Antigua – Aug 21
CMC – Antigua and Barbuda opened its near US$100 million terminal at the VC Bird International Airport on Thursday night with Prime Minister Gaston Browne indicating that several other new projects were in the pipeline.
The facility, which began under the United Progressive Party (UPP) at a cost of US$45 million was completed three years later at a cost of approximately US$98 million.
“This facility, at a cost of approximately US $98 million, is one we can all be proud of, and I am confident will help ensure the bright and successful future of Antigua & Barbuda,” said Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Tourism Paula Frederick Hunte.
Officials said that the new terminal could process up to two million passengers per year with Aviation Minister, Robin Yearwood, indicating that the new facility will play a pivotal role in the island’s economic development.
“This modern structure gives us the potential to make Antigua & Barbuda a trade hub and boost visitor arrivals from the region, as well as from premier international tourist markets,” he said.
Prime Minister Browne described the new terminal as a monument that has connected several generations.
“Just as previous generations left us their legacy facilities that were relevant and innovative in their time, our generation has moved our country further with the current modern terminal,” he said.
“When the inhabitants of our twin island nation-state look at this airport terminal, they can do so with a strong sense of accomplishment and of patriotism.”
Browne told the ceremony that there were several other projects on the horizon.
“And we have so many projects to start next year. We have and no matter what they say has money. No developer could spend EC$80 million (One Ec dollar =US$0.37 cents) to buy land and don’t have no money, don’t let them fool you.”
He said a major developer is expected to begin construction “of at least six properties…within a matter of weeks”.
He said construction of a 500 room hotel will also begin very shortly
The chief executive officer of the Antigua Barbuda Airport Authority, (ABAU), Stanley Smith, said he was happy that the project had come to fruition after three years.
“The Antigua Barbuda Airport Authority has waited three years for this historic moment. Finally, we can exhale. Today ABBA welcomes the people of Antigua & Barbuda to the new VC Bird International Airport.”
The airport terminal, built by the China Civil Engineering Construction Corporation, has 14 departure gates, modern security screening facilities, as well as a VIP lounge. A mini food court and various concession outlets should be opened in due course, ready for the opening.
It also boasts 46 CUTE (Common Use Terminal Systems) check-in areas; 15 self-check-in kiosks; advanced technology baggage handling systems; state-of-the-art screening equipment; four passenger loading bridges; 13 retail and four food and beverage outlets. There are also short and long-term parking facilities.
