined or denied entry.

4. Weapons restrictions

If weapons are brought into the country – with the exception of a Head of State onboard – they’ll need to be declared on arrival and a permit from the Department of Foreign Affairs must be presented. If an appropriate permit is not obtained, the weapons will need to be secured at the airport for duration of the stay.

5. Additional reading: Business Aircraft Ops to Aruba – Series Index

Note: Links will be updated as articles are published.

• Part 1 – Airport operations
• Part 2 – Ground handling and security
• Part 3 – Catering, Cars, Pets & Guns
• Part 4 – Permits, PPRs, flight planning and weather
• Part 5 – CIQ information
• Part 6 – Fuel and hotels

Later, we’ll discuss permits, prior permission required, flight planning, and weather for Aruba and their impact on your trip.

Conclusion

Always reconfirm local requirements and regulations, in advance of day of operation, if you plan to offload pets, weapons and/or onboard catering at TNCA. Given sufficient lead time, your ground handler will be able to coordinate clearance of such items.

Questions?

If you have any questions about this article or would like assistance planning your next trip to Aruba, contact us at operationalinsight@univ-wea.com.