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New Airport Master Plans To Chart Future Of Antigua And Barbuda’s Air Transport Sector

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New airport master plans to chart future of Antigua and Barbuda’s air transport sector
(L-R) V.C Bird International Airport and Burton-Nibbs International Airport

Long-term plans are being set in motion to shape the future of air travel into and out of Antigua and Barbuda, with approval granted for the development of new Airport Master Plans for the country’s two main airports.

The approval was granted by the Cabinet on Wednesday.

According to Maurice Merchant, the Director of Communications in the Office of the Prime Minister, the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) has now been cleared to move forward with a selective tendering process to engage experienced consultants to design comprehensive Master Plans for V. C. Bird International Airport and the Barbuda International Airport.

New airport master plans to chart future of Antigua and Barbuda’s air transport sector
Press Secretary Maurice Merchant (Photo by state media)

The move comes amid sustained growth in passenger numbers, air cargo activity, and expanded infrastructure, including the construction of a new terminal at V. C. Bird International Airport and the commissioning of the Barbuda International Airport.

The last Master Plan for V. C. Bird International Airport was completed in 2005 and has not been revisited since, despite these significant changes.

The new Master Planning exercise is expected to provide a clear roadmap for orderly expansion, modernisation, and sustainable development. It will include stakeholder consultations, assessments of existing facilities and infrastructure, aviation demand forecasting, environmental considerations, evaluation of development options, preparation of airport layout plans, and the creation of phased implementation strategies.

As part of the process, the ABAA will seek approval from the Procurement Board before issuing Requests for Proposals locally and internationally. Outreach will also be conducted through the Airports Council International (ACI) network to attract reputable and qualified aviation planning firms.

The initiative reflects a broader focus on strengthening national aviation infrastructure as a foundation for economic growth, tourism expansion, and improved international connectivity, positioning Antigua and Barbuda to remain competitive in a rapidly evolving global aviation landscape.

This story was first published by Antigua News on February 5, 2026: antigua.news/2026/02/05/new-airport-master-plans-to-chart-future-of-antigua-and-barbudas-air-transport-sector. © 2026 Antigua News. Republication without permission is not allowed.

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Shermain Bique-Charles

About the author

Shermain Bique-Charles is an accomplished journalist with over 24 years of dynamic experience in the industry. Renowned for her exceptional storytelling and investigative skills, she has garnered numerous awards that highlight her commitment to journalistic integrity and excellence. Her work not only informs but also inspires, making her a respected voice in the field.

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Comments (3)

  • Apex Jones February 5, 2026, 6:03 PM

    This is like chuck and cheese. Fix it please> If we want Barbuda to be on par with Antigua then they need the same level of development
    Reply

  • Informed citizen February 5, 2026, 11:57 PM

    People hear “master plan” and immediately think two things at once: finally… and we’ve heard this before. Because airports aren’t abstract ideas, they’re where delays happen, where tourists form their first impression, where locals feel either proud or embarrassed welcoming family home.
    Reply

  • Cattleya February 6, 2026, 1:16 AM

    Government of Antigua have been master planning for a long time that is all these people can do . After their grand master plan nothing ever works for long . Example Antigua airport. Elevator does not work, escalators does not work, no internet. ONLY GOD CAN HELP US.
    Reply

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