Premier Andrew Fahie gave that indication during his budget address last week while noting that his government remains serious about its efforts towards making the BVI attractive as a hub for air travel in the region.

In preparation for additional traffic, the Premier said the BVI Airports Authority (BVIAA) is continuing works on improving the passenger experience through the T.B. Lettsome Airport.

According to the Premier, this will be done with the implementation of a Common Use System to accommodate more airlines, and X-ray machines that will improve screening quality and speed up processing times.

A few months ago, the Premier said talks were in progress between his government and American Airlines to enhance the BVI’s airlift capacity.

At the time, the Premier stated that one of the airline’s main concerns was landing on a wet runway at the Beef Island airport facility because of its relatively short length.

Meanwhile, the Premier further noted that service reliability has also been improved with the addition of two new fire appliances and the imminent installation of an upgraded tower console at the TB Lettsome Airport.

VG airport runway

In his address, Premier Fahie also said the BVIAA has teamed up with the RDA to have the runway on Virgin Gorda paved to help further improve safety margins and usability of the aerodrome.

The BVIAA, the Premier said, has completed resurfacing of the runway with the terrace, refurbished the pump on the fire appliance, and met with stakeholders including Air Safety Support International (ASSI).

“In a few weeks, we will see the reopening of the Taddy Bay Airport in Virgin Gorda. And yes, you will be able to fly in a turkey at the Taddy Bay, Virgin Gorda airport just in time for Thanksgiving,” Premier Fahie stated.

He expressed that the RDA and BVIAA will also be looking into the extension of the runway on the sister island.