Oranjestad, Aruba — Aruba is once again demonstrating its strong sense of solidarity and hospitality as travelers are affected by major air travel disruptions linked to severe winter weather in the United States.
A powerful winter storm impacting New York and the U.S. Northeast has brought heavy snow, ice, and hazardous conditions, forcing authorities to issue weather warnings and prompting airlines to cancel and delay hundreds of flights. Major airports, including John F. Kennedy (JFK), LaGuardia, and Newark, have experienced widespread operational disruptions during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
As a direct result, multiple inbound flights to Aruba were canceled or delayed, leaving a significant number of visitors temporarily stranded at Queen Beatrix International Airport. Some additional disruptions were compounded by technical issues affecting certain aircraft.
With Aruba currently in the high tourist season and limited hotel availability, it is estimated that up to 300 visitors may urgently require temporary accommodation.
The Aruba Tourism Authority (ATA) has therefore issued an urgent call to the local community for assistance. Owners of short-term vacation rentals, including apartments, condominiums, and private homes, are asked to come forward if they can provide accommodation for stranded passengers.
ATA Contact Persons
- Ilka Laclé — WhatsApp: +297 733 4717 | Email: i.lacle@aruba.com
- Patrick Melchiors — WhatsApp: +297 593 6662 | Email: p.melchiors@aruba.com
When contacting ATA via WhatsApp or email, please include:
- Full name
- Address of the accommodation
- Guest capacity
The national crisis management team indicated that once sufficient accommodation has been secured, additional responses via app or email may no longer be required.
This coordinated response highlights the strength of Aruba’s community spirit and reinforces the island’s reputation as a welcoming destination—ensuring that visitors are supported even when unforeseen international disruptions occur.
