Cabinet has approved a proposal to expand Barbuda International Airport as the Government prepares for further growth in tourism, visitor arrivals and investment on the sister island.

The decision forms part of a wider strategy to ensure that Antigua and Barbuda’s aviation infrastructure keeps pace with national development.

Cabinet said the continued development of the airport is essential to improving Barbuda’s connectivity and supporting the expansion of its tourism sector.

The Government also wants to ensure the facility can accommodate anticipated increases in passenger traffic and investment while meeting international requirements for safety, security and operational efficiency.

No projected cost, construction timetable or details of the proposed expansion were disclosed in the Cabinet report.

The approval was announced as new Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority CEO Kurt Menal presented his priorities for the country’s aviation sector to Cabinet.

Cabinet said future airport development in both Antigua and Barbuda must be carefully planned and driven by the growth of the destination.