Jamaica’s Airport Network Set for Major Upgrade
Jamaica is gearing up for a significant transformation in its airport infrastructure, with over US$500 million earmarked for enhancements. This ambitious investment aims to expand capacity, improve safety, and meet the soaring demand for air travel in the island nation.
During a recent virtual forum hosted by MBJ Airports, Minister of Science, Energy, Telecommunications and Transport, Hon. Daryl Vaz, shared the government’s vision for the future. “Airports are major contributors and an engine of growth in the national economy,” he emphasized. “They play a central role in the travel and tourism industry.”
A Bold Investment Strategy
The government’s commitment is backed by a robust capital program: US$152 million (J$25 billion) for the fiscal year 2025/26, followed by an impressive US$372 million (J$61 billion) allocated for the period from 2026 to 2029. This funding will support ongoing expansion and improvements across both government-run and privately operated airports.
New Horizons: Little London Airport
One of the most exciting projects on the horizon is the development of a new international airport in Little London, Westmoreland. “This airport will be just 20 minutes from the famous Negril seven-mile strip, where most of the hotels are,” Vaz explained. The phased development is projected to cost US$460 million and will be pursued as a public-private partnership, promising to boost tourism and economic activity in the western parishes.
Revitalizing St. Elizabeth and Portland
In St. Elizabeth, the Lionel Densham Aerodrome is nearing approval. “It’s at a far advanced stage to go to the Public Investment Committee for approval,” Vaz noted. This facility is expected to enhance airlift to south-central St. Elizabeth, driving tourism and economic growth in the region.
Meanwhile, in Portland, consultants are exploring options to expand the Ken Jones Aerodrome or potentially identify a new site. “This is to provide greater airlift capability for eastern Jamaica,” Vaz added, highlighting the government’s commitment to responding to increased tourism development.
Relocation and Redevelopment Plans
The Tinson Pen Aerodrome in Kingston is also set for relocation. The Airports Authority of Jamaica is collaborating with the Port Authority and the National Works Agency to develop a plan for moving operations to Norman Manley International Airport.
In addition, NMIA is undergoing a massive facelift, with PAC Kingston Airport Limited (PACKAL) entering the infrastructure phase of a five-year, US$161 million redevelopment plan. “Consultants are conducting a study for possible alternative sites for Tinson Pen, and we hope to conclude these studies by September 2025,” Vaz stated.
Looking Ahead
While the scale of these investments is impressive, Vaz stressed the importance of forward planning. “Even with what we are doing now, by the time we finish, we would still be behind the eight ball in terms of projecting future airport traffic,” he cautioned.
As Jamaica prepares for this transformative journey, the question remains: how will these upgrades shape the future of travel and tourism on the island? With a vibrant culture and stunning landscapes, Jamaica is poised to welcome even more visitors, making these airport enhancements not just a necessity, but a gateway to new opportunities.