Airports & Airlines in Jamaica – Visitor Guide

 JAMAICA AIRPORTS: WHICH ONE SHOULD YOU USE?

Jamaica has three international airports and several domestic aerodromes. Your best choice for a seamless travel experience depends on where you’ll be staying. This guide will help you determine the most convenient airport for your Jamaica trip.

International Airports

Sangster International Airport (MBJ) — Montego Bay

Jamaica’s busiest gateway and the primary entry point for tourists. This airport is the best choice for travelers heading to the north and west coasts.

• Best for: Montego Bay, Negril, Falmouth, Ocho Rios

• Typical Drives:

  • MoBay: 10–20 min

  • Falmouth: ~40 min

  • Negril: 75–90 min

  • Ocho Rios: 90–110 min

Norman Manley International Airport (KIN) — Kingston

Located on Kingston Harbour, this airport is a popular hub for business and local travel. It’s the most convenient option for exploring the capital and the island’s southern region.

• Best for: Kingston, Port Royal, the Blue Mountains, and Mandeville

• Typical Drives:

  • Kingston: 20–35 min

  • Blue Mountains: 60–90 min

  • Mandeville: ~2 hr

Ian Fleming International Airport (OCJ) — Ocho Rios

A smaller, more exclusive gateway, this airport is an excellent choice if you’re staying in the Ocho Rios area, as it offers limited but direct international service.

• Best for: Ocho Rios, Oracabessa, Runaway Bay

• Typical Drives:

  • Ocho Rios: 15–25 min

  • Oracabessa: 10–15 min

  • Runaway Bay: 30–40 min

Domestic Aerodromes

These smaller airports are great for avoiding long ground transfers.

• Tinson Pen Aerodrome (KTP) — Kingston: Jamaica’s largest domestic facility; useful for business hops and connections from KIN.

• Negril Aerodrome (NEG) — Negril: A quick shortcut to Seven Mile Beach, this small airport allows you to avoid the long road transfer from MBJ (availability varies)

Quick Tips for Your Airport Choice

• Staying in Negril or Montego Bay? → MBJ is your best bet.

• Staying in Ocho Rios, Runaway Bay, or Oracabessa? → Consider OCJ if available, otherwise MBJ.

• Staying in Kingston, the Blue Mountains, or Mandeville? → KIN is your most convenient option.

• Want to skip long road transfers? → Consider a domestic hop (e.g., KTP to NEG), a private charter, or a helicopter transfer.

Additional Travel Advice

• Peak Season (Dec–Apr): Book your flights and airport transfers well in advance.

• Night Arrivals: Always arrange a private transfer ahead of time, as some of Jamaica’s roads are narrow and winding.

• Renting a Car: Confirm pickup and return policies at your arrival and departure airports, as one-way drop fees may apply.