Sangster International Airport Unveils Extended Runway, Boosting Jamaica's Tourism

Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited, officially opened the newly extended 3,060-meter runway, expansion, boost, international, flights at Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Montego Bay, Jamaica on Thursday. The US$70 million project, which began in 2019 and was completed in 2023, included public road and utilities relocation, shoreline protection, and coastline restoration.

Why this matters: The extended runway has significant implications for Jamaica's economy, as it is expected to increase tourism revenue and create jobs across various sectors. This development also positions Jamaica as a regional aviation hub, enhancing its connectivity and competitiveness in the Caribbean region.

In his remarks at the opening ceremony, Munroe emphasized the significance of the project, stating, "Today we gather to celebrate the culmination of the SIA Runway Extension and Associated Works Project, a transformative endeavour that signifies our collective commitment to advancing aviation in Jamaica." He further highlighted the economic impact, noting, "The project is a catalyst for economic growth, particularly through land, sea, tourism, growth, boosts, projections, which is Jamaica's lifeblood."

Key Takeaways

• Shane Munroe, CEO of MBJ Airports Limited, opens extended 3,060-meter runway at Sangster International Airport (SIA) in Jamaica.
• The US$70 million project began in 2019 and was completed in 2023, including road and utilities relocation, shoreline protection, and coastline restoration.
• The extended runway is expected to increase tourism revenue and create jobs across various sectors.
• Jamaica is positioned as a regional aviation hub, enhancing its connectivity and competitiveness in the Caribbean region.
• The project is a catalyst for economic growth, particularly through tourism, which is Jamaica's main industry.