The problem regarding the discomfort of VI Airlink was chronicled in the media in November. It was reported that since the passage of the 2017 hurricanes the company has been without hangar space and each month has had to service their large plane in Anguilla, Puerto Rico and Florida. Following that disclosure it was reported early this month that the BVIAA arranged a meeting with VI Airlink to discuss that hangar situation.

Premier Fahie during the Standing Finance Committee (SFC) meeting that took place a few weeks ago made the request for a report on the situation. The Premier also openly wondered why the concerns of VI Airlink could not be addressed; and what was being done to solve the problem.

In response the BVI Airports Authority team advised that there was no hanger space available at Beef Island or anywhere in the Territory to accommodate VI Air Link’s aircraft. It was stated that the Airports Authority was feverishly working towards rectifying the problem.

As a solution BVIAA said that it intended to invest in hangers for lease for about 10-20 years, and would erect them in short order. It was further noted that contracts had already been signed and the project was well advanced with the company that was expanding the hangers and developing the ramp areas for more capacity.

The BVIAA said that they were forging ahead to look after the local carriers, but they also had to develop in a responsible way and the studies regarding the soil samples had to take place.

The Airport Authority stated that they would look at the funds available and revenue streams and they would be in a better position to determine exactly how the hanger would be financed whether the company would do it themselves or extend the lease.

Meanwhile, Leader of the Opposition Hon. Marlon Penn voiced his concern regarding the situation with VI Air Link and noted that they were concerned with the length of the lease. Further Hon. Penn said that VI Airlink was willing to build the hanger themselves based on the specifications laid out by the BVI Airports Authority if they were given a favourable lease agreement.

However, Hon. Penn said he understood that VI Airlink was denied the opportunity to have a ninety-nine (99) year lease of the space, and considering they were the only indigenous airline company in the Territory, Hon. Penn enquired as to why VI Air Link was denied the opportunity.

Additionally, Hon. Penn said he felt that it was disheartening given the company was incurring numerous costs, but building capacity in other jurisdictions and not locally, and asked for verification of the reports that were published in the media. The Leader of the Opposition also enquired whether any concessions were being offered to Company by the BVIAA to allow them to operate from their home base.

In response it was stated that the BVIAA Board was looking at the situation from a holistic perspective and was open to discussions with the airline given they were aware of the problems they had. It was also mentioned that it was early in the negotiations stage, but the Board was actively looking at ways to assist the local operator, and the negotiations will continue to ensure their survival.