CAP launches outbound terminal mid-expansion project at CUR to optimize operational efficiency and support future growth

Willemstad, Curaçao, May 17, 2026 – Curaçao Airport Partners (CAP), the operator of Curaçao International Airport (CUR), in close collaboration with Curaçao Airport Holding (CAH), the airport owner, has officially commenced the Outbound Terminal Mid-Expansion Project at CUR. The project marks another important milestone in the airport’s continued development and long-term vision to strengthen operational capacity, modernize airport infrastructure, and further elevate the passenger experience. The project is expected to continue through December 2026.

Over recent years, CUR has experienced sustained and record-breaking passenger growth, surpassing earlier forecasts and reinforcing the need for continued investment in airport infrastructure and operational efficiency. Focused entirely on outbound operations for departing passengers, this mid-expansion project represents a strategic investment in both capacity and quality, with enhancements aimed at optimizing passenger flow, improving operational processes, and creating a smoother, faster, and more comfortable airport journey.

The project includes enhancements to several key outbound passenger processing areas, including boarding pass control, outbound immigration, security screening, and transit operations. As work progresses over the coming months, passengers will gradually experience several improvements, including expanded outbound terminal space, additional boarding pass barcode readers, including a wider accessibility unit designed to better accommodate wheelchair passengers and travelers requiring additional assistance, infrastructure preparations for the future expansion of e-Gates by the Ministry of Justice, increased immigration processing capacity through additional staffed booths, an additional passenger screening lane, a dedicated VIP fast-track lane, and a more efficient transit route for connecting passengers, while maintaining the existing transit processes currently in place.

As part of the first phase of the project, partial fencing will be installed from May 18 through May 22, 2026, along sections of the Commercial Boulevard to facilitate safe and efficient construction activities. The initial expansion works will take place in the area between the existing terminal fencing and the former restaurant locations situated between Panda Express and the ATM and Parking Pay machine area, including the spaces previously occupied by Cinnabon, Auntie Anne’s, Juan Valdez Café, and Mini Pancakes Amsterdam. This area will form part of the additional outbound terminal space being created through the expansion works.

During this initial phase, all construction activities will remain contained within this designated area, ensuring that passengers, visitors, and the airport community experience minimal inconvenience. The Check-in Hall will remain fully operational and accessible at all times, as will the Commercial Boulevard, including the ATM and Parking Pay machine located to the left of the Check-in Hall, which will also remain operational and accessible. At the end of the project, an additional Parking Pay machine will be installed to further support payment capacity and improve convenience for users of the parking facilities.

As the project progresses in phases over the coming months, work areas may gradually shift or be relocated as needed, with every effort being made to minimize disruption while maintaining safe, efficient, and accessible airport operations throughout the duration of the project. Dedicated signage will be placed throughout the terminal as needed to help guide passengers and visitors, while CUR’s Terminal Guides will remain available throughout the project to provide assistance and support.

In parallel with these terminal enhancements, CAP is also preparing for a refresh and expansion of the food & beverage experience within the upstairs Departures Hall. As part of the redevelopment works, the Commercial Boulevard locations of Juan Valdez Café, Cinnabon, and Auntie Anne’s will close operations at the end of the day on Sunday, May 17, 2026. Juan Valdez Café will continue serving passengers from its existing upstairs location in the Departures Hall, while Cinnabon and Auntie Anne’s are expected to reopen later this year in the upstairs Departures Hall with refreshed concepts and enhanced guest experiences. Later this year, Juan Valdez Café and Cinnabon are also expected to return to the Commercial Boulevard with renewed concepts, while maintaining their presence upstairs.

In addition, CAP looks forward to further expanding the food & beverage offering for departing passengers with the future introduction of additional concepts in the upstairs Departures Hall, including Quiznos, Papia Mia, and a wine bar. Meanwhile, Wendy’s, Panda Express, Victoria Gelato, and Bar 22 Express will remain fully operational throughout the project, allowing passengers and visitors to continue enjoying a variety of dining and refreshment options during the redevelopment works.

“This mid-expansion project reflects our continued commitment to investing in the future of CUR and continuously enhancing the passenger experience,” said Ricardo Hernández, CEO of CAP. “Together with Curaçao Airport Holding, we share a long-term vision of preparing CUR for future growth while ensuring that our airport remains efficient, welcoming, and aligned with the evolving needs of travelers and airline partners. These enhancements will allow us to better accommodate growing passenger volumes while creating a more modern, and seamless departure experience for everyone traveling through Curaçao.”

Wilhelmus Ignacio, Managing Director of CAH, added: “This project demonstrates the collaboration between CAH and CAP in continuing to invest in the sustainable development of CUR. As airport owner, we remain committed to supporting infrastructure improvements that strengthen Curaçao’s connectivity, enhance operational resilience, and contribute to the long-term growth of our tourism and economy. Together, we are building an airport experience that reflects the ambitions of Curaçao as a destination.”

CAP extends its sincere gratitude to all travelers, visitors, airport partners, and the wider community for their continued support, patience, and cooperation throughout this important next phase of development. This mid-expansion project represents more than infrastructure improvements alone; it is part of CUR’s continued preparation for the future and a shared commitment to building a stronger, more modern and seamless airport experience that reflects the growth and ambitions of Curaçao.