Barbuda’s new international airport named after Arthur Nibbs and Sir Eric Burton

The International Airport on Barbuda has a new name- Burton-Nibbs International Airport..

After consulting with Barbuda residents and considering various suggestions for the airport’s name, the Cabinet has decided on these name.

“Cabinet considered the merits of the contribution of several distinguished sons of the soil (Barbuda) to include the late Claude Earl Francis and Sir Eric Burton; Hilborne Frank, Sir McChesney George, Arthur Nibbs and Trevor Walker, among many other well-respected “Barbudans” who have worked tirelessly in the interest of the residents (people) of Barbuda,” according to Cabinet sources.

At the end Sir Eric Burton and Arthur Nibbs were chosen

Reports are that, after thorough discussions, the Cabinet extensively evaluated the significant contributions of certain individuals to the development of the twin-island state.

Specifically, their impact on the socio-economic, cultural, and political aspects of Barbuda was considered.

As a result, it was determined that two individuals, Sir Eric Burton and Arthur Nibbs, played pivotal roles during the formation of the constitution of Antigua and Barbuda at Lancaster House in 1980.

Both individuals served as Members of Parliament representing Barbuda and made substantial contributions to the island’s political landscape and economic development as pioneering entrepreneurs and leaders.

Following careful consideration of the recommendations, the Cabinet has decided to honor their legacy by naming the new international airport in Barbuda as the Burton-Nibbs International Airport.

In 1984, when the ALP won all the seats on Antigua in the general elections, Sir Eric, who represented Barbuda in the Lower House, served as the Leader of the opposition in the House of Representatives.

On the other hand, Nibbs has spearheaded recent economic development initiatives on the island, contributing to its current prosperity.

These initiatives have enabled the Barbuda Council to achieve self-sufficiency for the first time through the taxes collected from ongoing projects on the island. Nibbs also played a noteworthy role in supporting the development of the airport, despite facing strong opposition from others.