Barbuda’s controversial new international airport is set to open in less than a month.
This comes after the government finally received approval from the Eastern Caribbean Civil Aviation Authority following a lengthy wait.
While the government has conveyed its elation, the news will not be welcomed by all.
Campaigners bitterly opposed to the facility’s construction took their fight all the way to the Privy Council in London earlier this year.
Environmentalists John Mussington and Jackie Frank secured a major victory in February when the country’s final appellate court ruled they had the right to sue the government. The duo launched legal action in 2018, claiming the airport – created to cater to wealthy visitors’ private jets – would be ecologically destructive.
The airport is a collaboration between central government and PLH developers.
The Privy Council held that developers had started work on the airport without proper planning permission and an environmental impact assessment, and had also failed to adequately consult local residents.
Mussington confirmed to Observer yesterday that the legal fight continues.
However, Information Minister Melford Nicholas told media on Thursday the facility would open on October 3.
The new airport represents a substantial investment, with the government reportedly spending over US$14 million on its development. A key feature is the 7,100ft runway, long enough to accommodate a wide range of aircraft, including most commercial airliners.
In preparation for the opening, comprehensive training programmes have been implemented for fire service personnel, airport staff, and other essential workers.
The transition to the new facility will be swift and coordinated. On the eve of October 2, the existing Codrington Airport will cease operations, making way for the Barbuda International Airport to accept inbound flights from the morning of October 3.
