Minister Fernandez Hails Exceptional Performance of Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority During Historic CHOGM 2026

Minister of Tourism, Civil Aviation, Transportation and Investment, the Honourable H. Charles Fernandez, has extended his heartfelt congratulations and profound appreciation to the management, staff and stakeholders of the Antigua and Barbuda Airport Authority (ABAA) for their exceptional performance during Antigua and Barbuda's historic hosting of the Commonwealth Heads of Government Meeting (CHOGM) 2026.b

As the smallest nation to host this prestigious international gathering, Antigua and Barbuda welcomed hundreds of delegates, dignitaries, heads of government and other distinguished visitors from across the Commonwealth, placing the nation's aviation infrastructure, operational systems and airport personnel on an international stage.

According to Minister Fernandez, the performance of the Airport Authority throughout this demanding period was nothing short of exemplary.

"I want every member of the Airport Authority team, from those welcoming our guests in the terminals to those maintaining our facilities, securing our operations, coordinating aircraft movements and managing the complexities of international aviation, to know that your efforts have not gone unnoticed. You were among the first and last ambassadors of Antigua and Barbuda during CHOGM, and you represented our nation with tremendous distinction. I have received overwhelmingly positive reports from colleagues and visiting delegations who were genuinely impressed by the seamless coordination and exceptional service delivered at our airport," Minister Fernandez stated.

The Minister commended the collective efforts of airport management, customer service representatives, VIP and VVIP lounge personnel, immigration and customs officers, aviation security professionals, air traffic controllers, airport operations personnel, janitorial and maintenance teams, and all other supporting agencies whose coordinated efforts ensured the successful movement of passengers and aircraft throughout the CHOGM period.

"Often, when we speak of successful international events, the spotlight naturally falls on the ceremonies, the discussions and the distinguished personalities in attendance. But behind every successful arrival, every smooth departure and every positive first impression is an extraordinary team of professionals working diligently, often behind the scenes, to ensure that everything functions as it should."

Minister Fernandez also highlighted the significance of the recently completed runway rehabilitation works at the V.C. Bird International Airport, noting that the investment proved particularly timely in supporting the operational demands associated with the international gathering.

"The successful completion of our runway rehabilitation project was an important investment in the safety, reliability and future readiness of our aviation infrastructure. CHOGM provided a significant real-world test of that investment, as several aircraft arriving to facilitate the meeting required the enhanced runway capabilities now available to us. The successful accommodation of these aircraft further demonstrated the value of our continued investment in modernizing and strengthening our airport infrastructure."

The Minister further acknowledged the leadership of the ABAA Board of Directors and executive management, whose planning, oversight and coordination contributed to the successful execution of airport operations during this historic undertaking.

"As Minister with responsibility for Civil Aviation and the Airport, I take immense personal pride in what our aviation professionals have accomplished. Their performance is a powerful reminder that our greatest national asset remains our people: their competence, commitment, resilience and willingness to go above and beyond in service to their country."

Minister Fernandez concluded by encouraging the entire airport community to build upon the momentum and lessons of CHOGM 2026, ensuring that the standards demonstrated throughout the event continue to define Antigua and Barbuda's aviation sector.