ST JOHN’S, Antigua, CMC—The new international airport in Barbuda will be named after two Barbudans: the late Sir Eric Burton and Arthur Nibbs. Both helped shape the political landscape and development of the twin-island nation.
The airport will be called the Burton-Nibbs International Airport.
The Cabinet said it entertained suggestions about the new name for the airport, which is set to be opened on October 3, following consultation with numerous residents.
The late Sir Claude Earl Francis, Sir Hilbourne Frank, Sir McChesney George, and Trevor Walker were among the other names listed, according to the Cabinet. They all “worked tirelessly in the interest of the people of Barbuda.”
During the discussions, the Cabinet said it critically examined the contributions to the development of Antigua and Barbuda, especially to the “socio-economic, cultural and political landscape of the island of Barbuda.”
“Throughout much of the world, our airports are named after important men and women held in very high regard by their citizens. But we looked back at what occurred in 1980 after a draft Constitution had been discussed in Antigua, a delegation of about 13 men and women set off for London and went to Lancaster House [in England] to discuss a Constitution that would serve the people of Antigua and Barbuda best,” said the Chief of Staff in the Prime Minister’s Office, Lionel Hurst.
“Among those who traveled to Lancaster House was Arthur Nibbs—who is both the youngest and only survivor of those 13 persons who went to Lancaster House in 1980,” Hurst said.
Sir Eric passed away in 2021 at the age of 90, having served as a former parliamentarian and leader of the opposition from 1984 to 1989.
In 2012, he was conferred the honor of Knight Commander of the Most Distinguished Order of the Nation for his service to politics, agriculture, and the fishing industry.
Sir Eric was known for his instrumental role in the development of Barbuda and his commitment to the two islands’ unified future.
Nibbs began his political career with the Barbuda Council in 1979, serving as its chairman from 1985 to 1987, 1997 to 2001, and 2013 to 2015.
The decision to build the airport has not been without controversy. Opposition and environmental groups have raised environmental concerns, even going to court to prevent its development.
Campaigners John Mussington and Jackie Frank won in February when the country’s final appellate court ruled they had the right to sue the government. Mussington confirmed to the Observer last week that the legal fight continues.
However, Hurst said that the government maintains that the opponents’ claims have been thoroughly investigated and found false.
According to Hurst, despite ongoing legal challenges, the government has remained committed to the airport project, viewing it as crucial for Barbuda’s economic development and integration with Antigua.
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