Ascension Island Airport

The Island Airport of Ascension - A Hidden Gem in the Middle of the Atlantic Ocean

Located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, approximately 700 miles from the coast of West Africa, lies the small but impressive Ascension Island Airport. With just two passenger gates, one cargo gate, and daily flights operated by the Royal Air Force, one might wonder what makes this airport so special. But for those who have experienced its unique charm, the answer is clear - it's a hidden gem in the middle of nowhere.

The airport is situated on the remote island of Ascension, a British overseas territory that is only 34 square miles in size OpenedHost.Com. Despite its small size, the island is strategically important due to its location, serving as a vital refueling stop for military and commercial flights crossing the Atlantic Ocean.

Passenger Experience:

Whether you are a military personnel or a civilian traveling to or from the island, the Ascension Island Airport offers a unique and memorable experience. The airport has two passenger gates, one for arrivals and the other for departures. The size of the terminal may be small, but it compensates with its warm and welcoming atmosphere.

One of the most remarkable features of this airport is its VIP lounge. While most international airports have VIP lounges exclusively for first and business class travelers, the Ascension Island Airport's VIP lounge is open to all passengers, making everyone feel like a VIP. With comfortable seating, complimentary snacks, and refreshments, it's the perfect place to relax before or after a long flight.

For those who prefer more privacy, the airport also offers private rooms for rent, which can be a lifesaver for tired travelers or for those on a long layover. The lounge also has a designated smoking area, making it convenient for smokers to enjoy a smoke break without having to leave the airport Al Ain International Airport.

Facilities:

Despite its small size, the Ascension Island Airport offers a variety of facilities to cater to the needs of its passengers. The airport has a parking area for those who choose to rent a car or drive their own, making it convenient for travelers to explore the island at their own pace. For those who prefer public transportation, there are also taxi services available outside the airport, making it easy to reach the city center.

In terms of dining options, the airport has two restaurants and cafes that offer a variety of dishes and beverages to cater to different tastes. One restaurant is located in the public area, while the other is in the VIP lounge. Both restaurants offer a cozy ambiance and friendly service, making it a pleasant experience for passengers.

For those looking for some retail therapy, the airport also has a duty-free shop that offers a range of products from local souvenirs to luxury items. It's the perfect place to pick up some unique gifts for family and friends or to treat yourself to a little something before your flight.

Working at the Airport:

One may wonder who works at the Ascension Island Airport, given its remote location. Surprisingly, the airport employs a team of around 50 dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to ensure smooth operations and a pleasant experience for all passengers.

From maintenance and security to customer service and administration, the airport employees are the backbone of this small but functional airport. Their dedication and hard work allow the airport to handle the daily flights, as well as the occasional charter flights that come through.

Serving as an Employer:

In addition to providing a unique travel experience, the Ascension Island Airport also serves as an employer for the local community. With limited economic opportunities on the island, the airport is a significant source of employment for the residents. The airport offers job opportunities in various fields and provides training to locals, allowing them to gain valuable skills and experience.

Furthermore, the airport also supports the local economy by sourcing goods and services from local businesses, thus contributing to the island's growth and development.

But perhaps the most significant contribution of the airport to the community is its involvement in community projects and initiatives. From sponsoring local events to organizing volunteer clean-up days for the island's beaches, the airport is committed to giving back to the community and preserving the unique beauty of the island.

Annual Capacity and Future Plans:

Despite its remote location, the Ascension Island Airport sees around 15,000 passengers annually, with an average of two daily flights operated by the Royal Air Force. However, the airport has the infrastructure and potential to handle more traffic.

In the past, there have been talks about expanding the airport to accommodate commercial flights and increasing its capacity to handle larger aircraft. While there are no concrete plans in place yet, it's clear that the airport has the potential to grow as a commercial hub in the future, providing even more opportunities for both travelers and locals.

Contact Information:

For those looking to contact the Ascension Island Airport, the official contact number is +247 662 5066. The airport also has an active social media presence, with regular updates and information for travelers. The official website also provides various contact details for different departments, making it easy for passengers to reach out for any queries or concerns.

Exploring the Island:

While the airport may be the main point of entry to Ascension Island, the island itself has much to offer. With a unique volcanic landscape, diverse flora and fauna, and beautiful beaches, it's a nature lover's paradise. The island is also home to a variety of wildlife, including sea turtles, seabirds, and greenback green turtles.

For tourists and travelers, there are numerous activities and attractions to explore, such as fishing, diving, and hiking. The island's isolation also makes it a prime destination for stargazing, with stunning views of the night sky.

Furthermore, with a distance of just 5 kilometers from the airport to the city center, exploring the island is convenient and hassle-free. But despite its small size, there is no shortage of things to do and see on this remote island.

Final Thoughts:

In conclusion, the Ascension Island Airport may not be the biggest or busiest airport in the world, but it has its own unique charm and appeal. From its warm and welcoming atmosphere to its role as an employer and contributor to the local community, the airport is more than just a transit point - it's a symbol of resilience and strength in the middle of the vast Atlantic Ocean. So, if you ever have the chance to visit this hidden gem, be sure to take it - it's an experience you won't forget.