The Nevis Island Administration plans to start the groundbreaking expansion project early in 2025 at Vance W. Amory International Airport.
Premier and Minister of Tourism of Nevis, Mark Brantley at a press conference, shared information stating that funding for the runway expansion project had been obtained through a funding mechanism with the Federal Government.
Premier Brantley further stated, “In terms of the financing on it, I am hopeful that by the time I get to the budget discussions, I’ll be able to announce concrete plans on the financing, but I can say that we are satisfied that we should be able to commence this project very early in 2025.”
He said, thanking the landowners for their cooperation that even if the project will be completed in phases, finances have been secured for the runway expansion that they call airside facilities, with the help of Prime Minister Dr. Terrance Drew in St Kitts for the land acquisition.
The details provided by Premier Brantley included that the expansion of the runway will extend in both directions – towards Nisbet Plantation and Hurricane Hill.
The runway will be extended on both sides to provide room for larger private and commercial aircraft.
Additionally, Premier Mark Brantley stated that the aircraft can take off directly beneath Hurricane Hill that will allow them to accommodate the Embraer Commercial aircraft that American Airlines now flies directly from Miami to Anguilla with all passengers on board.
He also said to keep in mind that private jet traffic is their private market. They are hoping that American Airlines will fly directly from Miami and that their airport will see an increase in regional traffic.
Under the direction of Perez Engineering Consulting Services Ltd., the extensive $37 million project also consists of the following:
- New parking facilities for private jets and a hangar
- Upgraded lighting and perimeter fencing
- A fuel farm to address the current unavailability of fuel at the airport
- Enhanced air traffic control tower and a new fire station
- Expanded terminal wings to better handle passenger traffic
- Resurfaced vehicle parking apron
Furthermore, according to the Environmental Impact Association (EIA), all construction related impacts including air quality, noise, waste, and hydrology are moderate, temporary, and reversible in the medium term.
In addition to having a major positive influence on the Island’s economy and its capacity to improve worldwide connectivity, Premier Mark Brantley has confirmed that the new airport will be an essential asset for Nevis.
