The Fernando Luis Ribas Dominicci Airport in Isla Grande, San Juan, is set for a series of investments aimed at turning it into a gateway for private aviation in the Caribbean, according to Puerto Rico Ports Authority (PRPA) Executive Director Norberto Negrón Díaz. Founded almost 100 years ago and now home to an FAA control tower, a Customs and Border Protection facility, flights to Vieques and Culebra, flight schools, and fixed-base operator Modern Aviation, which receives about 1,000 private flights a year, the airport’s first upgrade is a $25.6 million federally funded runway project.
It will raise the runway’s classification from B2 to C3 and allow larger aircraft, without changing its length or width. Work began with administrative and surveying phases in September, with completion expected by mid-2027. From April 30, 2027, the runway will close for five months of demolition, forcing concessionaires to suspend operations or relocate; Aviation Director José Román said a consensus with concessionaires shortened the closure.
Other planned projects include covered parking with solar rooftops, relocated and improved Air Rescue facilities, and modernized terminal counters. A second FBO by Pompina Investments, with an initial $8 million commitment, broke ground after old fuel tanks were removed and should be completed in summer 2027; Carlos López-Lay, CEO of Bella Group, is its listed administrator.
A third FBO by Aerotécnica is in design and permitting. PRPA also envisions a regional network including Vieques, Culebra and Mayagüez.