​Aviation security personnel at V.C. Bird International Airport are being given greater professional recognition as the airport’s new Chief Executive Officer, Kurt Menal, places renewed emphasis on the critical role they play in protecting Antigua and Barbuda.

Menal, speaking in an exclusive interview with ABS News, said aviation security should not be viewed solely through the lens of protecting the airport, as the responsibilities of those officers extend to the wider security of the country.

He noted that the officers are now recognised as aviation security personnel, a designation he said is consistent with international best practices.

“What I want to do is to highlight them as a profession, highlight them as a body of people, that literally is responsible, not just for airport security but for national security,” Menal said.

His comments signal an effort to elevate the profile of aviation security personnel and ensure there is greater public understanding of the responsibilities they carry at the country’s main international gateway.

Aviation security personnel are responsible for maintaining security across key areas of airport operations, helping to protect passengers, employees, aircraft and airport facilities.

Menal believes their contribution goes beyond the boundaries of V.C. Bird International Airport. With the airport serving as one of Antigua and Barbuda’s principal points of entry, he believes the work of its security personnel forms an important part of the country’s overall security framework.

Menal recently took up the position of CEO at V.C. Bird International Airport.